Rustam Minnikhanov: Archives are a strategic resource of any state

On November 21, speaking at a solemn concert dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the regional Archive Agency, Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov said that archives are a strategic resource of any state.  Head of the Federal Archive Agency Andrei Artizov took part in the event.

Before the solemn ceremony, the honoured guests visited the exhibition dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the State Archive Agency of the Republic of Tatarstan, which includes collected photographs and documents on the history of the agency in the republic.

“Archivists do very important work by restoring the link of times and carefully preserving the documentary heritage of the people,” Minnikhanov emphasized in his speech.

He noted that much attention is paid to archive industry in the republic. In particular, the state programme “The Development of Archival Affairs in Tatarstan for 2016–2020” is underway the third year. Work is in progress to repair archival storage facilities and to improve archival departments. Achievements have been made in the field of computerization of this sphere, Minnikhanov went on to say. 

“It is important to remember that archives are an institution of collective memory. Losing them, that is, its past, any nation loses a lot in the future. I am sure that archivists of Tatarstan will continue to carefully fulfill their mission and preserve the documentary heritage. Your hard work inspires great respect,” Tatarstan President said.

In conclusion, Minnikhanov handed in awards to winners of regional contests. Ministry of Forestry of the republic won the first place in the contest “The Best Archives Office of a Non-Profit Organization”, while the Power Grid Company has the best archives office among commercial organizations.