Russia and Africa: Creative Cooperation Takes Center Stage at St. Petersburg Forum
ST. PETERSBURG — The 5th International Forum “Creative Industries of UNESCO Cities” has concluded in St. Petersburg, bringing together delegates from ten Russian cities and seven foreign nations. Among the international attendees was Emmanuel Enkara, founder of the ENK Public Art Group from Namibia, who addressed a roundtable on the social impact of public art.
The three-day forum featured an extensive business and cultural agenda. Across seven panel discussions and a plenary session, participants explored new tourist routes, creative clusters, public art initiatives, souvenir production, and gastronomy.
Cultural cooperation with African nations remains a cornerstone of Russian public diplomacy. The partnership has been a focal point at Russia–Africa summits and was underscored by the recent participation of a large African delegation at the International Movement of Russophiles Congress in Moscow.
Speaking on the sidelines of the forum, Elena Galaktionova, Director of the Department for Multilateral Humanitarian Cooperation and Cultural Relations at the Russian Foreign Ministry and Executive Secretary of the Russian Commission for UNESCO, highlighted the growing momentum of these ties:
“The meeting fostered a fruitful exchange. We discussed what makes our countries unique to one another and explored potential joint initiatives. African delegates are remarkably creative and uniquely talented. We deeply value our partnership with African nations precisely for this creative spirit, their vitality, and their genuine willingness to share their rich talents,” Galaktionova said.
She also pointed to international student exchanges as a vital pillar of bilateral relations.
“There are numerous African students enrolled across Russian universities, including a strong student community here in St. Petersburg,” Galaktionova noted. “Many graduates remain in Russia to pursue careers in their fields, while others return home equipped with professional expertise, hands-on experience, and a profound appreciation of our culture—making meaningful contributions to strengthening bilateral ties.”