Presentation of the "Austrian-German-Russian Associative Dictionary of Core Values" was held at the National Centre RUSSIA

The "Austrian-German-Russian Associative Dictionary of Core Values" was presented at the National Centre RUSSIA. This unique scientific work, unparalleled in the world, is dedicated to the linguistic cultural formation of different nations. Aide to the President of the Russian Federation Andrei Fursenko officially donated the dictionary to the library of the National Centre RUSSIA.

The materials for the dictionary were collected through a large-scale associative experiment conducted over several years in major Austrian cities such as Vienna, Salzburg, Linz, and Klagenfurt, as well as in German cities like Berlin, Stuttgart, Freiburg, and Vechta, and a number of large Russian cities. The latest data was collected in 2024, confirming the dictionary's relevance and objectivity. 

Photo: Press Office of the National Centre RUSSIA

What makes this project unique is its ability, unlike thesauri, explanatory, or bilingual dictionaries, to showcase differences in the meanings of words representing common values, as exemplified by Austrians and Germans.

The creation of the "Austrian-German-Russian Associative Dictionary of Core Values" became a significant collaborative project between the Moscow State Linguistic University and the Public Forum "Sochi Dialogue." This forum serves as a platform for establishing and developing direct connections between representatives of civil society in Russia and Austria. During the official presentation of the dictionary, Andrei Fursenko, Aide to the President of the Russian Federation and Co-Chair of the Forum's Coordination Committee, delivered a welcoming speech.

"Sochi Dialogue continues to strengthen Russian-Austrian relations. This year, several important events have taken place. One of the most significant results of our work is presented here today at the National Centre RUSSIA. This is the 'Austrian-German-Russian Associative Dictionary,' which I am honored to present as a contribution to the Centre's library," said Andrei Fursenko.

 The Aide to the President of the Russian Federation handed over the first edition of the dictionary to the Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA, Natalia Virtuozova.

The event was also attended by Konstantin Mogilevsky, Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of Russia. He expressed confidence that the dictionary would find its audience among students, enriching Austrian libraries at the Moscow State Linguistic University, the Nizhny Novgorod campus of the National Research University Higher School of Economics, and the Faculty of Philology at Saint Petersburg State University.

"An analysis of associative reactions of different peoples to the same words demonstrates the absence of 'complete uniformity' between German and Austrian cultures and their values. It also helps adjust the perceptions Russians, Austrians, and Germans have of each other. This is particularly important for improving the effectiveness of intercultural communication in today's complex political realities," said Konstantin Mogilevsky. 

Photo: Press Office of the National Centre RUSSIA

According to Irina Krayeva, Rector of the Moscow State Linguistic University (MSLU), the role of the humanities cannot be underestimated in today’s world: both technological progress and international technological collaboration require humanitarian support, including linguistic expertise. This was affirmed by the recent First Eurasian Congress of Linguists, which brought together 500 participants from 46 countries.

Nikolai Fedoseyenkov, Director of the "Nauka" publishing house, also highlighted the importance of international cooperation, particularly the long-standing relationships between Russia, Austria, and Germany. These ties date back to the era of the Rurik dynasty, continued through the times of Peter the Great and Catherine the Great, and remain relevant today.

"Today, we are witnessing a significant event—the publication of the Austrian-German-Russian Associative Dictionary of Core Values. This is indeed crucial, as the history of Russian-Austrian and Russian-German relations spans many centuries. Professional connections in business, science, and culture continue to unite experts, no matter the challenges," concluded Nikolai Fedoseyenkov. 

Photo: Press Office of the National Centre RUSSIA

The National Centre RUSSIA was established by order of the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, to preserve the legacy of the International RUSSIA EXPO and to showcase the achievements of the country and its citizens on a permanent basis. Federal government agencies, state companies, corporations, and regions take part in the Centre’s work.

The National Centre RUSSIA is located at 14 Krasnopresnenskaya Embankment, Moscow. The Centre is open from 10:00 to 20:00 every day except Monday.