Russia pays considerable attention to the development of relations with Armenia, both within the framework of mutual cooperation and the Eurasian Economic Union, because the development of the entire large Eurasian area and peace in the South Caucasus largely depends on it. In this context, the Russian-Armenian University plays an important linking role. This was stated by Alexey Overchuk, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, during his visit to RAU on December 15.

The delegation led by Mr. Overchuk and Mr. Konstantin Mogilevsky, Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, as well as Ms. Zhanna Andreasyan, Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Armenia, was welcomed by Mr. Edward Sandoyan, Rector of RAU, Doctor of Economics of RA and RF. Having introduced the infrastructural and educational opportunities of RAU to the members of the Russian and Armenian delegations, the Rector opened the meeting with the students and faculty of the university. Edward Sandoyan noted that they were not just dear guests: within the walls of the Russian-Armenian University, they were, in fact, the real hosts.

The Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and noted that the Russian-Armenian University is a bridge that connects the two countries. According to him, it is the fundamental values of science, culture and education, which RAU is introducing, that allow stating  that despite all the challenges, the two nations remain together; they are friendly and brotherly.

"At the Intergovernmental Commission meeting today I said that probably the most important achievement that we have and that should be preserved is that Armenians coming to Russia do not feel like foreigners, and we, coming to Armenia - and we love coming to Armenia, I won't hide it - also feel home. This is probably the most important thing and something worth preserving. And, undoubtedly, studying at such a university, you are the very conductors of this culture, this communication, which is necessary for the ties between us to never weaken, no matter what they try to do. And if we are together in this complex new world, we will be fine," Overchuk told the student community.

He emphasized how important it was in today's new world to gain such knowledge, which is really basic, which makes the citizens in demand: "I am sure that of course, you, as active people understand all this and work hard, improve yourselves to be able to meet the challenges and become leaders. It is important both for Armenia and for our relations". He also addressed the students' questions.

It should be noted that Zhanna Andreasyan, too, answered students' and faculty members' questions prior to the meeting.

 

 

 

Translated by Milena Nazaryan,    
I year Master’s Student in Translation & Interpretation, RAU