The heads of state of the Commonwealth of Independent States adopted a Statement on Preserving Historical Memory. The document was signed on October 9, 2026, at a meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of State in the Awaza National Tourist Zone.

The Statement notes that preserving historical memory serves as an effective means of countering any manifestations of discrimination, racism, xenophobia, and all forms of intolerance. In the view of the parties, knowledge of history helps to timely identify and counter attempts to distort the past and to spread disinformation and extremism that undermine the foundations of peaceful coexistence.

Leaders of the Commonwealth countries acknowledged the need for a critical assessment of the complex interconnections between the past, present, and future, as well as the need to ensure the historical accuracy of historical interpretations based on a thorough study of sources and historical works.

"We call upon the international community to join forces to preserve historical memory and historical truth; to strengthen peace, mutual respect, and trust among nations; to pass on to future generations the experience of peaceful and constructive cooperation in accordance with universally recognized norms of international law; and to consistently adhere to the principle of the inadmissibility of the glorification of Nazism, fascism, and other destructive ideologies," the document states.

The CIS states intend to expand cooperation in the field of historical education based on the principles of open, honest, professional, and depoliticized dialogue. To this end, plans are in place to promote commemorative dates; preserve historical and memorial sites that reflect significant milestones in the development of relations between Commonwealth countries; organize specialized events; and expand and deepen contacts among scholars, archivists, archaeologists, and search, youth, and volunteer movements.

Furthermore, the Statement addresses the development of cooperation within the framework of the International Association (Commission) of Historians and Archivists of the CIS Member States, as well as the promotion of joint initiatives to preserve historical memory in universal and regional international forums.