Parade on the occasion of 70th anniversary of Victory takes place in Kazan

On May 9, Acting Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov, State Counsellor Mintimer Shaimiev, Chairman of State Council of the republic Farid Mukhametshin, Prime Minister of the republic Ildar Khalikov, Mayor of Kazan Ilsur Metshin, veterans and guests took part in a festive parade on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of Victory in WWII in Kazan.

The event started with bright dramatized prologue with main episodes of war. The state flags of Russia and Tatarstan and Victory Banner were brought out and participants of the event watched the Parade from Red Square in Moscow live.

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed citizens with congratulatory speech.

“Our entire multi-ethnic nation rose to fight for our Motherland’s freedom. Everyone bore the severe burden of the war. Together, our people made an immortal exploit to save the country. They predetermined the outcome of World War II. They liberated European nations from the Nazis.

Veterans of the Great Patriotic War, wherever they live today, should know that here, in Russia, we highly value their fortitude, courage and dedication to frontline brotherhood,” Putin said.

After President’s speech participants of the event honoured the memory of the fallen by a minute’s silence, the anthem of Russia was heard and Interim President of the Republic of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov congratulated everyone on behalf of the State Council, Government and personally on the 70th anniversary of Victory in Great Patriotic War.

“Victory Day is a holiday of all centuries. This holiday is important for people of all ages, nationalities and religions. Every family recalls victims of that horrible war today. We paid a big price for the Great Victory. We remember and are proud of multi-million army of homefront workers, appreciate the contribution of party and Soviet workers, honour the memory about Orthodox and Muslim religious leaders who encouraged people. Lest we forget heroes and the fallen!”

Rustam Minnikhanov said. He noted that Victory parades are being held all over the country. After President’s speech the anthem of Tatarstan was played and soldiers of Kazan garrison and law enforcement bodies marched across the square.

The orchestra of Kazan garrison finished the parade by singing a famous song “Victory Day”.