An amazing blend of culture, history, and perspective: foreign guests on Russia and the "Inventing the Future" Symposium

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The first event of the National Centre RUSSIA was the International Symposium "Inventing the Future," which took place from November 4 to 6. It gathered over 6,000 participants from 101 countries, including representatives from government, business, science, and creative industries. Many foreign guests shared their admiration for the Symposium and Russia as a whole.

"The first thing that impressed me upon arriving in Russia was the modesty, kindness, and willingness of people to help. Moreover, I feel a connection to your remarkable culture and traditions, and I believe the Symposium will help a lot of people better understand Russia," stated Milan Kumar Lal, Senior Researcher at the Rice Institute of India.

John Molera, Director of Policy and Research at DD Geopolitics from the United States, highlighted the warmth and hospitality of the Russian people.

"We are taught to fear and avoid places like Russia, but here I am welcomed with open arms. I feel at home and part of this community. Moscow is an amazing blend of history and perspective, reflecting the new multipolar world forming before our eyes. At this critical moment, as the world rapidly transitions from a unipolar system dominated by Western powers and the United States, Moscow is once again becoming the heart of humanity," noted John Molera.

Foreign guests emphasize that the Symposium became a unique platform for specialists from around the world to engage in dialogue and discuss key issues across various fields.

"The Symposium left a strong impression on me: so many diverse events and a wide range of topics for discussion. I am also thrilled by Moscow — it is a city full of energy. I very much want to return here again to dive deeper into its atmosphere," shared Lu Xiaohong from China.

According to Majed al-Mansoori, Executive Director of the Museum of the Future (UAE), participating in the Symposium in the historic city of Moscow was an honor and a special occasion.

"At the Symposium, we discussed how we could work together to create a better future for the next generations. The Symposium allowed me to establish valuable connections with colleagues. Despite the chill in the air, everyone I met in Moscow treated me with great warmth. I look forward to the opportunity to see this city again," noted Majed al-Mansoori.

Speaking at the Symposium, Serbian activist Vesna Veizovic emphasized that Russia serves as a model for others in upholding traditional values and strengthening families.

"Today, traditional values, which should be the foundation of a state, are considered unusual in some countries where propaganda of distorted moral standards is gaining ground. In this situation, Russia stands as a country that opposes this ideology and demonstrates by example the correct path — the preservation of religious identity and family values," said Vesna Veizovic.

Foreign delegates of the Symposium returned to their home countries with unforgettable impressions and vivid memories of the wonderful moments spent in Russia.

"The Symposium brought together many brilliant minds. What impressed me the most was the special attention to universal human values and the social aspect. I also fell in love with Moscow — it’s a very beautiful city. The architecture is stunning, the landscapes are impressive, and the people are friendly," shared Abel Benjamin Lim from Malaysia.

The central theme of the International Symposium "Inventing the Future" was designing the future. Participants of over 60 sessions and discussions addressed key issues impacting the future of technology, a multipolar world, civilizations, and humanity. The ideas and strategies developed during the Symposium will serve as a foundation for the further work of the National Centre RUSSIA, fostering international cooperation and strengthening the country's position in the global agenda.

International guests explored Moscow's culture through guided tours, and within the framework of the "Message to the Future" project, participants left their wishes or visions for the future on special postcards. Over the three days of the Symposium, the library of the National Centre RUSSIA expanded its collection with books gifted by foreign guests.

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.