PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar was treated to a Christmas celebration, Russian style, on Wednesday, at the Pegasus Hotel, hosted by the Russian business community in Guyana, together with the Embassy of the Russian Federation. The Head of State was given a warm welcome by Russian Ambassador Nikolay Smirnov and introduced to Uncle Frost and the Snow Maiden, two of the relatives of Santa Claus that are prominent characters in Russia’s Christmas folklore.
As the tradition mandates, the Head of State joined Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, other Cabinet colleagues and members of the diplomatic corps in the chant “Christmas Tree light up” before the Christmas tree was lit.
The celebration included a quiz and lottery that rewarded winners with gift-wrapped prizes. Toasts were proposed to the future successes of the governments of Russia and Guyana, and best wishes for the holiday season.
The Russian Ambassador, in his remarks, said he was thankful for the level of diplomacy that exists between the two countries, indicating that Russia, like Guyana, recently concluded general elections and the outcome was similar.
“We have right now all the opportunities for a good celebration,” Ambassador Smirnov said.