Rustam Minnikhanov, the Rais of Tatarstan, delivered his annual message to the State Council, highlighting the preservation of a high level of interethnic and interconfessional harmony in the region.
Minnikhanov noted various events that contributed to this unity, including within the framework of the Group of Strategic Vision "Russia - Islamic World," interreligious dialogues with the involvement of Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus' Kirill, the 13th All-Russian Forum of Tatar religious figures, and celebrations related to the official adoption of Islam by the Volga Bulgaria. Furthermore, traditional events dedicated to the Our Lady of Kazan icon and the upcoming fifth Forum of the Orthodox community of Tatarstan were mentioned.
The message emphasized Tatarstan's commitment to preserving historical and cultural heritage and promoting ethnocultural diversity. Efforts were made in this regard during the Year of National Cultures and Traditions in Tatarstan. Minnikhanov stressed the importance of passing down cultural heritage to future generations.
Tatarstan continues to strengthen international cooperation, particularly with a focus on defending traditional spiritual values, historical and cultural heritage, and contributing to a just world order. Developing mutually beneficial cooperation with the Islamic world is a priority, with KazanForum serving as an effective platform. Minnikhanov highlighted that over 80 foreign countries participated in the forum this year, emphasizing that Russia is not isolated. Continuing cooperation with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in various fields, including youth policy, culture, education, and sports, was also encouraged.
An important area of focus is attracting foreign investment from Islamic countries through the implementation of the federal law on partnership finance. Tatarstan is a pilot region for this project, and Minnikhanov called for a thorough examination of the experiment to create favorable legal conditions for introducing partnership finance in Russia. Special attention should be given to training specialists in Islamic banking and informing the population and businesses about these initiatives, with a significant role to be played by the Religious Board of Muslims of Tatarstan.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of Rais RT