ST. PETERSBURG, September 24. /TASS/. Representatives of 70 countries are taking part in the 12th St. Petersburg International United Cultures Forum, Russian Culture Minister Olga Lyubimova told TASS.

"This year’s forum continues its tradition of broad international professional participation -- more than 40 official delegations are taking part in the reception for representatives of foreign countries’ cultural agencies alone, with 70 countries participating overall," she said.

According to the minister, the forum traditionally brings together cultural figures, experts, heads of cultural institutions, filmmakers, opinion leaders, government officials and representatives of international organizations from the CIS, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. "This year, our commonality amid diverse cultures will be the central theme of the discussions. Russia has always welcomed countries that respect our culture, traditions and historical path," she added.

She also said that the forum’s main results are assessed primarily by the quality of joint work. "At the same time, we assess the forum’s main results primarily by the quality of joint work - it is important for us that its broad geographical reach provides for substantive discussion and practical solutions," the minister concluded.

The St. Petersburg International United Cultures Forum is being held on September 24-26. Its main theme is "United Cultures - Shared Values." The forum features 10 thematic sections.

TASS is the forum’s general information partner.