Unseen

The major political event of 2006 in Russia was the Summit of the Big Eight that took place in St. Petersburg in July 2007. During those three hot summer days on the Russian Baltic shores, in comfort and security, the heads of the leading world powers met to discuss the problems of mankind. During this time the life of normal people became very unpleasant, i.e. military patrols in the streets, checking of passports, barred roads, helicopters continuously fl ying overhead, the howling of sirens, and armed escorts. All of this created the impression that the city was besieged. Unfortunately the largest cemetery in the city is situated on the way to the meeting place. In order not to confront the honorable guests with the sight of mortality, this cemetery was closed for the duration of the Summit. With typical Russian resignation and understanding numerous relatives waited patiently until the end of the Summit to be able to bury their deceased.