Speaking at the ceremony, Vladimir Putin declared that Russia is paying increased attention to the revival of science and culture and to promoting morality and spirituality among society. Developing the nation’s intellectual capacities and creative potential is fundamental for achieving our country and strengthening state sovereignty, Mr Putin said.
The President noted that Russia’s historic role and independence is in part due to its rich and unique cultural heritage. He also emphasised that in today’s global world one must do everything possible so that the newest achievements of Russian academics and creative community constitute a progressive force and an integral part of world civilisation.
Modern Russia is a country that is open to the world at large. The free exchange of ideas and the broader information and cultural platforms in today’s world create visible advantages but, first and foremost, they also require that Russians compete at a very high level. Vladimir Putin said that Russian academics and cultural figures are well aware of this and understand that Russia’s cultural wealth and dignity rely on the economic, intellectual and creative resources of the Russian people.
In keeping with tradition the Russian National Awards 2006 ceremony was held in the Georgievsky Hall in the Grand Kremlin Palace in the presence of representatives from Russia’s cultural and scientific elite.
Following the awards ceremony the President of Russia hosted a reception in the Kremlin’s Ivanovsky Square in connection with the Day of Russia and to honour the winners of the Russian National Awards 2006.
A few days earlier on 5 June 2007 the names of the 2006 winners of Russian National Awards 2006 in science and technology, art and literature, and for outstanding achievements in the cultural and educational spheres were announced at a special briefing in the Kremlin.