PUGUS, September 18, 2008, Asia-Plus -- We consider the 3rd forum of the CIS creative and scientific intelligentsia as in important event not only for our country but also for all CIS states, President Emomali Rahmon remarked, addressing the 3rd forum of the CIS intelligentsia at the Varzob governmental residence Pugus today.   

The Tajik head of state noted that integration of states begins with bringing closer cultures, literature, science and education of the peoples.  According to him, integration processes that have taken place in the territory of Europe over the past fifty years and brought to creation of the European Union have provided that truth.  

According to him, the present cultural ties between the CIS countries do not meet requirements of their peoples.  He expressed hope that issues that will be discussed at the forum will promote further expansion of not only cultural but also economic, social and humanitarian ties between the CIS states.  

In the meantime, speaking to reporters in Pugus, Mikhail Shvydkoy, Adviser to the Russian President for International and Cultural Cooperation Issues, said that the results of Year of Reading within the CIS Area will be summed up at the forum.  

Besides, the Russian side intends to raise the issue of protection of historical and cultural relics in the armed conflict zones, Shvydkoy said.  According to him, the forum participants intend to apply to the CIS heads of state for further expansion of cultural ties within the CIS area.