Greetings to the participants in the ceremony marking Yury Luzhkov’s 90th birth anniversary

The message reads, in part:

“Yury Luzhkov became Mayor of Moscow, a city of millions, in the early 1990s, at a time of sweeping reforms. He had a keen understanding of the challenges of the time and assembled a capable management team, directing its efforts towards ambitious goals for the city’s development. Yury Luzhkov knew Moscow inside out. He regularly visited factories, research centres, universities, theatres, schools, outpatient clinics and construction sites, inspiring those around him with fresh ideas and inexhaustible energy. He set an example of dedicated service to Moscow, its residents and Russia as a whole. A scientist, engineer and builder by education, experience and inclination, he had a remarkable ability to get to the heart of complex problems and set clear priorities. This helped him achieve outstanding results. Among his accomplishments were a carefully designed social policy focused on supporting pensioners, veterans and people with disabilities; the extensive reconstruction of the Moscow Ring Road, the construction of the Third Transport Ring and other essential infrastructure; the creation of Victory Park on Poklonnaya Hill; and the restoration of revered landmarks, including the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Kazan Cathedral and the Iveron Gate on Red Square.

Yury Luzhkov was a defender of our traditional and historical values. He stood by the sailors of the Black Sea Fleet and the people of Crimea and Sevastopol. In these and many other events, he demonstrated his deep patriotism and devotion to his country. I am confident that Moscow will continue to thrive, building, among other things, on the strong traditions established by Yury Luzhkov.”