Dear Friends!
Welcome to the opening of the International Cultural Forum, which brings together representatives from different regions of our country and abroad.
It is symbolic that St. Petersburg has been chosen as the forum’s venue, as it is traditionally considered to be Russia’s cultural capital. Historical and architectural monuments, museums, theatres, concert and exhibition halls, and majestic cathedrals annually attract to the city on the Neva River millions of tourists from all over the world. And you, experts in culture, will have to discuss important issues related to the conservation and augmentation of the unique culture of our multinational country, ensuring access for citizens to cultural values, and the promotion of international humanitarian cooperation.
The development of culture and art is a state priority. We clearly understand that our success in the economic and social sectors depends on the implementation of this task, as culture has a direct impact on the skills and aesthetic education of the people.
I hope that challenging discussions and experience exchanges will take place at the forum and this will result in joint initiatives and projects that will be included into the 2014 Year of Culture programme.
I wish the forum participants and guests fruitful communication and, of course, vivid impressions of their stay in St. Petersburg.
Dmitry Medvedev
