On June 9, 2016 GlavUpDK’s Cultural Center Held Gala Reception on Occasion of Russia Day

On June 9, 2016, the Cultural Center of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s GlavUpDK held the traditional gala reception on the occasion of Russia’s main state holiday – Russia Day. The soiree was attended by the heads and staff members of more than 80 diplomatic missions with their spouses and Russian officials.

During the reception GlavUpDK with support of the Russian Geographical Society presented to the high guests the unique photo exhibition “The Most Beautiful Land”, featuring the best works done by the participants in the photo competition of the same name that is devoted to wildlife conservation. The diplomats took a keen interest in the fascinating virtual tour of Russia, which allowed them to see the amazing beauty of the natural attractions of the Russian regions: vast expanses of tundra, forest landscapes of central Russia, the unique landscapes of the Crimean coast, the mountain peaks of the Caucasus, as well as Kamchatka volcanoes.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov attended the event. He addressed the diplomatic corps with a welcome speech. Lavrov said, in particular, that Russia Day, established relatively recently, is perceived today as a recognized nationwide holiday, which reflects the historical choice of the Russian people. The Foreign Minister also said that the number of foreign diplomats attending the Russia Day celebration shows that Russia is an open country, which is interested in developing good relations with all countries that are ready for mutually beneficial cooperation.

The guests were warmly welcomed by the famous Voronezh Girls vocal ensemble, and the Igor Moiseyev State Academic Folk Dance Ensemble continued the soiree. The concert program included dances of the peoples of Russia, performed in the Moiseyev signature style - with stunning mastery, ease and artistry.

The Etnomir Ethnographic Park Museum prepared for the reception guests a surprise by inviting them to the dwellings of Russia's indigenous peoples and giving them a unique opportunity to get familiarized with the life and traditions of nomads.

The performance of the Russian Style Show Orchestra was a brilliant ending of the gala night. Famous musicians with virtuoso Russian folk instruments technique took the audience by storm with their electrifying performance of the world and Russian musical hits in folk-, rock- and jazz interpretation.

The Russia Day celebration took place within the framework of the program of jubilee events devoted to the 95th anniversary of GlavUpDK that will be marked in August this year. Acting Head of GlavUpDK Elena Ryabtseva assured the guests that the Main Administration will continue to do its best also in the future to create the maximally comfortable work and rest conditions for diplomatic missions in Moscow.

Following the good tradition, the soiree guests released into the sky white doves as a symbol of peace, kindness and love.