The President said, in particular, in his message:
“Over these last 15 years since its establishment, this forum has proved its use and value as an effective platform for dialogue between representatives of Russian and Finnish state agencies, regional and local authorities, non-governmental organisations, creative groups, research centres, and educational establishments, and has gained an important place in our two countries’ cultural and public life.
The theme of this year’s forum – Culture in a Changing World – is particularly topical and multifaceted. You will discuss a broad range of issues concerning how to preserve our peoples’ rich spiritual heritage and original traditions and customs in an era of accelerating scientific and technological progress, and will reflect on how to establish effective new forms of international humanitarian cooperation.
I hope that your work together will help to develop the friendly and good-neighbourly ties that traditionally bind our two countries, and will strengthen trust and mutual understanding between our peoples.”
The Russian-Finnish Cultural Forum is taking place in Russia this year, in Petrozavodsk, the capital of Karelia.