Prime Minister Vladimir Putin congratulates space industry employees on Space Exploration Day
The message reads, in part:
"The space industry is rightly considered one of the essential, strategically important branches of the Russian economy, which is a fundamental government priority. We are proud that it was our country that opened space up for mankind and made great strides in the history of space exploration.
Over the years, generations of scientists, engineers and highly-qualified professionals have created a powerful manufacturing and technological basis, which serves to strengthen Russia's industrial potential, providing defense capacity and supporting national security.
I believe that using your collective experience, knowledge and outstanding professional tradition, you will continue to make a worthy contribution to solving the problems faced by your sector, to the country's innovative development and towards boosting its competitiveness".
