At the Russian embassy in Kigali, the Russian ambassador today joins his countrymen around the world in Diplomat’s Day celebrations.

In October 2002, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree naming February 10 Diplomat’s Day. The holiday recognizes the importance of diplomats the state, society and the world as a whole.

In an interview, the Russian ambassador to Rwanda, Mirgayas Shirinskiy, said that patriotism, an understanding of national interests and an ability to correlate diplomacy, have an intransient significance, and must be cherished and promoted.

"The present generation of diplomats lives and works in an era of tremendous changes on the international scene. Therefore, the future of the world largely depends on what kind of international relationship it will be," the ambassador said.

With reference to Russia’s diplomatic efforts in Africa, Shirinskiy spoke of a commitment to international development. "Russia advocates an effective combination of international aid and efficient measures put in place by Africans themselves."

"Russia shares the view that the governments of African countries must shoulder primary responsibility for overcoming poverty and underdevelopment of their nations."

This said he believes that "radical improvement of socioeconomic conditions in Africa will be possible only if the international community takes resolute and concerted action to facilitate their development."

Today, the ambassador and Russian citizens will celebrate the new system of international relations that is being born.

Ends