On 12 February, welcoming participants of the XIII Conference of Ministers of Culture of the Islamic world in Jeddah from more than 50 countries, the Rais (Head) of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov stated that Russia traditionally has close and trustworthy relations with Islamic countries both bilaterally and within the cooperation with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

”The expansion of BRICS is the proof of commitment of our Muslim partners to principles of multi-polarity. In October last year Kazan hosted the BRICS summit which welcomed representatives and leaders of 26 countries including 16 Islamic countries – members of the OIC,” Rustam Minnikhanov emphasized.

He reminded that on an errand from Russian President he has been the Head of the Strategic Vision Group “Russia-the Islamic world” since 2014. “We attach great attention to the coming session of the Group in May this year which will be dedicated to experience of Russia and Islamic countries in youth policy and which will be held during the KazanForum. We invite you to take part in it as out guests of honour,” he said.

Telling about rich cultural traditions of Tatarstan, the Rais of the republic informed that currently they are working on an issue of inscribing the Sabantuy national holiday into the ISESCO intangible heritage list.

“Considering rich experience of friendly interaction with the Islamic world and with long cultural and historical heritage of Islam, we express our interest in becoming a part of the ISESCO Cultural capitals programme. Kazan has been nominated to the position of the Islamic World Cultural capital 2026 and we hope you will support our application,”Rustam Minnikhanov concluded.