Opening the meeting, Mr Naryshkin said that much effort is underway in Yaroslavl not just to preserve historic heritage, but also to develop the city further, and address the problems facing today’s and future residents. Yaroslavl has everything it needs to achieve its objectives. The city is home to a wide range of industry, educational centres, and is actively building new housing.
Mr Naryshkin noted that Yaroslavl has gained new status in recent years as the host of influential international discussion forums. An international political forum will take place in the city in the run-up to the 1000th anniversary celebrations, with politicians, experts, and businesspeople from various countries gathering to discuss topical issues for modern democratic nations.
The city has gained some additional possibilities as it prepares for its millennium celebration, and has been allocated substantial funds from the federal and regional budgets, including through the instructions given by the President at the state commission’s last meeting.
Yaroslavl is above all an ancient Russian town, one of the first centres of civilisation in the area that has become today’s Russia, and by honouring Yaroslavl the country shows its attention and respect for all Russian lands, Mr Naryshkin said.