Alexei Mordashov, general director of Severstal, and Igor Ghuravlev, the trade union leader, signed a decree on the celebration of the 57^th anniversary of the Victory in the World War II.

According to the decree, 5,000 employees, who are World War II participants, widows of perished soldiers, participants in the Leningrad blockade and other employees and retired metallurgists will receive financial aid.

A number of activities are planned to pay respect to the people who helped to free the country. Ceremonial activities began this morning with the imposition of wreaths to the Bayonets and other memorials attended by veterans of World War II, Severstal employees and company management. Over 800 veterans will attend a special concert and many more will take part in the festival at the stadium. A total of over 4,000 people will take part in the activities at Severstal's cultural and sports facilities. It is expected that all of them will also take part in the city-wide festivities on May 9.

A parade and a meeting will be held at the day preceding the national holiday. Severstal top management will lay a garland to the memorial in commemoration of soldiers, perished in World War II.