Natalia Virtuozova outlines the aims and objectives of the National Centre RUSSIA to African journalists

---

Natalia Virtuozova, Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA, gave a presentation about the venue to participants in the joint International Press Centre, established at the National Centre RUSSIA to cover the Eighth Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) and the Third Russia–Africa Summit.

Natalia Virtuozova spoke about how, in just two years, the National Centre RUSSIA, established by order of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, has become one of the country's leading public spaces, bringing together major scientific and technological achievements, hosting key events and creating the conditions for global dialogue. She presented the Centre's main areas of activity, ranging from large-scale expositions and educational projects to business forums and international initiatives.

"The National Centre RUSSIA was created as a space that inspires pride in our country, and there is nothing like it anywhere else in the world. Business, educational and cultural events take place here — around 15 events every week, all of them completely free of charge for visitors. Our flagship exposition, 'Journey Across Russia', allows visitors to discover the natural, cultural, historical and technological wealth of every federal district of the country in a single visit. But most importantly, we want to show that behind every achievement are people. They are Russia's greatest asset. It is people who create, preserve and enrich the legacy that we proudly pass down from generation to generation," Natalia Virtuozova, Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA, emphasised.

Particular attention was devoted to the new National Centre RUSSIA building, which is scheduled to open on 4 November 2029. It will be an architectural landmark of global significance and a symbol of modern-day Russia. Its silhouette evokes a flowing veil, while its design will incorporate elements of traditional symbols and ornamental patterns from the country's peoples. Key features of the project include multimedia facades and a roof whose imagery and lighting will adapt to the events taking place. A panoramic amphitheatre will allow events to be held in all weather conditions and accommodate up to 10,000 people, while a landscaped park will surround the building. The complex will have a total floor area of more than 205,000 square metres.

"The new National Centre RUSSIA building embodies the idea of unity in diversity. Its concept is rooted in love and a sense of community, history and traditions, culture and art. The warmth of the family hearth and the spirit of hospitality create an atmosphere of openness, while the pursuit of new horizons connects our legacy with the future," Natalia Virtuozova said.

Speaking about the current venue and its projects, Natalia Virtuozova added that, alongside the permanent "Journey Across Russia" exposition, the Centre hosts temporary expositions that are very popular with visitors from across Russia and around the world. These include "The Birth of Scale", "A Book of Fairy Tales", "Geography Lessons" and others. The flagship project, famous as the Department Store RUSSIA, is a place that brings tradition and modernity together, allowing visitors to explore the world of folk arts, crafts and traditional trades and discover products from some of Russia's finest manufacturers. The Gastronomic Rows, divided into the "East", "North", "West" and "South" areas, offer visitors an opportunity to discover the culinary traditions of different Russian regions.

The Director General also highlighted the Centre's business programme, which is based on the principle of multilevel dialogue and divided into three areas: federal, regional and international.

"The National Centre RUSSIA, above all, represents our country on the international stage, sharing ideas about the enduring values of a new world order founded on justice, equality and mutual respect among all states and peoples. We greatly value having friends around the world, which is why we are open to cooperation and dialogue with foreign media outlets and bloggers. We will always be delighted to welcome you back," Natalia Virtuozova concluded.

Geofrey Serugo, a political journalist accredited to the Parliament of Uganda who attended the presentation, spoke about areas in which he sees opportunities for cooperation between Uganda and the National Centre RUSSIA.

"When I looked at the architectural plans for the new National Centre building, I saw a modern, forward-looking design. We would very much like to return in 2029, when it opens. There are several areas in which Uganda and the National Centre could join forces. The Centre uses the latest technologies for producing audio and video content, and our two countries could cooperate in this field. Perhaps Uganda could train several specialists here, while Russia could send two or three experts to exchange experience," Geofrey Serugo noted.

The International Press Centre at the National Centre RUSSIA will operate around the clock until 30 October. The large-scale media forum has brought together more than 200 participants, including executives and journalists from leading African media outlets and media associations, bloggers with millions of followers, and descendants of prominent African leaders.