The message reads, in part:
“Greetings to the participants, organisers and guests of the forum, which is timed to coincide with the 1100th anniversary of the baptism of Alania, an important landmark in the history of the North Caucasus regions and the entire country.
Christianity became a powerful creative and consolidating force for the peoples of ancient Alania and had a tremendous impact on the emergence and establishment of the written language, unique traditions and customs. It contributed to the formation of high spiritual and moral ideals and values which have been carefully passed on from one generation to another.
Let me stress that about 200 ethnicities have been living in peace in Russia for centuries. Their languages, religion and way of life comprise a cultural and ethnic diversity and true wealth of our country which we sincerely cherish and are proud of.
I believe that your forum, which gathered together renowned politicians, researchers, representatives of religious associations and the media, will be held in a creative and constructive vein and will be remembered for its substantive discussions and fruitful exchange of views, and its decisions will contribute to the preservation of our unparalleled historical, cultural and spiritual heritage.”