The message reads:

Friends,

This is the first time that we are celebrating the Day of the Russian Parliamentary System. The Russian State Duma first opened on April 27, 1906. This was a major step forward in the development of our country.

The modern parliamentary system was born in difficult and occasionally dramatic circumstances. The foundations of the Federal Assembly – the parliament of the Russian Federation - are enshrined in the new Constitution, the 20th anniversary of which we will celebrate this year as well. Importantly, a full-fledged legislature was formed, and we have gained vast experience in lawmaking. We are on the path to becoming a law-based democratic state.

Today, the Federation Council and the State Duma play a key role in the development of society and the state. The constructive cooperation between the executive and legislative branches allow us to meet our economic and social challenges. It’s a guarantee of political stability and social harmony.

I am convinced that the parliamentary tradition of dialogue is essential so as to consolidate various political forces and jointly resolve our most pressing problems. Respect for the law and the legislator is the most effective tool for protecting the rights and interests of the people.

I wish our parliament members every success and all the best.

Dmitry Medvedev