The statement states that Putin defined the task of the modern world as uniting efforts for the uniqueness and diversity of cultures, traditions, and visions, advancing, supporting innovation, and countering the threats of the disappearance of minority cultures, in his speech at the plenary session of the United Cultures Forum held in Saint Petersburg.

The Russian head of state also called for promoting the principles of justice and equality in relations between peoples, freeing the world from prejudices, double standards, and attempts to erase one culture or another.

According to the president, the role of culture in the fight against neo-Nazism and Russophobia must grow.

He also emphasized that the Intervision international music competition, which will be held on September 20 at the Live Arena in the Russian capital, will maintain its atmosphere of friendship and creativity.

“We are grateful to our supporters who back up Russia’s initiative to revive the Intervision international music competition,” the head of state added.

The St. Petersburg International Forum of United Cultures was first held in 2012. The forum is a platform for dialogue on the most important issues on the global cultural and humanitarian agenda. The theme of this year’s forum is “Return to Culture: New Opportunities.”

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