CIS member states pay special attention to cultural and humanitarian ties at the Moscow Summit

On December 18, Moscow hosted an important diplomatic meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), which focused on expanding cultural and humanitarian cooperation between the member States.

The key participants of the meeting were representatives of Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

The main agenda of the meeting was devoted to the development of cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian sphere. Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the Council with a video message in which he stressed the vital role of cultural ties and common history in strengthening unity within the CIS. He stressed the importance of preserving the unique civilizational fusion of traditions, customs, languages, literature, art and folk art, which form the basis of integration processes within the CIS.

Russia, which will assume the presidency of the Commonwealth on January 1, 2023, has outlined plans to continue and expand joint activities in various fields of art, education and science. Putin expressed his commitment to encouraging film and television projects, organizing music competitions and implementing initiatives such as the Eurasian Academy of Cinematographic Arts and the Eurasian Film Awards.

In addition, Putin stressed Russia's commitment to preserving the collective memory of a common past, combating the falsification of history and honoring those who sacrificed themselves during the Great Patriotic War. Initiatives such as the Immortal Regiment, the St. George Ribbon and the Train of Memory play a crucial role in familiarizing citizens, especially young people, with historical events and places of military importance.

He particularly noted the creation of the International Organization for the Russian Language with headquarters in Sochi, ratified at the Bishkek Summit in October. President Putin stressed the organization's role in protecting and promoting the Russian language as a means of mutual understanding and communication.

The meeting took place at the VDNH complex, giving the heads of delegations the opportunity to get acquainted with the international exhibition-forum "Russia". The exhibition introduces the traditions, culture and modern life of the CIS member states, contributing to a deeper understanding between visitors and strengthening the bonds of friendship within the Commonwealth.

In conclusion, President Putin warmly congratulated on the New Year and expressed hope for a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council and a traditional informal meeting of CIS leaders in St. Petersburg at the end of December.-0--