Greetings to the 3rd International Catherine Forum

The message reads, in part:

“I welcome you to the 3rd International Catherine Forum, one of the premier events celebrating the 300th anniversary of Catherine II.

It is gratifying that this significant public and state project has once again brought together representatives of the authorities, international and national cultural organisations, the academic and expert communities, and guests from abroad at the Rossiya National Centre.

An important place on the agenda of this meeting is occupied by most pressing issues of the day such as the advancement of international humanitarian cooperation and people’s diplomacy, support for foreign nationals who tie their future to Russia, and the attraction of qualified specialists to our country. And, of course, your discussions will also address the historical significance of the manifestos of Catherine II, which opened up the opportunity for natives of European countries to come to Russia, find a new Fatherland here and serve it faithfully for centuries.

I would like to emphasise that we will continue to assist our compatriots and foreign nationals who share traditional spiritual and moral values, to create conditions for their professional and creative fulfilment, and to give priority attention to improving the relevant legislation and law enforcement practice in this area.”