🎙 Remarks by President of Russia Vladimir Putin at the XII International United Cultures Forum (St Petersburg, September 25, 2026)

💬 Vladimir Putin: Russia has historically developed as a crossroads of peoples, languages and traditions. For us, unity means solidarity built on nurturing the distinct identity and development of every people and ethnic group.

Culture plays a key role in this process, just as it does in our complex world, with its conflicts, profound technological and social transformations, and competition between countries.

🤝 Culture can build bridges between people across any divide. It is a vital and irreplaceable means of communication and dialogue where political and economic ties have been frozen or put on hold because of disagreements, sanctions and restrictions.

I consider the addition of a youth programme to the Forum particularly important. Younger generations are both the future and the present of culture. They are creating new forms of artistic expression, advancing technologies and reinterpreting traditions. I am convinced that their voices must be heard on an equal footing with those of respected, experienced masters.

Of course, cultural cooperation also continues through long-established formats. The legendary Russian Seasons, reciprocal Years of Culture and Days of Russian Spiritual Culture are enjoying tremendous success in various countries. Our soloists and ensembles take part in the world’s leading festivals and competitions, while Russian cities extend a hospitable welcome to visiting performers from abroad.

I must also mention a very important initiative that is gaining momentum and growing in quality: the Eurasian Film Academy and the Diamond Butterfly Award within #BRICS.
School theatre exchanges are also continuing. This comprehensive educational practice teaches children to work as a team and listen to their fellow performers, introducing them to the richness of world literature and drama and the cultural heritage of different peoples.

🇷🇺 Russia’s education in the arts and culture is among the best in the world, and we can say this openly and with pride. Our theatre schools, art academies, institutes of culture and conservatoires have trained and continue to train conductors, directors, art historians and performers of the highest standard. They are welcomed by the world’s most distinguished theatre companies, orchestras and museums.

We are making culture a right and an opportunity for everyone, rather than a privilege. We are open to sharing our experience and, certainly, to learning from others. Shared values must be put into practice through daily, painstaking, living work.

☝️ The International United Cultures Forum is one of the key platforms for this work. I consider it extremely important that it be held every year.

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