In his video message, the President of the Russian Geographical Society Sergei Shoigu congratulated all like-minded people on the 180th anniversary of the RGS and on Geographer’s Day, which since 2020 has been celebrated on the foundation day of the Society.
Sergei Shoigu stressed that throughout its history, the Russian Geographical Society has remained faithful to its mission to serve the interests of the homeland. The RGS brought together travelers and politicians, teachers and journalists, scientists and thinkers. It was obvious to everyone that «geography in every sense played a key role in the life of the state.» Therefore, August 18 is «a landmark date for everyone who is interested in exploring, learning, and understanding Russia.» This is the founding day of the Russian Geographical Society, Geographer’s Day in Russia and Geographer’s Day of the BRICS countries.
«Everything that the RGS does is about love and interest in Russia. And none of these projects can be imagined without you, a large, tireless team of like-minded people from the RGS. Without those who stand under the flag of the RGS. You’re living a real life filled with eternal meanings that money can’t buy. You inspire people around you to do good deeds. And that’s why each of us can say: the day has not been lived in vain, and tomorrow there will be new victories. Everything is just beginning,» Sergei Shoigu said in a video message.
Video message from the President of the Russian Geographical Society Sergei Shoigu (in Russian)
Sergei Shoigu was elected President of the Russian Geographical Society in 2009. Since then, he has been re-elected twice: in 2014 at the XV Congress of the RGS and in 2020 at the XVI Congress of the RGS.
Since taking office, Sergei Shoigu has begun actively supporting the Society’s expeditionary, publishing, and educational activities. He initiated the creation of the RGS Youth Club, supported such large-scale projects as the Geographical Dictation, «The Most Beautiful Country» photo contest, and the RGS Festival.
Today, the RGS has more than 29,700 members in Russia and abroad. Regional branches of the Society operate in all 89 regions of the Russian Federation. Thousands of volunteers take part in the Society’s expeditions. Millions of people attend the Society’s exhibitions, lectures, and film screenings every year.