Rais of Tatarstan takes part in the ХVI Forum of Tatar religious leaders

On 16 May the Rais (Head) of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov, the Deputy Secretary General of the UN and the High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations Miguel Angel Moratinos took part in the in the plenary session of the ХVI Forum of Tatar religious leaders ”National Identity and Religion” held at the Kazan Expo Exhibition Center and moderated by the Deputy Prime Minister of the republic Vasil Shaykhraziev, who is the Chairman of the National Council of the World Tatar Congress.

The Forum is the largest event aimed at strengthening unity of Muslim clergy in Russia, exchange of experience and discussion of important issues of life of Islam in multinational country and this year it is held on 15-17 May with participation of 1000 delegates from 78 regions of Russia.

After speeches of Tatarstan, Belarus and Russian Muslim leaders, Miguel Angel Moratinos thanked for having invited him to the Forum and said: “I would like to note that there is no Islamophobia in Russia. Islam is widespread here, millions of residents confess it. In the whole representatives of various peoples and religions live in peace and concord in Russia. Alas, this unity cannot be seen in all countries.”

In his turn, welcoming participants of the Forum, Rustam Minnikhanov emphasized that imams and muftis make a huge contribution into preservation of the Tatars, the native language and traditions working closely with the World Tatar Congress.

The Rais of Tatarstan noted the importance of preaching the true values ​​of Islam. “Such meetings are very necessary to maintain a dialogue and discuss issues of concern to everyone. It is very important to hear each other and find the common language – this is the main value,” he said and handed in state awards of Tatarstan.

In his turn Rustam Minnikhanov was awarded a medal “For merits to Donbass Umma”.