The 10th regional conference of Russian “compatriots” in the Middle East and Africa was held in Doha recently.
The two-day event saw a large gathering of Russians living in the region.
Speaking at the opening of the event, Russian ambassador to Qatar Nurmakhmad Kholov stressed the importance of the activities of Russian citizens abroad, acting as the country’s unofficial representatives. He also quoted Russian President Vladimir Putin, who said work with compatriots abroad was an important aspect of their foreign policy.
“I am happy to see such a large representation of Russian compatriots from the region gathered here in Qatar, especially given the contributions that Russians abroad have made to furthering bilateral relations in the countries in which they live. As you know, Russia always works to support its citizens abroad and we hope that, by working together, we can solve any concerns that you might have,” the ambassador said.
Special guest Sheikh Ali bin Abdullah al-Thani welcomed the participants to “their second country, Qatar” and wished the gathering every success, outlining the developing relations between Russia and Qatar.
“Relations between Qatar and Russia are strong and they continue to develop, especially with the recent visit of HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to Russia in January this year, during which he met with President Putin. We hope that bilateral relations between our two countries can go from strength to strength in the future as well, not least due to this conference and its discussions and outcomes,” he said.
Russian citizens from more than 20 countries in the Arab region and the African continent gathered to discuss the most pressing issues of their lives as well as the latest developments in Russia. Distinguished guests from Russia, Lithuania and Qatar attended the event.
During the event, representatives of the Russian compatriots’ movement talked about the ways of consolidation among them, working with the young generation to keep them in touch with Russian culture and traditions, and discussing the possibilities of spreading the Russian language and culture in co-ordination with local authorities.
Representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also came to Doha for the conference.