The message reads:

Dear Mr Fetisov,

Accept my congratulations on your 55th birthday.

Millions of fans in Russia and elsewhere know you as a talented athlete and the legendary captain of the USSR team, with which you won the highest world ice-hockey titles.

Your strong character, team spirit and responsible attitude towards business have helped you achieve success both as a coach and a civil servant. Today, you are doing a lot to develop physical fitness and sport in this country and to promote healthy lifestyle values.

I wish you success, prosperity and all the best.

Dmitry Medvedev