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The President of the Republic attended the 6th World Gathering of Natives of Vilsandi11.07.2003
 President Arnold Rüütel today opened the 6th World Gathering of Natives of Vilsandi. He said in his opening address that Vilsandi could be compared with a small model of Estonia for the inhabitants of Vilsandi, too, had suffered much from the tempests of history and several of them had been forced to leave their homes. At the same time, he hoped that those having seen the world would return home and applied their knowledge and experience for the benefit of their island.
After the opening ceremony of the gathering, the President of the Republic took part in a bee helping to repair the main road of Vilsandi.
Before noon, the President of the Republic and Mrs Ingrid Rüütel talked with islanders about the Small Islands Act. Laine Tarvis, one of the authors of the corresponding bill, and Hans Teiv, Acting County Governor of Saaremaa, also took part in the conversation.
The participants in the conversation noted that our islands were a special natural and cultural heritage community that should be preserved and developed in every respect. At the same time, the development potential of the islands should be secured by the state aid, for instance, the state on its part should offer appropriate mainland connections and adequate education. Also the need to advance information technology in order to enable distant working and to enhance chances of earning one's living with traditional lines of trade and culture was emphasized. They came to the conclusion that while working out implementing legislation the distinctiveness of each island had to be taken into consideration.
The President of the Republic and Mrs Ingrid Rüütel in addition called at the farm of writer and actor Jaan Tätte, the home of Arvo Kullapere, the farm of Jaan Teär, and the local lighthouse.
This evening, the President of the Republic will receive athletes of Saaremaa having among representatives of 24 islands successfully performed at the 7th International Islands Games in Guernsey.
Tomorrow, on the last day of the tour, the President is going to visit the Island of Abruka.
Office of the President
Kadriorg, July 11, 2003
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