Rustam Minnikhanov takes part in the Izge Bolgar Zhyene Holiday

On 17 May the Rais (Head) of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov took part in a ceremony of opening the Izge Bolgar Zhyene Holiday held in the Ancient City of Bolgar and dedicated to the Day when Volga Bulgaria officially adopted Islam in 922, which plaid a decisive role in the diplomatic recognition of Volga Bulgaria and expanded the borders of the Islamic world to the Middle Volga.

Speaking at the ceremony, Rustam Minnikhanov stated that these days the capital of the republic hosted the 17th International Economic Forum “Russia-the Islamic world: KazanForum” which was held with participation of about 100 countries and 75 entities of Russia. He also mentioned that the annual meeting of the Strategic Vision Group “Russia-the Islamic World” and the XVI Forum of Tatar Religious leaders were also held on the sidelines of the Forum. 

“One of the main events -Izge Bolga Zhyene- is held today. The esteemed Sheikh Talgat Tajuddin was at the origins of this holiday. It is important to remember and honor our traditions,” the Rais of the republic said and noted the huge contribution of the First President of Tatarstan Mintimer Shaimiev into the restoration of Ancient Bolgar. 

After welcoming speeches of Russian, Belarus and Tatarstan Muslim and Orthodox religious leaders, the guests of the holiday had a collective prayer in the historical Cathedral Mosque. 

Later the same day Rustam Minnikhanov visited the site of the final of the CIS Koresh Championship and awarded the winner.