Valentina Matviyenko

“St. Petersburg is a gem of world culture and Russia's most European city.”

“I do not believe in populism. I am not a supporter of radical decisions. Practice has shown that usually these are harmful.”

“The mentality of the Russian demands a lord, a czar, a president.”

“Everyone in my country understands that Russia cannot do without Europe and that, vice versa, Europe cannot do without Russia. We depend on cooperation.”

“Of course the United States and Russia have different interests. Nevertheless, both are strategic partners.”