Rustam Minnikhanov takes part in the 10th All Russia Forum of Tatar Religious Figures

On June 14, at the Kazan Expo International Exhibition Centre, Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov took part in a plenary meeting of the 10th All Russia Forum of Tatar Religious Figures.

“In 922, our ancestors accepted Islam in the Ancient town of Bolgar, which predetermined the further development of our people. For over a thousand years, the Tatar people have been an important part of the Muslim world, contributing to the development of multinational Russia, and helping to strengthen our common statehood, cultural and spiritual traditions,” Minnikhanov said in his welcoming speech.

He noted that Islam has had an important place in the national identity of the Tatars for many centuries. “Despite all the difficulties, we are always confidently moving forward. Islam has been the main force of our national revival. In this regard, it is especially important to study and develop Tatar theological thought. However, there are no scientists and theologians of such level as Mardzhani, Barudi, Musa Bigiyev, Kursavi,” Tatarstan President said.

He reminded that last year the republic celebrated the 200th anniversary of the birth of the outstanding Tatar thinker and theologian Shigabutdin Mardzhani. Minnikhanov expressed his confidence that new outstanding theologians and scholars will appear among the Tatars. “We are putting hope on the newly opened Bolgar Islamic Academy. Russian President Vladimir Putin has actively contributed to its establishment. Already this year, the first doctors of Islamic theology will graduate the Academy” Tatarstan President continued.

Minnikhanov emphasized that graduates of the academy should be able to use their knowledge and help strengthen the traditional foundations of the Muslim Ummah. Russian imams play a big role in this. The plans set can be implemented only through the joint efforts, Tatarstan President emphasized.