MOSCOW, July 2. /TASS/. The International Tchaikovsky Competition has always been and remains the pride of Russia, one of the most authoritative and recognizable contests in the world as people from all countries are united with love for the fabulous composer’s oeuvre and a high interest to this year’s competition has revealed society’s deep spiritual demand, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"The Tchaikovsky Music Competition has always been and remains the pride of Russia and one of the most authoritative and recognizable contests in the world," Putin said in the opening remarks at the 15th International Tchaikovsky Competition gala concert.