Overview
- Speaking on November 5 at the Council for Interethnic Relations in Moscow, Vladimir Putin outlined cultural policy priorities.
- He said the cultures, customs, and languages of every people in Russia form the "basis of bases" of national policy.
- Putin described Russian identity, traditions, culture, and language as state-forming elements that require careful protection.
- He asserted that the unifying role of Russian culture and the Russian language guarantees the cohesion of the multiethnic state.
- He characterized russophobia as a principal tool used by Russia’s opponents and said it targets all communities in the country.