Rustam Minnikhanov: The diversity of languages, traditions and cultures is our invaluable wealth, with Russian language being a common thread

On June 6, at the Jalil Tatar Academic State Opera and Ballet Theatre, Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov took part in events dedicated to the Russian Language Day and the 218th anniversary of the birth of the Great Russian poet Alexander Pushkin.

Delivering his welcoming speech, Minnikhanov congratulated everyone on the Day of Russian Language and on the birthday of Alexander Pushkin. According to him, this holiday is always celebrated by all the peoples of our multinational country.

There are state programmes and a lot of cultural projects aimed at developing Russian language in Tatarstan, Minnikhanov noted. Festivals that help preserve good traditions and pass on experience to new generations have a special place in the republic, he continued.

"The Russian National Cultural Association of Tatarstan is playing a significant role in preserving and developing Russian language. Today, at a meeting with its activists, we summed up the results of joint activities and set up tasks for the future. Serious proposals were made both for the development of the basic school and the club - a place our creative teams could join. All these projects will be supported by the leadership of the republic,” Minnikhanov said.

Tatarstan President also reminded that representatives of the republic are members of consultative and coordinating agencies of the country on the development of Russian language.

"The diversity of languages, traditions and cultures is our invaluable wealth, with Russian language being a common thread. I thank everyone who is involved in its development, preservation and multiplication - teachers, cultural and scientific figures, public organizations, spiritual leaders, public enthusiasts,” Minnikhanov said. He wished everyone creative inspiration, success and well-being.

Then, a ceremony of handing over state awards of the Republic of Tatarstan, including medals "For Valorous Labor", was held.

Tatarstan State Counsellor Mintimer Shaimiev, Chairman of Tatarstan State Council Farid Mukhametshin, Chief of Staff of Tatarstan President’s Administration Asgat Safarov, heads of ministries and agencies, representatives of public organizations took part in the celebration of the Russian Language Day and the 218th anniversary of Pushkin's birth.