"Closer than it seems": Governor Dmitry Artyukhov spoke about Yamal at the National Centre RUSSIA
Despite its harsh climate and geographical remoteness from the capital, Yamal is much closer to the centre of Russia than many people assume, and this may come as a real discovery for many residents of the country. The key features of the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Area were presented at the National Centre RUSSIA by Governor Dmitry Artyukhov. The meeting took place as part of the themed days of the region at the exposition "Book of Fairy Tales".
"Just over half a million people live in Yamal. The region accounts for 80% of all Russian gas production and nearly 20% of global output. Our residents are among the youngest in Russia, with the average age at 35. And we are much closer than many think. Those who have never been to Yamal are often surprised to learn that it is only two and a half hours by plane from Moscow to the capital of the area — Salekhard," Dmitry Artyukhov said, speaking about the scale of the region and, at the same time, its geographical paradoxes.
Speaking about the uniqueness of the peninsula, Dmitry Artyukhov noted not only its industrial strength but also its natural wealth — a source of particular pride for local residents.
"The peninsula is home to the largest open mainland rookery of Atlantic walruses, and the region takes pride in having the largest reindeer population in the world. Indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North occupy a special place in the life of Yamal: every tenth resident belongs to one of these peoples. This certainly adds uniqueness to our land. It is our pride — the harmonious combination of major industrial development and the traditions of nomads who have lived on Yamal land for centuries," the Governor added.
The themed week of the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Area is being held at the National Centre RUSSIA from 10 to 15 February. Guests can attend meetings with representatives of the region, masterclasses in traditional crafts, the concert programme "Traditions and Innovations", film screenings and educational events dedicated to the culture, nature and strategic development of Yamal.
Admission to all expositions and events at the National Centre RUSSIA is free of charge. Some events require prior registration. The up-to-date schedule is available on russia.ru in the "Events" section.
To tell the story of the country in a way that makes guests want to travel to a distant region, open a history book, or bring their children and friends on a tour — this is what guides of the National Centre RUSSIA see as their mission today.
The audience programme will include 38 films by well-known Russian and international filmmakers.
On the eve of International Tourist Guide Day, celebrated on 21 February, the best guides and young tour guides were honoured at the National Centre RUSSIA.
