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The message said:

“On the threshold of the third millennium, St Petersburg, Russia’s ‘northern capital’, has become the hockey capital of the world. Millions of fans in different countries are closely watching developments in Russia.

“It may be symbolic that the last world ice hockey championship of the 20th century is taking place in Russia, where such big-league hockey players as Vsevolod Bobrov, Valery Kharlamov, Vladislav Tretyak, the Mayorov brothers and many others were born. Many Russians still consider hockey as one of their favourite sports. Ice hockey, a game for real men, breeds such qualities as self-control, endurance, courage and teamwork.

“I am convinced that the championship in St Petersburg will once again feature beautiful games and overwhelming victories and will thrill spectators with exciting moments.”