Vladimir Putin: I am glad to be here, in one of St Petersburg’s most beautiful places to attend the dedication of the square to Peter the Great.
Many places in this city are associated with his name. And no wonder because he conceived it, started building it, put it on its feet and made it great.
Overnight, as if in a fairy-tale not only government buildings and palaces, but also magnificent churches, factories, fortifications, hospitals, universities and theatres sprang up in St Petersburg. And everything bore the mark of imperial splendour and scale. It was worthy of a city that claimed global significance.
A lot in this country is linked with the name of Peter the Great. I am sure people will often visit this place. This square is located practically in the flood plain of the Neva River which Peter I was so fond of. It was one of his favourite places in St Petersburg. Nearby is the Summer Garden that he also enjoyed.
People will remember Peter the Great’s genius again and again and think about what drove him in his activities, will study the results of his work and his service to Russia.
I am sure the place will always have many visitors, those who love Peter the Great, those who give tribute to all that he did for our country, and those who love St Petersburg.
I congratulate you.