Mintimer Shaimiev takes part in solemn opening of the Izge Bolgar Zhyeny holiday

On May 20, in the ancient town of Bolgar, Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov and State Counsellor of the republic Mintimer Shaimiev took part in the solemn opening of the Izge Bolgar Zhyeny holiday dedicated to the Day of official adoption of Islam in Volga Bulgaria.

About 50,000 Muslims from all over Russia arrived in the republic to visit the Islamic holy place this year.

Welcoming the guests of the holiday, Minnikhanov noted that in 922 Volga Bulgaria adopted Islam on this holy land. "Our ancestors chose this land, this religion, and we must cherish the traditions and customs they set up. Due to the work of the Revival Foundation and our first President of Tatarstan, Mintimer Shaimiev, great job has been done recently. This is a wonderful place that everyone can visit to see how this territory of our ancestors was developed," he said.

Tatarstan President noted that the ancient town of Bolgar is becoming more attractive for tourists. He thanked Shaimiev, who, according to him, "is the core of this whole process." Also, Minnikhanov noted the huge contribution of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who supported the Revival Foundation and the idea of creating the Bolgar Islamic Academy.

In his turn Shaimiev added that the town of Bolgar is changing every year, new large projects are being implemented.

At the end of their visit to Bolgar Minnikhanov and Shaimiev joined other pilgrims and took part in the midday prayer, which took place at the Cathedral Square.