36th World Congress

on Dance Research

To the organizers, participants and guests

of the 36^th World Congress of International Dance Council UNESCO

(Saint-Petersburg, October 30 – November 3, 2013)

Dear friends!

With a great pleasure I welcome you to the 36^th World Congress of International Dance Council UNESCO!

Dance is a unique form of expression of human creativity, which connects music and plastic. Dance represents the culture and tradition; it is an essential part of classic and folk arts.

It is gratifying, that the World Congress of International Dance Council is held in the northern capital of Russian Federation. Just over a year ago, the 36^th session of the World Heritage Committee under the Russian presidency was held for the first time in St. Petersburg – the cradle of cultural and historical heritage of our country. Helding such forums contributes to maintaining international prestige of Russia as one of the foremost cultural powers.

I wish all the participants and organizers of the World Congress successful and productive work, further creative growth, prosperity and well-being.