African state marks Russia’s Flag Day (VIDEO)
The West African nation of Mali joined Russia in celebrating Russia’s National Flag Day, which is observed annually on August 22. A colorful event was held in the capital Bamako with horseback performances, music, and dance.
The celebration, organized by the Russian House and a local equestrian club, featured young horseback riders in shirts bearing the tricolor and performers showcasing traditional dances to the popular Russian song ‘Matushka-Zemlya’ (‘Mother Earth’).
Aliou Tounkara, a member of Mali’s National Transitional Council and the Head of the Russian House in Mali, extended his greetings to Russians: “Dear friends, I congratulate you on this famous holiday – the Day of the Flag of the Russian Federation. We are grateful to Russia. Long live Russian-Malian friendship!”
The Russian tricolor has its origins in the 18th century, though it was abandoned after the Russian Revolution in 1917 before being reinstated after the collapse of the Soviet Union. National Flag Day was established in 1994 by Boris Yeltsin to honor the revival of the white-blue-red banner.
In 2000, President Vladimir Putin signed a law establishing the modern design, with white representing freedom and independence, blue standing for faith and loyalty, and red symbolizing statehood and strength.
The holiday is marked with official ceremonies, parades, and concerts nationwide.
