Remarks by Mr. Dmitry Chumakov, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the United Nations, at the Memorial Wreath Laying Ceremony in honour of the Alexandrov Ensemble and others who perished at Christmas, 2016
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Dear friends,
We are pleased to welcome those who are here today to honour a blessed memory of victims of the plane crash which took place on 26th December 2016 near Sochi. Three years ago the world lost a legendary Alexandrov Ensemble, media workers from leading Russian TV-channels and a famous philanthropist Elizaveta Glinka well-known for her humanitarian activity. They were on their way to Syria with a noble mission to bring Christmas and New Year mood to the war-torn country.
The Russian mission to the UN is grateful to the Schiller Institute and the Fire Department of Bayonne for having organized this ceremony for the third time. Now we may already say that it has become our proud annual tradition. This memorial event is a great example of a warm human contact and solidarity between people of the two countries which we need to move forward.
The Alexandrov Ensemble has been reconstituted. New performers and singers do their best to meet the highest standards set up by their honorable predecessors. The humanitarian projects launched by Elizaveta Glinka are implemented by her followers. We have made a great progress against terrorism in Syria, we have made every effort to help alleviate the humanitarian situation in the country and bring all Syrians back to their homes. We hope that a sustainable political settlement will be achieved in the near future. All that means that principles and goals that were fundamental for the victims are still relevant, and it is our common responsibility to continue on that noble course.
And again, best tribute to these brave and merciful people who are our modern-day heroes, new symbols of patriotism and humanity. May their souls rest in peace. Thank you for joining us today.
