Vladimir Putin met with Talgat Tadzhuddin, the Supreme Mufti of Russia, at the Kremlin to discuss the significant role of Islamic leaders in promoting interfaith unity and the support of Muslim communities for Russia's military efforts. During the meeting, Putin expressed gratitude for the contributions made by the Islamic faith to the strength and coherence of Russian society.
"I would like to express my gratitude to you personally and to all representatives of Islam—those who practice Islam are an organic, natural part of Russia and Russian society—for the contribution you and other religious leaders make to interfaith unity and the agreement among the peoples of the RF," Putin stated. His remarks highlighted the importance of cultural and religious diversity as foundational elements of Russian society, particularly during challenging times.
During the meeting, Talgat Tadzhuddin presented Putin with symbolic gifts, including a shield and sword emblazoned with images of notable figures from Russian history, such as the Tatar poet Musa Jalil and the folk hero Ilya Muromets. Tadzhuddin explained, "The shield of the defender of the Fatherland reflects the core of Russia and the Bulgarian kingdom, and the Russian emperor is the first title, and the second title is Prince of Bulgaria and Prince of Kazan." He emphasized the deep historical roots of Islamic culture within the broader narrative of Russian identity.
Putin also acknowledged the bravery and heroism displayed by Muslim soldiers during military operations. "Muslims have demonstrated the best qualities. Just recently, I spoke with one of them—the deputy commander of the 810th brigade of the Black Sea Fleet. They fight bravely and heroically at almost all sections of the line of military contact," he noted. This acknowledgment served to reinforce the narrative of unity among different religious communities supporting the Russian state.
Tadzhuddin elaborated on the Muslim community's consistent support for the government, stating, "When you announced the special military operation, on the same day we held a broad online plenary meeting — and there was full support for the special operation." He reflected on the communal efforts of over 2200 Muslim communities who have been sending aid to support military activities, encapsulating the commitment of the Islamic community to national interests.
Through their dialogue, both leaders underscored the historical and contemporary significance of cooperation and solidarity across religious divides. Tadzhuddin shared the perspective of Muslims, conveying, "The Prophet Muhammad says: every state and nation has sacred places, and God's sacred places are humanity, which sails on one ship on the sea." This comment was aimed at fostering unity and resilience among the diverse groups within Russia.
The meeting at the Kremlin is part of broader attempts by the Russian government to bolster solidarity among its citizens, emphasizing the necessity of interfaith dialogue to address challenges faced by the nation. Putin and Tadzhuddin's exchange symbolizes the intertwining of governance and religious leadership as both parties seek to promote peace and stability within the federative framework of Russia.
Overall, this encounter highlights the pivotal role played by religious leaders like Tadzhuddin not only as moral figures within their communities but also as key stakeholders in national discussions and actions. The partnership between the state and religious institutions appears to be pivotal, especially as Russia navigates its current geopolitical challenges.