Address from Rais of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of reunification of the Crimea and Sevastopol with Russia

“Dear friends!

Today we are celebrating the 10th anniversary of a historical event - the signing of an agreement from the 18th March 2012 about the Crimea joining the Russian Federation and establishment of two new entities of our country.

The solemn ceremony in Moscow was preceded by an announcement of a free will of residents of the semi-peninsular – the All-Crimea referendum on 16 March 2014 where residents of the Crimea and Sevastopol made their historical and life-changing choice in favour of their future together with Russia.

As our national leader Vladimir Putin states the Crimea is a gem of Russia.

Taking into consideration long-term brotherly relations of our people, Tatarstan and the Republic of Crimea have signed an agreement on trade-economic, scientific-technical, social and cultural cooperation. We have developed close relations with Bakhchisaray region and there is a permanent representative office of Tatarstan in the Crimea and the City of Sevastopol.”

“Under conditions of the special military operation residents of the Crimea and Sevastopol courageously and unflinchingly defend their native land from military hazards. Thousands of residents of Tatarstan fight together with them for the future of our Fatherland.

Events of the “Crimea spring” have caused an unprecedented patriotic response from residents and admiration with bravery and resoluteness of residents of the semi peninsular due to which we are a one big family today,” Rustam Minnikhanov wrote and in conclusion congratulated residents of Tatarstan with the holiday of the 10th anniversary of reunification of the Crimea and Sevastopol with Russia.