A 3rd year student from the Department of Regional Studies and International Economies of the Faculty of International Relations Yana Androsova went on an academic trip to Kazan between 17 and 21 May. She took part in two events: the XIV International Economic Forum “Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum” 2023 and the final of the 6th international contest of scientific and analytic studies of the Middle East – the Primakov Contest.
Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum is the main platform for economic cooperation between the Russian Federation and the countries of the Islamic world. This year the forum was attended by 16,000 participants from 80 countries and 86 regions of Russia. The programme included 150 sessions and 40 diplomatic missions.
“KazanForum is a huge event. Seeing diplomats from the countries comprising the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the key political figures in Russia is a great incentive and a chance to make contacts that can be useful for further professional development. I had a chance to attend the session of young diplomats from OIC countries, which was highly praised. We also visited the EXPO exhibition and learned about the development of the halal industry all over the world”, said Yana Androsova.
One of the main objectives of the Primakov Contest is to find promising young specialists studying the Middle East and to create a platform for expert communication.
“This trip was a great success. It was a victory. In the final, the jury were presented with the best projects. I can’t say how happy I am that my article was among the top 18 (out of more than 100!). I had a chance to meet experts and colleagues from Syria, Lebanon, and Iran, as well as from Russia. I am grateful to the Primakov and Gorchakov funds for organising this trip. I also want to say thank you to my research advisor Maxim Kirchanov for his invaluable assistance in writing the article”, said the student.
