"The Russian people feel very close to us": Serbian guests discover Yugra
Guests participating in the international intensive
programme "Serbia.Russia.Yugra" visited the National Centre RUSSIA in
Yugra. For many of them, it was their first introduction to the region. Yet
after having the tour, they spoke of things that appeared to feel remarkably
familiar: shared traditions, history, spirituality and a sense of closeness
between the two peoples.
"What I like most about Russia is how similar we are and how much we share in terms of history, culture, traditions and spirituality. We are delighted that, for many years now, we have had the opportunity to be friends, learn more about Russia and Russian culture, and strengthen Serbian-Russian relations," said Maja Vidovic, a history teacher from Serbia.
The international intensive programme has brought together 35 journalists, content creators and creative professionals from Serbia and Yugra. In Khanty-Mansiysk, they are discovering the region, working together and discussing how to tell the stories of cultures, peoples and places in a contemporary way.
At the National Centre RUSSIA, the guests explored the exposition "See Yugra — Fall in Love with Russia!" They learned about the culture of the Indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North, the region's development through different historical periods and its modern achievements. They were impressed by how technology makes it possible to experience the region's history first-hand — from its ancient peoples to projects shaping the future.
"I couldn't believe that something like this existed in a relatively small city like Khanty-Mansiysk. I am truly inspired. It was a journey through time: I learned a great deal about the peoples who lived here and their traditions, and I also saw what the future holds," said Vanja Glišin, Doctor of Political Science and Head of the Centre for Geopolitics at the Institute for Political Studies in Serbia.
The Serbian guests noted that they feel at home when visiting Russia. In their view, the Russian people feel very close to them because Serbs and Russians belong to the same Slavic family. Visits and educational programmes like this help both peoples get to know one another better.
"Russia is our brotherly country. Throughout the centuries and across our history, it has helped us enormously. To us, Russia is like an elder brother, and we are the younger one. I can say that Russia is truly a friendly country to us. This is one of the reasons for the Serbian people's great love for the Russian people. I am very grateful for the opportunity to discover Russia and Yugra, with their beautiful landscapes and rich history. I can see how tradition and innovation have come together here," said Dejan Škobic, a Serbian entrepreneur and owner of the KEC group of companies.
The international intensive programme "Serbia.Russia.Yugra" is continuing. The international guests have more workshops and educational and cultural events ahead of them, all designed to strengthen ties between the two countries and broaden the horizons of everyone taking part in the project.
"New Generation" is Rossotrudnichestvo's flagship international project, implemented in partnership with Russian organisations.
On 13 November, a special project — the gaming lobby "The Rink of the Future" — will be held during the International Symposium "Inventing the Future" at the National Centre RUSSIA.
The International Catherine Forum has been held in Russia since 2023.
