Dear friends

Today we would have followed our good and longstanding tradition to celebrate together Russia's National Day.

However, to our deep regret, we are not able to do it. The reason is coronavirus. The disease has spread worldwide bringing suffer and sorrow to millions of people from different countries. We are sure that all the nations will overcome this calamity of the XXI century and we will soon return to normal, when we can afford to communicate personally, visit each other and take part in all the cultural events.

It is noteworthy that this year we are also celebrating the 75th Anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. I would like to use the occasion to congratulate the veterans of the Arctic Convoys, who made their contribution to our common Victory. Unfortunately, time is relentless and some of our friends are no longer with us. Andrew Ramsay, Arthur Southhall, Edgar Allan, Bob Miller and others will always be remembered.

Let the coming days bring us new expectations and opportunities to develop the links between our countries. The Russian-Scottish cooperation is built on people-to-people contacts, being preserved and enhanced regardless of any political environment.

I would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who enthusiastically contributes to promote friendship between our countries.

Dear compatriots, dear friends, let me wish you a Happy Russia's Day!