Address from the Rais (Head) of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov on the occasion of the Day of Defenders of Fatherland

On 23 February in his address dedicated to the Day of Defenders of Fatherland, the Rais (Head) of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov congratulated the military, veterans and the residents of the republic with the holiday and said:

“This memorial date symbolizes courage, resilience and selflessness of our soldiers, their loyalty to the Motherland and responsibility for its destiny, traditions of military art and the history of glorious victories.

On 23 February we commend veterans of the WWII, military actions and all those who fulfilled and are fulfilling their military duties in the Army and the Navy, border and National Guards troops and special task forces.

We address special words of thanks to those who are right now at the fore front as, being heirs of the generations of winners, thousands of residents of the republic show their heroism and courage ensuring safety of the country and the current and next generations. We are proud of our compatriots and believe in victory!

Our sacred duty is always to remember those who were killed in action protecting their people and Fatherland. We will always remember their feat, which will be in hearts of their near and dear ones.

May the Day of the Defenders of Fatherland be a bright manifestation of the unity of the society around our defenders, a reminder that together we can overcome any hardships.”

In conclusion the Rais of the republic wished everyone good health, achievements in noble deeds and prosperity to their families.