Mr Putin’s message to the Belarusian President reads, in particular:
“We greatly value the friendly nature of the relations between our countries, and the spirit of mutual respect and equal partnership. I am confident that through our joint efforts we can continue our road towards closer cooperation and integration in the interests of rapid social and economic development in both countries and the improvement and strengthening of their democratic institutions. We have a reliable guarantee in the form of the friendship between our peoples, a friendship that has continued through the centuries and withstood the harshest tests of time”.
In his greetings to the participants in the meeting marking the Day of Unity of the Peoples of Russia and Belarus, Mr Putin said:
“This is a symbolic date that affirms the unity between our fraternal peoples and their desire to continue strengthening their cooperation, which is founded upon centuries-old traditions of friendship and close cultural and spiritual ties.
It is in our common interest to consistently implement a pragmatic policy of deepening our integration in all areas and continuing to consolidate the economic foundation of our relations. We place particular importance in this context on increasing our cooperation in the social and humanitarian spheres, in defence and security, and international affairs. I am sure that this approach will help to strengthen the democratic foundations of our statehood and contribute to the prosperity of our countries’ citizens.
I wish you success, prosperity and all the very best”.