A Word from the Co-Chairs

Russia is the largest nation in the world, covering 11 time zones, and is the richest in natural resources. The United States has the world's strongest economy. With common purpose, there's little these two nations cannot accomplish.

Since the birth of Russian democracy in the early 90’s, that common purpose is within reach. But it will take effort and continued good relations. The citizens of Vancouver are working to contribute significantly to improving those relations. Since Chkalov’s 1937 flight that brought three brave Russian flyers to Vancouver, Russia has viewed our community as a cultural gateway to America. Our community in turn has extended its hand in friendship to countless Russian visitors who wanted to see the famous spot where their "Lindbergh" and national heroes landed.

From ambassadors, governors and famous cosmonauts to ordinary tourists, Russians come to Vancouver to pay tribute to their heroes and the monument raised to them by ordinary Vancouver/Portland citizens. A mutual warmth and friendship has developed over the years between those Russians and this community.

It is the purpose of Chkalov Cultural Exchange Committee to expand those feelings of friendship to include a wider circle of citizens, develop more areas of contact between us, and to make this unique Vancouver tie with Russia a permanent and unforgettable element of this community's life. More specifically, the mission of our Committee is to use Valery Chkalov's record-breaking flight and his prescient two-river metaphor ("like the Columbia and the Volga, which flow on the same planet and make up elements of the same world ocean, so too must the peoples of Russia and the United States, with cooperative work, beautify this ocean of human life.") to bring more Russians and Americans together in peace and friendship--to promote American-Russian understanding through social, cultural, athletic, educational,. business and governmental activities and contacts.

The Chkalov Cultural Exchange Committee has witnessed the warmth and friendship generated by friendly visits over the years based on Chkalov’s record-breaking flight. The Committee is certain that with growing citizen awareness of the role they can play, this community will continue to make significant contributions to improved American-Russian relations. We therefore extend a warm welcome to all who wish to join, or financially support, our organization and who share our belief that Vancouver can continue to take advantage of it's unique opportunity to improve American-Russian relations.