Greeting to participants of the Cosmonautics Day gala event

The President's message reads, in part:

"This remarkable holiday is celebrated not only by those working in the rocket and space industry - researchers, designers, cosmonauts, engineers, other specialists, and military personnel. It is held dear by every generation of Russian citizens. We are sincerely proud that it was our compatriot, Yuri Gagarin, who, 65 years ago, turned humanity's bold and daring dream of conquering the Universe into reality and paved the way to the stars. That legendary launch opened a new chapter in the history of civilisation and became one of the most striking and unforgettable events of the 20th century.

Today, the industry is growing at a dynamic pace. Our launch vehicles and spacecraft ensure the reliable operation of the International Space Station, orbital infrastructure is being improved, the satellite constellation is expanding, and new promising systems are being created. Russia's space capabilities are making an ever-greater contribution to the economy and the quality of life, as well as to the security and sovereignty of the nation.

It is wonderful that Cosmonautics Day is always widely celebrated across our country. A rich and exciting programme was prepared for this anniversary. The first ever Space Week took place, featuring a Space Forum, a Youth Space Engineering Congress, an All-Russian Space Dictation, and other meaningful scientific, educational, outreach, creative, and sporting events, all of which sparked keen interest among people of all ages and backgrounds: young people, teenagers, children, and entire families.

I am confident that large-scale, high-demand initiatives like Space Week undoubtedly help to spread knowledge about the exploration of the Universe and the pioneering heroes behind it, while also raising the prestige of professions linked to the rocket and space industry."