Dmitry Peskov at the National Centre RUSSIA: the historical affinity between Eurasian peoples must be cultivated

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The historical affinity between the peoples of Eurasia must be supported, not undermined for the sake of short-term goals and interests of certain states. This was stated by the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office of Russia and Press Secretary of the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, Dmitry Peskov, at the Eurasia International Award ceremony held on 29 October at the National Centre RUSSIA.

"Historically, the largest state on the Eurasian continent was the Soviet Union. Over time, it ceased to exist, and many independent countries emerged, but the peoples remained the same. Harmony between nations, historical roots, and mutual benefits have endured — and this is the foundation of the enduring affinity that the peoples of these countries feel for one another. However, not all governments heed the aspirations of their citizens. We know that there are a number of states that try to oppose the historical ties of their peoples with short-term populist aims that do not always serve their real interests," Dmitry Peskov noted.

In this context, the Kremlin representative praised the work of the organiser of the Award, the ANO Eurasia: "What the Eurasia Foundation is doing is an absolutely noble mission — to cultivate this historical affinity between our peoples living across the vast geography of Eurasia, to unite them so that they can discuss shared values and a common vision of how states should coexist and cooperate with each other."

Dmitry Peskov also emphasised the importance of the Russian language as a unifying factor for international cooperation.

"There are many mixed families, many young people who study languages that are advantageous for their future. In this respect, of course, we in Russia speak about the Russian language. The Russian Federation is doing a great deal to share its vision and values with those who share them. And, of course, the Eurasia Foundation, together with Rossotrudnichestvo, provides invaluable support in this endeavour," he added.

The first-ever Eurasia International Award was established by the ANO "Eurasia" together with Rossotrudnichestvo to honour outstanding contributions to the development of the countries of Eurasia in such areas as the preservation of traditional values, culture, education, volunteering and the promotion of the Russian language.

More than 3,700 applications from 27 countries were submitted for participation in the Award. The final event at the National Centre RUSSIA brought together over 1,000 participants, including nominees, experts, public figures and honorary guests.