One of the guests of the First International Catherine II Forum was Alexander Karelin – a Hero of Russia, Senator of the Russian Federation, member of the presidium of the General Council of the political party “United Russia”, Honoured Master of Sports of the USSR, and three-time Olympic Champion.
At the forum, he gave a public interview, explaining why the idea of Russia as a “new ark” for Europe and the entire world is relevant today, and for whom the traditional family, spiritual, and cultural values that Russia now defends are important. He also emphasised that Russia is currently becoming an attractive country for many established professionals from abroad.
“President Vladimir Putin has declared 2024 the Year of the Family. Our country is fulfilling an international mission to preserve traditional family values. This is a message we must consistently communicate. Relying on the opinion of our multinational and multi-faith people, we have introduced amendments into the fundamental law of our state, which is confident in its righteousness. Traditional values, the impossibility of distorting history, fidelity to traditions – all this is something people living outside our country are able to perceive. If they wish to serve our state, they can move here. Russia has vast territories, rich natural resources, and rapidly developing science; all this opens up tremendous prospects” Alexander Karelin noted.
The Senator also reported that Russia has currently received a large number of applications from foreigners wishing to acquire citizenship. The government is considering the possibility of a simplified procedure for obtaining citizenship and the removal of certain formalities. Furthermore, a state strategy for attracting qualified citizens from abroad has been established in Russia.
“Russia never unilaterally closed itself off from the world. Even now, we did not seek isolation; we only asked for respect for our right to historical truth and traditional values. Our country is open to all who wish to live here. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is making immense efforts towards this”, added Alexander Karelin.
Additionally, the Senator shared his views on integrating new regions into the modern, unified space of Russia. In his opinion, familiarity with our country’s history, culture, literature, Russian language, music, and sports should facilitate this process.
“All nationalities must have the opportunity to be represented. Every nationality in Russia is a facet of a diamond. It is important that they not only shine but are also resilient. Then nothing will break us”, Alexander Karelin remarked.
To add, the outcomes of the First International Catherine II Forum were summarised in Moscow on December 13. The key points formulated by its participants will be incorporated into a resolution outlining the main issues related to realising Russia’s unique potential as a state offering a new life—one that is open to receiving citizens of various countries and enables highly qualified foreign specialists to fully realise their professional ambitions.