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Having emphasised the forum’s importance for consolidating the unity of multi-ethnic Russia and developing good neighbourly relations with the Turkic world, Magomedsalam Magomedov read Vladimir Putin’s message of greetings to the event participants and guests.

The message of the President of Russia reads, in part:

“This meeting has gathered young people who are motivated and have an active civil and patriotic position – those who have already achieved tangible success in labour or creativity, or those who are just starting their professional careers.

The main point is that all of you understand the value of good neighbourly relations, peace and accord between representatives of different nations. For centuries, these principles have formed the foundation of Russian statehood and helped our predecessors to jointly develop the country, its economy, science and culture.

Naturally, in the year of the 75^th anniversary of the beginning of the Great Patriotic War, we recall its participants and veterans – people of many ethnicities and religions who fought shoulder to shoulder for the freedom and independence of our Fatherland and won.

I am convinced that such initiatives as your meeting serve to consolidate society and help raise the younger generation in the spirit of respect for lofty moral ideals and the common history of the Russian peoples. I hope that you will remember the forum for its benevolent atmosphere and useful discussions.”

Within the forum educational programme, Mr Magomedov met with delegates representing Turkic youth associations. During a panel discussion, he reviewed with youth leaders topical issues of the state’s ethnic policy and the development of the cultural heritage of the peoples of Russia.

Mr Magomedov told youth leaders about the decisions made by the President and described the developments and trends in ethnic relations.

“In today’s difficult geopolitical situation, we are witnessing attempts by certain forces to artificially cause a split in centuries-long friendly relations between Russia and the Turkic world, and to drive a wedge into ethnic accord within the country.

I am convinced that these attempts will achieve nothing. Our unity is not only a source of the durability of Russia’s statehood but also our greatest advantage, a potential for the successful future development for each ethnicity in Russia and Russian society as a whole,” Mr Magomedov said.

During his visit, Mr Magomedov also held a working meeting with Head of the Republic of Bashkortostan Rustem Khamitov. They discussed issues of socio-economic development and the state of ethnic relations in the region.