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Putin congratulates maestro Gergiev on his 65th birthday

Putin noted that Gergiev makes a unique contribution to preserving Russia’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage

MOSCOW, May 2. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated world-acclaimed maestro Valery Gergiev, the artistic director and chief conductor of the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg, on his 65th birthday on Wednesday, the Kremlin press service said.

"Both in Russia and around the world you are known as an outstanding conductor and head of one of the world’s major musical theaters," the president said in his telegram, calling Gergiev "an extraordinary and creative person."

Putin noted that Gergiev makes a unique contribution to preserving Russia’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev also congratulated Gergiev on Wednesday praising his unique art of conductor. "You are a person not only of a versatile talent but also incredible energy, creative pursuit and constant movement. You give concerts in different cities and countries, you conduct orchestras, light up new starts of performers, and hold landmark festivals," he said.

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