The Russian foreign ministry officials believe the declaration will help focusing efforts on implementation of practical steps aimed at speeding up the process of humanitarian cooperation of CIS countries.
On May 8, leaders of CIS countries signed the Declaration at the conclusion of the summit in Moscow. The document is intended to become the basis for the development of multilateral cooperation in all humanitarian spheres, including culture, sciences, education, and work with the youth.
During his speech at the opening of the summit, the Russian President stated the support of the Declaration by the leaders of CIS countries "will give a serious boost to implementation of concrete measures in the development and expansion of direct human contacts on the CIS territory."
"I believe CIS countries, in a new historical situation and with the use of current opportunities, are capable of implementing rather fruitful, interesting and promising projects in the humanitarian sphere, which will bring our peoples significant advantages, and which are in high demand at present," the Russian leader said.
"It is culture, sciences, education and humanitarian cooperation that work effectively, in general, for the purpose of free interaction and closer ties between the peoples, for the creation of the atmosphere of mutual understanding, trust and respect," Putin believes.
"In such a way, we create conditions for dialogue and partnership in all spheres of international cooperation - in economy, politics, and other spheres," the Russian president underlined.
