Elista, 25 June 2010
GM Vladimir Kramnik
Dear Vladimir,
On behalf of the FIDE Presidential Board, people of the Republic of Kalmykia and myself let me extend the most cordial greetings to you on the occasion of your 35th anniversary.
For me and an enormous army of your fans you are a symbol of integrity and loyalty, top professionalism and exceptional modesty. All these and other features of your character very naturally add to your outstanding sporting qualities, fantastic chess talent and sense of duty.
The people of Kalmykia nurture very warm recollections of your brilliant victory in the unification match. Here you have definitely found lots of fans for your multi-faceted activities and here you are always welcome as a guest.
On this remarkable day let me wish you first of all the best of health, further sportive victories, success in your creativity and all the best.
Please pass my congratulations to your family.
Yours truly
Kirsan Ilyumzhinov
FIDE President
Head of the Republic of Kalmykia
Kramnik is the true king/