The message of congratulations reads, in part:
“The launch of the first earth satellite was a truly historic event and marked the beginning of the space age. And we are rightly proud that our country showed humanity the way to reach the stars. Over the past few decades several generations of scientists, designers and specialists have successfully implemented truly revolutionary projects, as well as created new competitive space and strategic missile systems.
We are glad to see that the current generation of space industry employees upholds and continues in the remarkable tradition of their predecessors, and has made a meaningful
contribution to exploring space, strengthening the country’s defense capabilities, and promoting international cooperation in this field.”