The key facts

  • According to Rustam Minnikhanov, there are more than 20 million Muslims in Russia
  • The cultural zone 'Russian Space' with the Istiqlal Mosque has opened in Jakarta
  • Earlier, Patriarch Kirill awarded Mufti Albir Krganov an order in honor of his 50th birthday

Statement in Jakarta

The number of Muslims in Russia exceeds 20 million and continues to grow, said Rustam Minnikhanov, head of Tatarstan, during a visit to Jakarta, his words are reported by Gazeta.Ru citing RIA Novosti. According to him, the number of mosques in the country is also increasing.

Cultural zone and the history of Islam

The statement was prompted by a visit to Indonesia, where the cultural zone 'Russian Space' opened, including the Istiqlal Mosque. Minnikhanov emphasized that its opening will allow introducing the people of Indonesia to the history of Islam in Russia. 'It is important for us to tell such a large Muslim country that Islam did not come to us today: 1,100 years ago it was already adopted at the state level on our territory, and in some territories of the Caucasus even earlier,' he noted.

Context

Gazeta.Ru also recalls recent events related to religious life in Russia: Patriarch Kirill congratulated the head of the Spiritual Assembly of Muslims of Russia, Mufti Albir Krganov, on his 50th birthday and presented him with the church Order of Glory and Honor, 2nd class — in honor of the anniversary and 10 years as chairman of the SAMR. Earlier, the mufti himself explained why Muslims should not keep dogs at home, while livestock is permitted.