"VI Week of Russian Diplomacy" Launches at the Regional Centre for the Development of Public Diplomacy and International Relations named after Yevgeniy M. Primakov

On April 22, 2025, the Primakov Center inaugurated the "VI Week of Russian Diplomacy," with this year’s theme focusing on sports diplomacy.

This significant event brought together experts, diplomats, athletes, and government representatives committed to advancing international cooperation and promoting Russia’s positive image through sports.

The opening ceremony featured welcoming addresses by distinguished guests, whose remarks set the tone for the entire week.

Mikhail Mikhailovich Leonov, Vice-Rector for Educational Work and Youth Policy at Samara University, inaugurated the event by highlighting the university’s role in training specialists in international relations and stressing the importance of sports diplomacy for youth.

Yevgeny Alexandrovich Primakov, Head of Rossotrudnichestvo, emphasized the pivotal role of public diplomacy, particularly sports diplomacy, in strengthening humanitarian ties and shaping an objective image of Russia abroad. He noted that "sport is a universal language understood by all nations."

Mikhail Vladimirovich Degtyaryov, Minister of Sports and President of the Russian Olympic Committee, underscored the immense potential of sports diplomacy in advancing Russian interests globally. He reaffirmed Russia’s openness to sports collaboration based on principles of fairness and mutual respect.

Dmitry Valentinovich Abramov, Head of the Investment and Innovation Policy Department at the Ministry of Economic Development and Investments of Samara Region, emphasized that sports not only promote health and achievements but also serve as a catalyst for economic growth and regional investment.

Alexey Valeryevich Chupakhin, Representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Samara, highlighted the importance of cooperation between the Ministry and regional authorities in implementing foreign policy objectives. He described sports diplomacy as an effective tool for strengthening international ties at the regional level.

The first day of the "VI Week of Russian Diplomacy" featured a panel discussion titled "Sports Diplomacy: Theory and Practice Through the Prism of History." Experts explored the role of sports diplomacy in fostering international dialogue and shared insights from successful projects.

Anna Alexeevna Velikaya, Ph.D. in Political Science and Senior Researcher at IMEMO RAS, presented a report on "The Role of Russian Sports Diplomacy in Strengthening International Dialogue." She emphasized sport’s capacity to bridge political divides and build trust between nations, citing historical examples of Russia’s successful sports diplomacy initiatives.

Anna Nikolaevna Subbotina, President of the Autonomous Non-Profit Organization "Commonwealth of Sports Diplomacy," discussed the "BRICS+ International Youth Forum on Sports Diplomacy: Outcomes and Development Prospects." She shared results from the forum, which served as a platform for young BRICS+ leaders to exchange ideas, and outlined future opportunities for youth collaboration in this field.

Kira Viktorovna Tabunova, expert at the ASEAN Center of MGIMO University under the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, delivered a report titled "Southeast Asian Games: Diversity of Traditions and Regional Unity." She elaborated on how sports events in ASEAN countries strengthen regional identity and cultural exchange.

In summary, sports diplomacy is a complex and multifaceted process requiring professional expertise and historical awareness. Sport has the potential to become a powerful instrument for fostering global peace and cooperation.

Text: Guzaliya Shakurova, Group 5201-460401D

Photos: Alexander Zaitsev, Group 5301-460301D