A symbol of friendship: "Nevalyashki" art installation impresses African guests at the National Centre RUSSIA
The International Press Centre at the National Centre RUSSIA, established to cover the Eighth Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum and the Third Russia–Africa Summit, is nearing the end of its operation. Representatives of African media, popular bloggers and descendants of prominent national leaders were welcomed with traditional hospitality and offered a cultural and educational programme. Visitors learned about Russia's rich history, culture and achievements at the unique interactive exposition "Journey Across Russia". One of the highlights for the Centre's international guests was taking part in the creation of the collective "Nevalyashki" ("Roly Poly Dolls") art installation.
The installation, a continuous wave of brightly coloured nevalyashka toys, delighted delegations from across the African continent. Guests enjoyed looking at the toys, writing down their dreams and wishes on them, and then returning them to the shared composition.
“For me, this is an example of Russian culture and a symbol of international friendship. I hope that cultural exchange and cooperation between Algeria and Russia will continue. Visiting the National Centre RUSSIA has been a wonderful experience, because this space reflects culture, traditions, customs and the principles of peaceful coexistence. People in Algeria want to learn more about Russia. Your country serves as a kind of gateway to different cultures and religions and truly brings the idea of a dialogue of civilisations to life," said Algerian journalist Rafik Bekhouche.
Amin Toutah, an RT correspondent from Algeria, said the nevalyashka toy had become a special symbol for him.
"The nevalyashka toy is simply wonderful. It is so sweet and represents both Russia and my homeland. I even managed to choose a toy in Algeria's national colours — green and white. Thank you for this wonderful symbol," he said.
Meanwhile, Jiscard Kusema, a representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, shared details of how he created his own nevalyashka toy. He also said he had been pleasantly surprised by the thoughtful organisation of the National Centre RUSSIA.
"I wrote on my nevalyashka doll that I would be very happy to return to Russia. I also have the highest regard for the work of the National Centre RUSSIA — the organisation is simply impeccable. I travel everywhere, including to the UN and Europe, but here in Russia, the organisation is at the very highest level," Jiscard Kusema said.
The "Nevalyashki" art installation was first presented at the National Centre RUSSIA stand during the International Festival of Youth-2026 in Yekaterinburg. Guests from 103 countries took part in creating the collective installation. After the festival, it was moved to Moscow and became a permanent feature of the National Centre RUSSIA. The nevalyashka toy symbolises resilience and the ability to get back up no matter what happens — an idea that has resonated with people from countries and continents around the world.
The colour of the year will be a way to express Russia's diversity.
