Rustam Minnikhanov hands in the Duslyk Order to athlete Marta Zainullina

On April 4, at the Governor’s Palace in the Kazan Kremlin, Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov handed in the state award of the Republic of Tatarstan – the Duslyk Order to the Honored Master of Sports of Russia, the silver and two-time bronze medalist of the 2018 Winter Paralympics in Pyeongchang Marta Zainullina.

Welcoming the participants of the ceremony, Minnikhanov reminded that the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games were held in a complicated political situation. "I understand the state of our team, our athletes and coaches, when they were banned to compete under the national flag and anthem of our country," Minnikhanov said. "Nevertheless, our athletes were strong in spirit. They managed to prove that they are able to overcome all these obstacles."

Minnikhanov expressed his sincere gratitude to Marta Zainullina, her coaches and all those who supported the athlete - her family and friends, for her heroism and diligence, for her victory.

"Your victory is a solid contribution to the victory of the country. You showed skill, unbending faith and ambition. We are proud of your success. That was a huge effort," Minnikhanov said to the athlete.

He noted that the Paralympic movement has great prospects, and it is important to involve the maximum number of people in this process to contribute to their socialization. "The authorities should provide overall support in this regard," Tatarstan President underlined.

Minnikhanov once again congratulated Marta Zainullina on her victory and wished her further success both in sports and in her personal  life.

The athlete was awarded the Duslyk Order for achieving high sports results at the 12th Winter Paralympic Games in Pyeongchang.

In her turn, Zainullina thanked everyone for their support. I am grateful to Tatarstan and all Tatarstan citizens for their support and for believing in me, she said.

"At such moments it is really very important to know that a strong state supports you," Zainullina said.

State awards were also handed in to Marta Zainullina’s coaches.