FBA EAC Experts Discuss Cultural and Economic Diplomacy at the All-Russian Patriotic Forum
On December 9, within the framework of the All-Russian Four-Day Patriotic Forum, titled "Heroes Through the Ages", a panel discussion was held titled "Cultural-Economic Cooperation: A Tool of Soft Power Diplomacy on the World Stage". The event brought experts and international guests together to explore how cultural and economic cooperation enhances the country's position on the world stage.
Our participants included Tudor Afanasov, a member of the FBA EAC Board and the head of the association's representative office in Romania, and Louis Gouend, partner of FBA EAC and president of the African business club, as well as an expert on the State Duma council for the development of economic cooperation with foreign countries. The experts shared their perspectives on joint economic initiatives, cultural exchanges, and how they foster trust between nations and serve as an effective tool in contemporary diplomacy.
The session was opened by Maria Zakharova, the Director of the Information and Press Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She extended a warm welcome to international participants and emphasized the importance of public diplomacy and humanitarian contact in the current geopolitical situation. She highlighted the role of these forums in promoting direct dialogue.
This year's All-Russian Patriotic Forum convened more than 4,000 participants, including over 60 foreign delegates from Belarus, Cuba, Abkhazia, Kazakhstan, India, and China. The forum concluded the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Victory. The primary focus was on honoring Russia's heroic legacy and present, preserving historical memory, and countering misinformation. The participation of FBA EAC experts underscores the growing influence of the business and humanitarian community in achieving strategic national objectives and enhancing the country's international standing.Image Source: Official photographic archive of the All-Russia Patriotic Forum