The message reads, in part:
“This day brings together everyone who has dedicated their lives to this difficult, tense, but very important cause, for the people and the country alike – to protect people’s legitimate interests, constitutional rights and freedoms, to strengthen Russia’s statehood. Your work is greatly needed in all areas of our life. It is impossible to even imagine the modern economic or political processes, the operation of enterprises, businesses, public services and public organisations without legal support and counselling.
Your qualities such as honesty, responsibility, integrity and, of course, wide expertise in legislation are highly valued in any industry, and your ability to apply it in practice, based on the principles of morality and justice, is of the essence. This combination of professionalism and moral duty distinguishes the absolute majority of Russian lawyers and testifies to your firm adherence to the rule of law and the traditions of Russian jurisprudence established during the 19th century judicial reform. The legal and civil service veterans who have made a significant contribution to improving the work of Russia’s justice bodies and institutions deserve special words of gratitude.
I believe the legal community’s priorities are to be at the forefront of the development and establishment of the rule of law, and to be active in improving our citizens’ legal culture. Your role in this highly important awareness-raising activity is even more in demand now, after the adoption of amendments to the Russian Constitution.”