Address of Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov on the occasion of the celebration of the Russian Language Day and the 221st anniversary of the birth of Alexander Pushkin

Dear citizens of Tatarstan!

From the bottom of my heart I congratulate you on the Russian Language Day, a wonderful holiday, dedicated to the birthday of the genius of Russian literature Alexander Pushkin.

The Russian language, the state language of the Russian Federation, has historically played a core role in the establishment of the common civilizational space of our multinational power. Through centuries of interaction with the Turkic, Finno-Ugric and other languages of the indigenous peoples of Russia, it absorbed a bright, unique palette of structures and meanings, becoming the language of cultural dialogue and interethnic communication.

Pushkin, who raised Russian to the unattainable literary heights, described it as “flexible and powerful in its turn and means” and “open and sociable in its relations to foreign languages.” Keeping up with the times, the Russian language remains faithful to its unifying cultural and educational mission today, rightfully being one of the world languages.

Pushkin's creative work had a strong influence on many prominent representatives of national cultures, and revealed to the peoples of Russia the true wealth and diversity of the Russian language. The classic of Tatar literature Gabdulla Tukay considered Pushkin one of his teachers. In the poem «Pushkin» he wrote «My soul does not know darkness: you bring life into it as the sun lights up the peace, so your poems light up the soul!».

Traditionally, Tatarstan pays great attention to teaching Russian.

The Russian National Cultural Association of the republic and numerous enthusiasts, teachers, cultural and art workers are making a significant contribution to the preservation and development of language, culture and traditions.

This year, taking into account the epidemiological situation, events dedicated to the holiday will be held online. I am sure that this will not affect the positive attitude that is traditionally inherent in the Tatarstan people, our love of a living poetic word, our desire for beautiful, new knowledge and friendly communication. An example in this regard is Pushkin himself, whose forced stay in quarantine in the village of Boldino became the most fruitful period of his immortal work.

I sincerely wish you to celebrate the Russian Language Day with pleasure and benefit! I wish you happiness, peace, kindness and well-being!

Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov