The Head of the Russian Imperial House, H.I.H. Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna, sent her congratulations to the newly elected mayor of St. Petersburg, Valentina Ivanovna Matvienko, on her victory in the elections

Madrid, 6 October 2003 

To Valentina Ivanovna Matvienko,
Mayor of St. Petersburg 

Dear Valentina Ivanovna!

With all my heart, I congratulate You on Your election to the post of mayor of St. Petersburg. The northern capital of Russia has always been especially dear to me, to my August Mother, Grand Duchess Leonida Georgievna, and to my Son and Heir Grand Duke Georgii Mikhailovich. We are very glad for Your success and we wish You God’s help in Your service to the Fatherland in Your new and important post.

I assure You, dear Valentina Ivanovna, of my most genuine affection. 

H.I.H. Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna