Rais of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov delivered a speech at the 13th Conference of the Ministers of Culture in the Islamic World in Jeddah, welcoming participants from over 50 countries.
Minnikhanov emphasized that Russia maintains traditionally close and trusting relations with Islamic states, both bilaterally and through its cooperation with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
“A testament to the commitment of our Muslim partners to the principles of multipolarity is the expansion of BRICS. Last October, our capital, Kazan, hosted the BRICS summit, which was attended by representatives and leaders from 36 countries, including 16 Muslim OIC member states,” Minnikhanov highlighted.
He reminded attendees that since 2014, under the directive of the President of the Russian Federation, he has chaired the Group of Strategic Vision “Russia — Islamic World.” He announced plans for the group's upcoming session in May, which will focus on youth policy experiences in Russia and the Islamic world. The session will be held as part of the KazanForum, an annual event bringing together government, business, financial organizations, and experts.
“I invite you to join us as honorary guests,” Minnikhanov said.
Discussing Tatarstan’s cultural heritage, he noted ongoing efforts to include the national Sabantuy festival in the Intangible Heritage List of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ISESCO).
“With our extensive history of friendly relations with the Islamic world and the rich cultural and historical heritage of Islam, we express our interest in becoming part of ISESCO's Cultural Capitals Program. The city of Kazan has been nominated for the title of Islamic World Cultural Capital for 2026. We hope for your support of our application,” Minnikhanov concluded.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of the Rais RT
Based on materials from the press service of the Rais RT