The prime minister's greeting reads, in part:
"This year marks the 200th birthday of Nikolai Pirogov, our renowned countryman, an avid patriot, a widely educated and gifted man, a true educator and enthusiast, and a highly talented and legendary doctor who deserves the highest praise for his massive contribution to the establishment and development of medical science's priority fields and domestic healthcare system.
Nikolai Pirogov is justly considered a founder of military field surgery. His competence, dedication, and personal courage greatly contributed to introducing the medical aid practices still in use today.
I am confident that the present generation of doctors will cherish and foster the great traditions of Russian medicine that he set forth.
I wish all gala attendees and professional award nominees success in their professional activities and the best of luck."