Lucerne, Switzerland, hosts World Congress of Russian Press

At the opening ceremony, Russian Minister of Telecom and Mass Communications Igor Shchyogolev read a message of greetings from President Dmitry Medvedev to the forum participants. "Your annual meetings have made a significant contribution to the consolidation of an information space by bringing the history, culture and modern life of Russia not only to millions of our compatriots, but also to anyone interested. "The World Congress of the Russian Press has played a significant role in disseminating Russian culture, an integral part of the spiritual heritage of humankind. It provides a good opportunity to enhance professional ties, exchange professional experience, and discuss projects for the creation of new media and an expanding readership. "I am confident that this forum, full of informative presentations and discussions, will be remembered for your active and open discussion of issues, ones that are important for both Russian and international media. It will assist the implementation of measures to support compatriots abroad and strengthen cultural and educational contacts," Medvedev said. The president wished the forum participants success and fruitful work. The World Congress of the Russian Press is an open international non-governmental independent organization uniting print and electronic media, agencies, publishers, editorial offices, TV and radio programs in Russian; Kazinform cites Itar-Tass. See www.itar-tass.com for full version.