
«It is in Europe’s long term interest to engage with Russia» as former Minister Conor Lenihan says.

In the greetings addressed to the guests of the ball, Russian Ambassador to Ireland Yury Filatov had mentioned:«Over the years, our countries have accumulated valuable experience of mutual understanding and partnership, based on reciprocal adherence to the development of constructive political dialogue, mutually beneficial trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian links as well as people-to-people contacts. Ties between Russia and Ireland date back deeper in history than just 45 years, marking many stories of mutual good will. It is my strong belief that this heritage will allow us to develop Russian-Irish relationship even further.
Russia and Ireland are both associated worldwide with a deep affinity for the arts and culture. It is, then, no surprise that each of them is widely appreciated in the other’s country. Hope that this Ball will contribute to our cultural and humanitarian connection and allow You to leave with a bit of warmth of the Russian soul in your heart.»
The Ambassador also added: «I would like to commend “The Russian Bridge” organization for their remarkable activity in promoting the Russian culture and language in Ireland, building bridges of friendship between Russian and Irish people.»
The performers at the ball were Latvian opera singer Julia Viljumane, dancers Alrksandra Bilgic and Helen Shyne, singer Elena Andreeva, musicians Anna Kiselyova, Lynda O’Connor, Ailbhe McDonagh. MC of the ball — Dmitry Vinokurov.
The proceeds from the donations and raffle were processed to Slav Vavro (https://www.gofundme.com/help-for-slav-rhabdomyosarcoma) and Yana Neverene (https://ie.gofundme.com/please-save-my-mam) who both fight cancer in Ireland. The proceeds from the auction went to the charity Greater Chernobyl Cause who had run the ball’s auction this year.