Russia and the Balkans are getting closer

On March 13-14, the 3rd International Economic Forum "Russia-Balkans in the Architecture of a Multipolar World. Prospects for Economic Integration" was held in Moscow. Representatives of the business and academic communities of the Russian Federation and the Balkan countries of Serbia, Republika Srpska, and others participated in the forum.

IvSU Rector Alexey Malygin and Vice-Rector Nikita Sorokin participated in the international forum. In his speech, Dr. Malygin spoke about the history of IvSU's cooperation with the Balkan countries, particularly emphasizing the importance and value of the partnership our university is developing with the University of East Sarajevo (Republika Srpska).

As a reminder, the Cooperation Agreement between the universities was signed on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in 2024. Today, IvSU and UES implement joint academic exchange programs, conduct summer schools for students, and organize joint scientific conferences.

As part of the forum, the Rector of Ivanovo State University met with Draga Mastilović, Minister of Scientific and Technological Development and Higher Education of the Republic of Srpska, during which an agreement was reached for the Minister to visit Ivanovo State University in the spring of 2026.

"Developing academic cooperation and strengthening partnerships with friendly countries in the Balkan region is one of the key priorities of Ivanovo State University's international activities. We are open to dialogue, ready to share experiences, and jointly create new educational and scientific products" emphasized Alexey Malygin.