Greetings on opening of 17th Youth Delphic Games of CIS Member States

The message reads, in part:

"The Delphic Games have gained broad recognition in the Commonwealth for a reason. This large-scale project helps young people find their path in the arts, develop creative skills, prove themselves on the international stage and get feedback from highly respected masters.

More than six hundred young man and women from all CIS countries will be taking part in various contest nominations. I am confident that the contestants will demonstrate their achievements in music, choreography, visual and vocal arts and will enjoy the opportunity to communicate with each other in an informal, friendly environment. This is very important for strengthening good traditions of friendship and neighbourliness that link our nations, and for preserving our common cultural and spiritual legacy. It is no coincidence that the Games are held in the Year of the Russian Language as the Language of Interethnic Communication in the Commonwealth Space.

I would like to sincerely thank all those who contributed to the preparation of the Delphic Games and wish their participants inspiration and success."