Rustam Minnikhanov speaks at the 5th Global Forum of Young Diplomats in Kazan

On August 27, at the Korston Entertainment Complex in Kazan, Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov spoke at the solemn opening of the 5th Global Forum of Young Diplomats with participation of Chairman of the Council of Young Diplomats of the Russian Foreign Ministry Konstantin Kolpakov, Minister of Youth Affairs of Tatarstan Timur Suleymanov, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma of the Russian Federation Boris Chernyshov and other officials.

The forum takes place in Kazan for the first time. From August 26 to August 30, as many as 120 young employees of foreign affairs agencies from 42 countries will discuss the following issues: trends and challenges of diplomacy in modern conditions, digitalization, information and cyber security in international relations, horizontal diplomacy in the era of “cancel culture” and the future of integration associations.

Minnikhanov reminded that Kazan is hosting the Global Forum of Young Diplomats as the youth capital of the OIC. These days, the Kazan Global Youth Summit begins its work in the city and will be attended by many young diplomats.

He emphasized that Kazan has got a vast experience in hosting such events.

Tatarstan President said that in recent years the geography and formats of Tatarstan’s interaction with diplomatic representatives of the countries of the world have expanded. The Kazan Diplomatic Club, which brings together all foreign missions located in Kazan, has been established and is successfully operating. In addition, there is a tradition of joining diplomats-participants of forums of the OIC countries the diplomatic club «Friends of Tatarstan».

It is gratifying that, despite the current difficult circumstances, delegates from the foreign affairs agencies of many countries have gathered in the hall today. This is a clear indication of the interest in the upcoming discussions, the readiness for a mutually respectful dialogue and the search for common ground. The participation of invited experts, namely representatives of federal and regional authorities, academic circles, the business community and the general public is aimed at making contribution to the overall work.

According to Tatarstan President, the responsibility for the future of international relations falls largely on the shoulders of diplomats. In turn, successful results depend on overall training, established relations and focus on finding mutually beneficial conditions. “In this context, it is difficult to overestimate the importance, including for your professional development, of such dialogue platforms, which are based on the concept of horizontal diplomacy". I hope that the fifth Global Forum of Young Diplomats will be held in a traditionally constructive manner, will contribute to the establishment of useful contacts and the development of new creative initiatives», Minnikhanov added.

In his video address, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov emphasized the rich programme of the forum and its contribution to the development of friendly relations between the countries.

Chairman of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs Leonid Slutsky and Head of Federal Agency for CIS Affairs, Compatriots Living Abroad and International Humanitarian Cooperation Evgeny Primakov also addressed the forum participants with welcoming speech via video link.

For information:

The Global Forum of Young Diplomats is a unique discussion platform for young foreign officials from all over the world, where current challenges facing the international community and potential opportunities for cooperation are discussed.