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Vladimir Putin: Compatriots!

Today we celebrate our National Flag Day.

Our state banners, like our country, have a thousand-year history. Old Russian armies raised flags with the image of Christ Not Made by Hand over their regiments. In the 19^th century, the black, yellow and white flag of the Russian Empire was flown on the country’s official buildings. In the 20^th century, our country lived with the red flag for over 70 years, and it was under this flag that the Great Patriotic War was won.

All of Russia’s historical flags and symbols warrant respect from its citizens, public activists, and representatives of the authorities because they reflect the continuity of the development of our nation and statehood.

But we certainly have special feelings for the white, blue and red flag; it is our official national flag, which was instituted as such by Peter the Great.

The tricolour was hoisted over our country again on August 22, 1991. We have overcome many hardships and ordeals with this flag flying overhead, but in essence we have restored the sovereignty of our country.

Russia is a one thousand year old country and civilization. Our national flag is a symbol of our unity. I believe that the national flag will always inspire us to move forward, to victory, and to assert the glory of Russia.

Happy National Flag Day, friends!