Rustam Minnikhanov: Victory Day is a holiday of great moral sense and uniting power

Victory Day takes a special important place in history of the Russian state and is a sacred holiday for every Russian citizen. Such a statement was made by the Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov at a solemn event dated to 67th anniversary of Victory in Great Patriotic War.

Celebration took place at G.Kamal theatre with participation of RT State Counselor Mintimer Shaimiev, Prime Minister Ildar Khalikov, chiefs of republican ministries and agencies.

Veterans were met by activists of youth organizations at the square before the theatre. An exhibition of school museums dedicated to Great Patriotic War opened in the hall of the theatre.

The solemn event started from carrying flags of Russia, Tatarstan and Banner of Victory to the stage.

The Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov addressed veterans with greetings.

“Dear war veterans and homefront workers, soldiers of the Kazan garrison, dear friends! Receive my sincere greetings on V-day. This date takes a special place in our history. It is a sacred holiday for every Russian citizen. CIS countries, the near and far abroad celebrate the holiday with us. Victory Day is a holiday of all mankind which defeated fascism at the cost of enormous victims and sufferings. There is not a family in Tatarstan which did not face the flame of the bloody war. More than 700 thousand people went to the front from republic in those distant 40s. Half of them died. We will always remember the fallen heroes.” President of Tatarstan suggested everyone joining in a minute's silence.

“The contribution of our compatriots in Victory is inestimable. More than 600 defense items were provided by republic in war years. The Kazan gunpowder plant supplied 94 thousand tons of gunpowder to the front. Million tons of foodstuffs were provided by the agricultural sector.
More than 300 Tatarstaners were awarded with the title “Hero of the Soviet Union” and became full Cavaliers of the Order of Glory of three classes, more than 200 thousand people were awarded with battle orders and medals.

Victory Day is a holiday of great moral sense and uniting power which is passed on from generation to generation. This day we especially feel the time link and continuity of generations. Memory of Great Patriotic War helps educating the youth and respect for Victory heritage.

Today Tatarstan demonstrates the example of successful modernization of various economic sectors. We are launching new capacities, attracting investments, population's incomes are growing. We are doing our best to solve social problems, improve the level and quality of veterans’ life. Due to support of the Russian President and Government more than 15 000 veterans have been provided with comfortable housing. We will continue realizing the program.

Positive changes are happening in health care. Improvement of quality of medical services and pharmacological support of war veterans are under special control. We are deeply obliged to the generation of winners, therefore we do our best to make life of our heroes worthy of their unforgettable feat. I sincerely thank our heroes for priceless experience, friendly advice, wisdom and tolerance. I wish you health and longevity. Thank you so much!”