"Russia was one of the first [countries] to recognize Israel's independence, while Russian-Israeli relations have always been based on a solid foundation of mutual historic and cultural ties," the message said.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the creation of the state of Israel and is preceded by Remembrance Day, when Israelis honor their 22,437 dead soldiers and civilians, who died fighting in the country's many wars, terrorist attacks and in the struggle for independence.
Israel calculates the victims from 1860, when Jews first began immigrating to the region in the modern sense.
The Russian president, who was sworn in on May 7, also said, "I hope for further close and constructive cooperation with you in the interests of strengthening bilateral relations and establishing universal peace and security in the Middle East."
Israel declared independence May 14, 1948, but marks the day according to the Jewish calendar.
