Russia calls for reviving cultural ties with Azerbaijan

Cultural and humanitarian ties between Russia and Azerbaijan have weakened in recent years and need to be revitalised, a senior Russian Foreign Ministry official said.

In an interview with TASS, Mikhail Kalugin, Director of the Fourth CIS Department at Russia’s Foreign Ministry, stressed that sustainable cooperation between the two countries depends on maintaining strong links in cultural and humanitarian spheres.

“Recently, unfortunately, these are the areas where we have ‘sagged,’ and now it is time to intensify them,” he said, underscoring the need to restore momentum in bilateral engagement beyond political and economic relations.

Kalugin outlined several potential initiatives aimed at strengthening ties. These include the creation of a joint university in Azerbaijan based on St. Petersburg State University, as well as the establishment of schools affiliated with the embassies of both countries in Moscow and Baku. He also noted ongoing discussions about installing monuments in Russia and Azerbaijan dedicated to prominent figures from both nations.

“We have promising projects, such as the creation of a joint university in Azerbaijan based on St. Petersburg State University, the establishment of schools at the embassies of the two countries in Moscow and Baku. There are ideas regarding the reciprocal installation in Russia and Azerbaijan of monuments to outstanding figures of our states,” Kalugin said.

The diplomat also pointed to public demand for renewed cultural exchanges, including tours by artistic groups, as well as the organization of youth and interregional forums.

“In short, there is a lot to do. It is important that both sides understand the need to intensify work in this area and make up for lost time,” he added.

By Tamilla Hasanova