The message reads, in part:
“I know that this congress is being held on the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the national oncology service. Thanks to the selfless and compassionate work of the many generations of scientists, clinical physicians, medical nurses and healthcare organisers, over the years, your service has come a long way. Its progress has been marked by remarkable discoveries and scientific achievements, evolving from the first specialised dispensaries to a high-tech multilevel system for diagnosing and treating oncological diseases that meets international standards.
It is gratifying that you carefully preserve and enrich the unique creative heritage of your predecessors and are wholeheartedly devoted to your profession. Of course, the traditional forums that bring together representatives of the medical community from various Russian regions and foreign states make a major contribution to the development of the priority healthcare spheres. These business-like and comradely events, with their ambitious agendas, provide a valuable venue for exchanging experience and best practices, discussing current healthcare issues and outlining new prospects for partnership.
I am confident that your congress will be held in a constructive atmosphere, and that its recommendations will facilitate the effective achievement of your current professional goals.”