Welcome Address by Rustam Minnikhanov, Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan and Chairman of the Group of Strategic Vision “Russia–Islamic World,” at the Plenary Session of the International Scientific and Practical Conference “Russia–Islamic World Dialogue: Shared Cultural Heritage as a Basis for Cooperation”.
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh!
Dear friends,
I am pleased to welcome all of you here today.
First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to our international and Russian colleagues for taking part in this conference — the concluding event in this year’s program of the Group of Strategic Vision (GSV) “Russia–Islamic World.” Its theme, “Russia–Islamic World Dialogue: Shared Cultural Heritage as a Basis for Cooperation” is particularly relevant today.
The dialogue between Russia and the Islamic world is rooted in history. It represents an enduring interaction between civilizations that have long shared a common cultural and historical space across Eurasia.
At the core of these civilizations lie values such as:
● Justice and mutual support;
● Respect for:
- older generations;
- family values;
- the traditions of different peoples and faiths.
It is symbolic that this final conference coincides with the 950th anniversary of the founding of the Nizamiya Madrasa in Dagestan and the emergence of higher Islamic education on the territory of Russia — a testament to Islam’s rich intellectual and moral legacy in our country.
Russia is home to millions of Muslims, and Islam is an integral part of its historical and cultural heritage. We see in this partnership a strategic horizon for the future.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Russian Federation receiving observer status in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation — an event that opened new opportunities to deepen dialogue across a wide range of areas, including:
● Political and economic cooperation;
● Collaboration in science, education, and culture.
An important instrument of this interaction is the GSV “Russia–Islamic World,” which I have the honor to lead at the instruction of President Vladimir Putin.
A particularly significant event underscoring Russia’s place in the Islamic world was the decision by the Ministers of Culture of OIC member states to designate Kazan as the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World for 2026.
Dear friends,
I am convinced that a stable and trusting dialogue between Russia and the Islamic world can thrive only by drawing on the deep intersections of our peoples’ history and culture. In this regard, educational and intellectual exchange remains as essential as ever.
In conclusion, I would like to once again thank you for your participation in the conference, and wish you productive discussions and success in the noble work of strengthening friendship and cooperation between our countries and peoples.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"