Russia–Vietnam cultural center inaugurated in Saint Petersburg

Within the framework of her working visit to Russia starting July 22, Madame Ly joined the inauguration ceremony on Monday as part of initiatives commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

She described feeling honored and deeply moved to take part in the event, noting that multiple generations of Vietnamese officials, intellectuals, engineers, doctors, and artists have been educated at Russia’s prestigious institutions, including Herzen University.

She expressed her belief that the center will become a home for those committed to peace, culture, and friendship and a hub where students and admirers of Vietnam can delve into its people, language, arts, and cultural heritage.

In a world marked by upheaval and challenges, culture and arts remain a vital bond between individuals and nations, capable of conveying positive messages through music, film, theater, painting, sculpture, architecture, and literature, Madame Ly said.

She highlighted the significance of locating the center at Herzen University, an institution celebrated for its long-standing tradition and widespread influence.

Expressing confidence in the university’s robust development, Madame Ly said that it would remain a destination for Vietnamese students seeking to study and conduct research.

At the ceremony, Russian Deputy Minister of Education Andrey Korneev framed the inauguration as a pivotal milestone that reflects multifaceted collaboration between Vietnam and Russia.

Professor Sergey Tarasov, rector of Herzen University, emphasized that the establishment of the Russia–Vietnam Cultural Center is the result of decades of collaboration between the university and Vietnam.

He noted that dozens of Vietnamese students are currently enrolled in programs such as literature, art, culture, and history, and that a Vietnam alumni association has been formed to strengthen ties among former students.

Tarasov also expressed appreciation for the growing number of Russian students who are showing keen interest in the Vietnamese language and culture and are eager to learn more about Vietnam at Herzen.

Founded in 1797, Herzen University is one of the oldest and largest universities in Russia and remains a leader in pedagogical education.