Russia appeals to Tajik authorities over Dushanbe Russian theatre

The Russian Foreign Ministry has expressed concern about the decision by authorities to demolish and move the Russian theatre in the Tajik capital, Dushanbe.

In a statement released last week, the Russian Foreign Ministry voiced criticism of plans to move the Mayakovsky Russian Drama Theatre to the outskirts of Dushanbe. In particular, the statement highlighted that the theatre constitutes a historical monument, noting that the founding of the Tajik Soviet Socialist Republic was declared there in 1929, in addition to concerns about the negative impact of the move upon theatre company’s work.

“We hope that the Dushanbe authorities will take necessary measures to ensure the continuation of the fruitful work of the troupe of the only Russian theatre in Dushanbe,” the statement read.

The plans form part of a wider project to construct modern buildings in the Tajik capital, many at the expense of popular landmarks, which now face possible demolition. In October last year, hundreds of Dushanbe residents signed an online petition to President Emomali Rahmon and Dushanbe Mayor Mahmadsaid Ubaidulloyev in an attempt to save the buildings.

Source: ASIA-Plus