State awards presented

On October 31, Tatarstan President Mintimer Shaimiev in the Kazan Kremlin presented the state awards of the Russian Federation and Republic of Tatarstan for the worthy labor to scientists, teachers, heads and workers of the largest enterprises of the republic.

With your work, talent, skill, you greatly contribute to the prosperity of our republic, the President said, opening the solemn ceremony. Our meeting is held towards the end of the year. Today we may say that our plans for 2002 are being carried out. Large objects in the republic will be commissioned in due time. Liquidation of decrepit buildings goes on not only in Kazan, but also in other cities of the republic. It is necessary to say that major actions have to face big problems. There is an urgent question of protection of architectural, historical monuments. As the President said, the houses where Feodor Chaliapin and Lev Tolstoy used to live will be restored. Restoration works will proceed in the Kazan Kremlin, Kazan State University.

Those awarded not only thanked for the high estimation of their work, but also shared their cares and problems with the head of the republic.