Russia and Republic of the Congo Explore New Horizons in Humanitarian Cooperation

By Dr MASIMBA MAVAZA

Russia and the Republic of the Congo have taken significant steps to strengthen their humanitarian cooperation as shown from a recent telebridge organized by the Russian-African Club at Lomonosov Moscow State University.

The event brought together representatives from government bodies, politicians, scientists, activists, and journalists from both nations to discuss new opportunities for collaboration.

The telebridge, titled “Russia – Republic of the Congo: New Prospects for Humanitarian Cooperation,” took place at the Faculty of Global Studies at Lomonosov Moscow State University.

Alexander Fyodorovich Berdnikov, Executive Secretary of the Russian-African Club, kicked off the event. He highlighted the club’s role in promoting African culture and education in Russia.

Berdnikov noted that the Russian-African Club is helping to open the Museum of African Cultures in Moscow, set to open in 2026-2027. This museum aims to preserve and share African culture and art, showcasing art collections from various African countries and folk crafts that reflect the rich heritage of African peoples.

Vladimir Viktorovich Kochetkov, Head of the Department of Social Global Processes and Youth Work, welcomed attendees. He pointed out the increasing number of Congolese students enrolling in Russian universities. He also mentioned that Russian education remains open to learners from African nations and expressed hope that the telebridge would enhance cooperation between Russia and the Republic of the Congo.

Louis Gouend, Director of the Commission for Diaspora and Media Relations at the Russian-African Club, also welcomed participants. He expressed optimism that African graduates of Russian universities would play key roles in joint initiatives between Russia and Africa. He stressed the need for cultural exchange and collaboration to promote mutual understanding and growth.

The event included discussions on various aspects of cooperation between Russia and the Republic of the Congo, such as education, science, youth development, and food security.

Ivan Shalov from Rossotrudnichestvo reported a growing interest in Russian education in the Republic of the Congo, especially in the fields of medicine and pharmacy.

Participants also talked about the upcoming Russia-Africa Business Forum, set for October 15 in Moscow. Louis Gouend expressed hope that the forum would strengthen partnerships between Russia and Africa. The forum plans to gather business leaders, investors, and government officials to explore investment opportunities and encourage trade between the two regions.

The telebridge underscored the importance of cultural exchange and cooperation in enhancing understanding and development. Maria Albertovna Shakhurutdinova, Director of the “Russian House” in Brazzaville, noted the vital role of Congolese graduates of Russian universities in fostering cultural ties.

The event concluded by emphasizing that the telebridge format offers a valuable space for open dialogue and collaboration between Russia and the Republic of the Congo, with potential for growth to include other African countries.

Participants expressed their belief that the telebridge would help develop strong cooperation between Russia and the Republic of the Congo, promoting understanding and mutual respect between the two nations.

This telebridge marked a significant move toward strengthening humanitarian cooperation. It showcased the commitment of both countries to fostering mutual understanding and development through education, science, and cultural exchange.

As these two nations continue to seek new opportunities for humanitarian cooperation, their partnership is likely to positively influence the lives of people in both countries.