Russian president calls for interethnic unity. Speaking at a Council event in the republic of Bashkortostan, one of the most ethnically-diverse in Russia, President Dmitry Medvedev encouraged all cultures toward the shared respect of a unified nation. He also called on media members to ensure a constructive tone in their use of vocabulary and language. Saying that education is also key to promoting acceptance, the president said that materials such as school books as well as teaching approaches must be revised along with efforts to increase literacy rates, a matter that he hope to address by introducing a new bill soon. In addition, the president expressed his support of multiculturalism not only in Russia but throughout Europe, highlighting the success of Bashkortostan, where 130 nationalities live cordially side-by-side.

President Dmitry Medvedev (speaking in Russian): We have to remember our common history and our common traditions. At the same time, people don't have to give up their roots and think that if a tradition cannot be fitted into the mainstream then it must vanish. That is very dangerous thinking. I think Europeans should understand that and, of course, so should we, because the number of ethnic groups living in Russia's is bigger than that of most European states.

Our appreciation, Your Excellency for these beneficial goals that bring together people while improving lives. Blessed be such efforts to encourage tranquil relations of respect among people of all cultures in Russia and around the world.

http://rt.com/politics/medvedev-interethnic-state-council/ http://rt.com/politics/medvedev-interethnic-state-council/
http://www.itar-tass.com/eng/level2.html?NewsID=15948046&PageNum=0 http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v5/newsbusiness.php?id=563305