The Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna presents the Order of Saint Anna to Mintimer Shaimiev

On November 12 Tatarstan State Counsellor Mintimer Shaimiev met with Head of Russian Imperial House, the Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna at Kazan Kremlin. The Grand Duchess has already visited the island town of Sviyazhsk. She was very interested in the project of revival of the ancient town of Bolgar and island town of Sviyazhsk. Mintimer Shaimiev told her about history of two towns, reconstruction works, and activity of Regional fund of revival of historical and cultural monuments.

Late on, the guest and Mintimer Shaimiev discussed other issues, including political situation in Russia. During the conversation Maria Vladimirovna thanked Tatarstan leadership for keeping the balance between confessions.

Mintimer Shaimiev invited the Grand Duchess to visit Bolgar in summer and see the world’s largest printed Koran.

Participants of the meeting also discussed summer Universiade 2013 that was held in Kazan.

The Grand Duchess thanked Mintimer Shaimiev for warm reception and presented the orders and badge of merit. In particular, she presented the Order of Saint Anna, medal “Jubilee of National heroic deed 1613-2013” and medal “In memory of 400th anniversary of Romanov House. 1613-2013”.

Mintimer Shaimiev, in his turn, presented a book about the Kazan icon of the Mother of God and a doll in Tatar costume.

After the meeting the guests went to Annunciation Cathedral and Kazan Kremlin.

During her visit to Kazan the Grand Duchess will also visit Kazan federal university and meet with Kazan Mayor.