“I am glad to welcome you at the opening of the Dresden Opera Ball, which is being held for the second time in St. Petersburg, this year - in the ceremonial interiors of the Catherine Palace, which give special solemnity to today's holiday. It is timed to coincide with a significant date - the 60th anniversary of twinning relations between St. Petersburg and Dresden. We value such long-term, strong ties with our German friends, value the experience of interaction in various fields. And of course, culture and projects in the humanitarian sphere play an important role here, as well as the cities themselves - St. Petersburg and Dresden, which are the largest cultural centers in Europe and the world. We know that Richard Wagner, whose fate is closely connected with Dresden, staged his premiere operas at the Mariinsky Theater,and Shostakovich and Dostoevsky lived and created their works in this wonderful German city. I would like to sincerely thank Hans-Joachim Fry, founder of the Dresden Opera Ball, for his sincere love for Russia and for organizing this wonderful holiday where art and tradition, friendship and trust prevail, ”the president said.
Putin noted that "this wonderful atmosphere is created by all the participants and guests of the ball - and, of course, the leading Russian and foreign performers of opera and ballet, classical and popular music, world-renowned jazz musicians, famous artists and artists."
“I wish you bright, unforgettable impressions!
I am sure that the Dresden Ball in St. Petersburg will open up prospects for new joint projects and will contribute to the growth of friendly ties uniting the peoples of our countries, ”he added.
Earlier it was reported that Putin sent greetings to the participants, organizers and guests of the International Military Music Festival "Spasskaya Tower - 2021".
It was published on the Kremlin website.