With more than 23,000 people in the country losing their lives every year to alcohol poisoning, along with some half a million fatalities due to related diseases, crimes and accidents, the Russian government has launched a campaign to lower alcohol consumption 50% by 2020.

The national plan, supported by both Russian President Dimitry Medvedev and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, includes advertising restrictions, pricing changes, stricter measures for sales violations, elimination of the illegal alcohol market and general promotion of a healthier lifestyle.

You have our heartfelt and respectful thanks, Your Excellencies, for your commitment to safeguarding the lives of fellow citizens. Blessed be such initiatives in restoring the vitality and happiness of the beautiful Russian people across the land.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/8432271.stm
http://en.rian.ru/russia/20100113/157537462.html  
http://www.upi.com/Top_News/International/2010/01/14/Russia-to-curb-alcohol-abuse/UPI-32361263472599/  
http://rt.com/prime-time/2010-01-14/crackdown-russias-love-booze.html