The message reads, in part:
“Your forum plays an important role in the cultural and social life of both countries, and provides a good opportunity for an informal, constructive dialogue on many issues of our neighbourly relations.
This year, the forum agenda is as always comprehensive and diverse. The current issues of the development of cross-border tourism and the expansion of cultural exchanges are the focus of attention. In addition, the participants will also discuss prospects for interaction of Russian and Finnish researchers in studying our common history and the rich religious heritage of both countries.
I am confident that your discussions will be interesting and productive, and will facilitate the further development of bilateral people-to-people ties, as well as strengthening of friendship, mutual understanding and trust between the peoples of Russia and Finland.”