OREANDA-NEWS. January 21, 2009. Vladimir Putin sent a message congratulating the delegates and guests of the international Clean Water conference.
The message said, in part:

"You will discuss a wide range of issues regarding the formulation of state and international policies in the water supply sector and their implementation, streamlining legislation in this vital sphere and improving global water quality. Symbolically, Moscow is hosting your forum while involving the leaders of state-power institutions, representatives of international organisations, the business community, influential specialists and analysts from Russia and other states because this country abounds in freshwater resources which have global implications. We must do our best to preserve and expand our natural resources and frugally use this invaluable gift of Mother Nature for the benefit of Russia and its citizens.

"I hope that the forum will find far-reaching results and will facilitate the creation of effective mechanisms for coordinating professional activity, information and positive experience exchanges. I wish you successful and fruitful work."