President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Graduates, friends,
I wholeheartedly congratulate you, your families, and your mentors on this special, unique, and deeply moving occasion.
You are bidding farewell to school and stepping into a new, uncharted chapter of life. Together with your friends, you are dreaming and making plans – about who to become and what heights to attain.
The path to these goals will demand perseverance, a readiness to work for results, and a sense of responsibility. I have no doubt that you possess these qualities and will unquestionably realise your dreams.
The most important thing is to believe in yourself and to remember: any personal success acquires special meaning when your work benefits others and serves your Homeland.
Today, I am certain, you are expressing sincere, heartfelt words of gratitude to your teachers. Now, as your school years are behind you, you understand just how much they have done for you. Day after day, from the moment you first crossed the school threshold, they strove to impart the knowledge essential in today’s world. They rejoiced in your victories and achievements and offered support when things were difficult. Their advice, guidance, and generosity of spirit will always be remembered with warmth and gratitude, and you will return to your alma mater more than once.
I wish each of you, the graduates, to find and fulfil your calling – a profession in which you can fully unlock your abilities and talents.
To this end, before you – as before all young people in our country – lie the broadest opportunities today. This enables you to better understand your purpose, make the right choice, and find a profession that truly resonates with you.
Naturally, it is very important to find like-minded people and to see inspiring examples in others – those around you, including young individuals, almost your peers, who are already contributing to our nation’s strength, enriching its finest traditions, and safeguarding its true values and national interests.
Once more, I congratulate everyone on this milestone. Advance with courage, set yourselves ambitious, far-reaching goals. Your loved ones, your mentors, and our Russian state will always support you in your endeavours, so that you may take pride in our country, and our country may take pride in you.
Wishing you success. Good luck!