A memorial sign commemorating the feat of Soviet soldiers during World War II and the inhabitants of besieged Leningrad appeared in Manchester. It was installed in a cenotaph on the central city square, RIA Novosti reports. Russian compatriots came forward with the initiative to establish a commemorative plaque, with assistance from the Russian embassy and the authorities of St. Petersburg.
The opening ceremony took place the day before, September 3. The action was timed to coincide with the end of the Second World War. It was joined by representatives of the city authorities, Russian diplomats, compatriots living in the city, and local residents.
The head of the Russian diplomatic mission in Britain, Andrei Kelin, is confident that the memorial sign will become another reminder of the fighting brotherhood of the peoples of both countries. The ambassador recalled that long before the opening of the Second Front in Europe, Arctic convoys were organized, en route from British and American ports to the northern ports of the Soviet Union with the goods the country needed.
Lord Mayor of Manchester Abid Latif Chohan noted that the city has a long history of relations with Russia. He expressed the hope that he managed to contribute to their strengthening and development.