Mintimer Shaimiev takes part in solemn reception on behalf Tatarstan President on the occasion of Fatherland Defender's Day

On February 22, at the Kazan Kremlin, Tatarstan State Counsellor Mintimer Shaimiev took part in a solemn reception on behalf of Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov on the occasion of the Fatherland Defender's Day.

Tatarstan President congratulated reservists, soldiers, military service and combat veterans on the upcoming holiday. He noted that the Fatherland Defender's Day has become a symbol of devotion to duty and service to the Fatherland. "Traditionally, we honor those who guard our multinational country, protecting it from external and internal threats, remember heroes, commemorate our fathers and grandfathers, say wishes to the youth," he said.

According to Tatarstan President, the Armed Forces have always been a stronghold of the power and stability of the Russian state. "The leadership of our country is taking adequate measures to strengthen the combat capability of the army and equip it with modern weapons and equipment. We have saved enterprises, ensuring national security of Russia. Due to systematic approach we were able to increase production at the military-industrial enterprises. Every year more than 8,000 draftees are called up for military service from Tatarstan,'' he stressed.

Minnikhanov said that the work on patriotic education of the younger generation has been underway in the republic for many years.

"Tatarstan took a number of forces under its patronage, municipalities of the republic patronize 46 Russian military units. As many as 57 military patriotic groups on preparing young people for service in the army are working effectively. Cadet education is being actively developed. All of this gives tangible results” he stated.

"We are proud of our draftees, who are worthy of the distinguished title of the Russian soldier,” he added and thanked participants of the event for their love of the Fatherland, loyalty to their oath and military duty.

Then, Minnikhanov handed in state awards of Russia and Tatarstan.