Mintimer Shaimiev takes part in an event dedicated to the Day of the Defender of the Fatherland

On February 22, at the Saidashev State Big Concert Hall in Kazan, Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov. Tatarstan State Counsellor, Hero of Labour of Russia Mintimer Shaimiev, Hero of the Soviet Union Boris Kuznetsov, veterans and representatives of the Russian Armed Forces, heads of ministries and department of the republic and ither officials took part in a solemn event dedicated to the Day of the Defender of the Fatherland.

“The Day of the Defender of the Fatherland is a holiday of honour, dedication to military duty and love for the Motherland of those who dedicated to their country and protect its security, who, sparing no effort, are ready to defend the freedom and independence of the state,”Minnikhanov said.

Minnikhanov addressed separate words of gratitude to veterans. "The life of each of you is a vivid example of courage and boundless love for the Motherland," he said. “We remember and commemorate all those who performed their military and civil duty, those who died in the battle, defending their people. During the Great Patriotic War, 226 of our compatriots were awarded the title of the Hero of the Soviet Union. The Hero of the Soviet Union Boris Kuznetsov is here with us today. He is an active participant of all our events and is doing a lot of work to educate the younger generation.”

Minnikhanov noted that our servicemen showed courage and stood firm in the war in Afghanistan, in the counter-terrorist operations in the Caucasus region and in Syria, in peacekeeping missions and in the liquidation of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident.

"It is gratifying that the younger generation of Tatarstan citizens is worthy of the high title of the Russian soldier," Tatarstan President said. "Our young draftees serve in the Preobrazhensky regiment, in the Black Sea Fleet. I want to express my gratitude to all those who are currently taking military service and are protecting our multinational country."

"President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin stressed that it is extremely important to pay special attention to the modern technical equipment of the Russian army and navy," Minnikhanov said. “Quality military education is also important. We managed to keep the legendary Kazan Higher Tank Command Red Banner School, which dates back to 1866. "

According to Minnikhanov, we more than ever understand that we should focus on the civil and patriotic education of children and youth. He reminded that the regional branch of the military public patriotic movement "Unarmia" is successfully operating in the republic.

"From the bottom of my heart, I congratulate you on the Day of the Defender of the Fatherland. I wish you and your family and friends good health, good mood, happiness and prosperity!", Minnikhanov concluded.