The message of greetings reads, in part:
"Please accept my sincere congratulations and best wishes on your 75th birthday.
"You are justifiably called the successor of the great traditions of Fyodor Shalyapin. Your unique vocal and artistic abilities and amazing stamina have allowed you to create an immense repertoire that includes about 80 parts in various languages though your most loved role is certainly Boris Godunov.
"You have devoted over 30 years to the Bolshoi Theatre and have given many guest performances on the world's most renowned stages.
"A talented person, you have also achieved success as a teacher. Your students are leading professionals in the most famous theatres in Russia, Europe and America.
"Allow me to wish you the best of health, success and happiness."