Russian compatriots from European and North American countries have gathered in Turkey, reports the Moscow Government. Today, on April 20th, a regional conference began its work in Istanbul, marking the eighteenth such event. Participants include Russians from nearly forty countries. Representatives from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Rosmolodezh, members of the Federation Council, representatives from the Foundation for the Support and Protection of the Rights of Compatriots, the Committee on External Relations of St. Petersburg, and the Moscow Department of External Economic and International Relations have also joined. The main theme of the discussion will be the preservation of traditional spiritual and moral values. Delegates will also discuss the situation of the Russian community in Europe and North America and the processes of consolidation of the Russian community. The forum will also address issues related to the preparation for the World Congress of Compatriots, which will take place in Moscow this fall.