The message reads, in part:
“The institution of local self-government has a rich history in our country, which began on April 21, 1785, with the signing of the Charter of the Cities by Catherine the Great.
In modern Russia, local government authorities are entrusted with an important and responsible mission. Their efficient and coordinated work largely determines the improvement of social infrastructure in our cities, the development of rural areas, and the resolution of the most common, everyday problems faced by our citizens. In this regard we rely on you – the workers at all levels of municipal government – to demonstrate your professionalism, sensitivity, and concern, as well as your sincere desire to improve the lives of our fellow countrymen for the better. Moreover, it is important to actively support meaningful public initiatives and create conditions for people's participation in identifying the priorities for the development of their hometowns and communities, as well as the implementation of projects and programmes.”