Rustam Minnikhanov: The Russian language unites people and builds bridges of understanding between the peoples of our country

On June 6, at the Jalil Tatar Academic State Opera and Ballet Theatre, Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov, State Counsellor of the republic Mintimer Shaimiev and other officials took part in event dedicated to the Russian Language Day and the 219th anniversary of the birth of the Great Russian poet Alexander Pushkin.

People's artists of the USSR, famous film and theatre actor, a public person Vasily Lanovoy opened the concert. He congratulated the audience on the Russian Language Day and read one of the poems of great Pushkin.

Delivering his welcoming speech, Minnikhanov congratulated everyone on the Day of the Russian Language.

“Today, we particularly emphasize an important role of the Russian language, that unites many people and builds bridges of understanding between the peoples of our vast country. The Russian language and the Russian literature for many people are first of all associated with the name of Pushkin. From a young age, having absorbed the high moral values of the Russian people, he praised them in his works and opened it to the whole world. Pushkin's heritage by right is one of the treasures of world literature and the property of the entire Russian people.

The greatest writer and thinker Leo Tolstoy made invaluable contribution to the development of Russian world culture. Period of his life in Kazan played a role in the development of his character and worldview formation. We highly appreciate the heritage of the great writer and humanist, therefore, 2018 was declared the Year of Leo Tolstoy in Tatarstan,” Minnikhanov said.

Tatarstan President handed in state awards of the Republic of Tatarstan, including medals “For Valorous Labor”, “Honoured Artist of the Republic of Tatarstan” and others to the artists, public figures and Russian language and literature teachers.