The message reads, in part:

"Drawing on the glorious traditions of diplomatic service, Russian diplomacy deals with important tasks of strengthening the international prestige of our country, ensuring beneficial conditions for long-term development and modernisation of the national economy, promoting integration within the Customs Union and the common economic space. This work requires exceptional competence, professionalism and responsibility. It is important as never before in the complicated and rapidly changing modern world.

"I expect that the Foreign Ministry will be even more supportive of Russian companies and organisations operating internationally and their large-scale economic and investment projects. Efficient measures must be taken in due course to protect the rights of Russian nationals abroad, and to promote the Russian language and culture.

"I am confident that the Russian diplomatic service, the diplomatic and consular missions will continue to make every effort to expand mutually rewarding collaboration with its partners across the globe."