Second Day of the Northern Forum Delegation’s Work at the International Evenk Festival "Bakaldyn"
On June 19th, the Northern Forum delegation took part in the opening of the international Evenk festival "Bakaldyn." This year, the event brought together representatives of the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North, government authorities, public organizations, and the expert community from various regions of Russia, as well as guests from the People's Republic of China.
The grand opening took place on the banks of the Iengra River in the village of Iengra. Participants took part in traditional rituals and ceremonies that reflect the cultural values and centuries-old traditions of the Evenk people. The venue also hosted meetings and networking opportunities with representatives of Evenk communities, public organizations, and government officials.
As part of the events, working meetings were held with Mikhail Aleksandrovich Pogodaev, Deputy Minister for Arctic Development and Indigenous Peoples' Affairs of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), and Elena Khristoforovna Golomareva, Chair of the Standing Committee of the State Assembly (Il Tumen) of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) on Indigenous Small-Numbered Peoples of the North and Arctic Affairs. The discussions focused on supporting the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North, preserving their traditional way of life, and developing northern territories.
Following the opening in Iengra, the festival program continued in the Neryungri City Park. Welcoming remarks were delivered to the participants and guests by Aisen Sergeyevich Nikolaev, Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), and Maksim Viktorovich Tereshchenko, Acting Head of the Neryungrinsky District.
Throughout the day, various cultural and exhibition venues were open, featuring creative performances and events dedicated to the traditions and culture of the Evenk people. The international format of the festival provided excellent opportunities for participants from different regions and countries to get to know one another, exchange experiences, and discuss issues related to preserving the cultural heritage of the indigenous peoples of the North.