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President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, colleagues.

Members of the boards of trustees of the Bolshoi Theatre and the Mariinsky Theatre have come together for a meeting today. This format is vastly popular, because many companies and philanthropists widely support these two theatres and their joint projects.

I am aware that you support other performing groups, museums, libraries, and cultural institutions, participate in the initiatives to preserve architectural and historical heritage, organise tours, festivals, contests, and concerts, as well as educational and exhibition events and programmes.

Your contribution to supporting young musicians, artists, and performers deserves special mention, because it not only helps them develop their talents, but also helps them make an active and constructive contribution to the country’s social life, which fully resonates with our traditions, values, and ideas, as well as Russian culture narratives which invariably focus on the people and our nation.

Cultural heritage, spiritual identity, and creative wealth constitute a powerful foundation for the country’s progress and societal consolidation. By supporting a variety of cultural projects, you, colleagues, make a significant contribution to strengthening the unity of our people. Please accept my heartfelt gratitude for this and your active participation in the activities of the Bolshoi and Mariinsky theatres which are our cultural flagships. You are their true friends and partners.

The performances and concerts by these renowned theatres and their branches enjoy great demand and love. Every year, more than ten premieres show up on their playbills.

Next year marks the 250^th anniversary of the Bolshoi Theatre, which is on the list of the most valuable assets of our national heritage treasured by the Russian people. Its anniversary will be a celebration for all lovers of opera, ballet, and symphonic music.

Events dedicated to this occasion are underway. An organising committee led by Tatyana Golikova is operational. May I suggest that we now discuss the status of preparations for the celebration? Is there anything that needs our attention or any other issues that need to be discussed?

The Bolshoi Theatre and the Mariinsky Theatre are, without exaggeration, two outstanding symbols of Russia. We take pride in these two theatres that are the very soul of the great Russian culture and global centres of musical art. Without a doubt, we must have a clear understanding of their future.

Mr Gergiev, you have the floor.

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