OREANDA-NEWS. April 12, 2012. Dmitry Medvedev sent a message to the  space industry employees and veterans, congratulating them on Cosmonautics Day.

The message reads, in part:

“Russia’s space industry has a rich history and glorious traditions. Successful launches of the first artificial earth satellite, the legendary flight of Yury Gagarin and the space walk were all events of global significance.

In the 21st century, the exploration of the near-earth space is an significant resource for our state’s advancement. It is important to effectively use the results of space research to strengthen national defence, ensure technological modernisation of Russia’s industry, address environmental issues and improve the quality of life.

Today the industry is facing such ambitious challenges as playing an important part in humanity’s exploration of outer space. I am confident that Russian cosmonauts, engineers and specialists will do everything necessary to attain their goals.”