Putin: Moscow is the soul and engine of development in Russia

Putin said during an event held at the Zaryadye Concert Hall in central Moscow: “Preserving history, being open to everything new, caring for every citizen in Moscow, and being prepared to provide assistance to residents of other regions makes Moscow a strong, humane and hospitable city, and it is the spirit and engine of development in all of Russia.”

The President pointed out the role of Moscow's industry in ensuring the country's technological sovereignty, praised the work of its educational system, and said that the capital sets advanced standards for development in the social field, organizing public spaces, improving facilities, and preserving cultural heritage sites.

The President thanked Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin for his contribution to the development of the capital, and said: “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the residents of Moscow. With you, and with all the citizens of the country, we will overcome all difficulties and challenges. They are all temporary and fleeting. But Moscow, (like) Russia, is eternal.”

He also pointed out that the capital, like the rest of Russia, has mobilized its ranks to defend the homeland, with tens of thousands of Muscovites fighting in the special military operations zone.

City Day is celebrated in Moscow this year on September 5 and 6, when the city celebrates its 879th birthday.