International cooperation: The Russian Historical Society and the National Archive of Finland have signed a memorandum of cooperation

The Russian Historical Society and the National Archive of Finland have signed a memorandum of cooperation as part of the celebration to the centennial of the World War I and a century of independence of Finland.

On the Russian side the document was signed by the Chairman of the Russian Historical Society, State Duma Speaker Sergei Naryshkin who is in Finland with official visit and on the Finnish side – Director General of the National Archive of Finland Jussi Nuortev.

In the memorandum it is stated that the popularization of historical knowledge contributes to the formation of national and world development based on the lessons of the past. It is emphasized the mutual interest to the study and preservation of the common historical heritage of the peoples of Russia and Finland.

In addition, the sides agreed that they would contribute to the mutual access to information funds and databases, share documents, print media and to cooperate in the preparation and the activities related to significant events and memorable dates in the history of bilateral relations and in the world history. Sergei Naryshkin said that of great interest was the World War I, a century of the beginning of which would be celebrated next year.

According to him, the Russians Historical Society has been active in preparing for this event. He urged the Finnish colleagues to get involved. The World War I, added the speaker, was almost forgotten for ideological reasons in the XX century in Russia.

Naryshkin also emphasized that of a great interest is the coming century independence of Finland. Finland purchased it in 1917, just after the October Revolution in Russia. These events, according to the Chairman of the State Duma, have a close relationship. The Finnish side, in turn, invited Naryshkin next year to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Finland-Russia Society, in celebration of the anniversary of which the President of Finland has agreed to take part in.