The message reads, in part:
“Interregional ties are an important part of relations between our states. Symbolically, the delegations of 15 Russian regions and 10 Japanese prefectures have taken part in the events of the current Year of Russia in Japan and the Year of Japan in Russia alone.
Representatives of not only local governments but also of business and public circles, academic figures, cultural workers and educators are increasingly cooperating in this format. They are carrying out dozens of joint projects in the socioeconomic, scientific and technical, humanitarian and other areas.
I hope the members of the Council will hold detailed and constructive discussions, exchange practical experience and map out new, promising forms and mechanisms of interregional cooperation, This will certainly further promote friendship and understanding between the peoples of Russia and Japan.”