The past five years, which incidentally were the period of your tenure, were difficult and extremely challenging for our country. It is, without any exaggeration, one of the decisive stages in our Fatherland's history, when the very fate, the future of our people is at stake, — and it really is not an exaggeration, — and when the contours of a new world order are being shaped in a struggle and intense competition.

I would like to thank you for efficient cooperation, above all in strengthening Russia's sovereignty and protecting the country's national interests.