Kazan University to Serve as Research Base for Diplomatic Contacts Between Russia and the European Union

Counsellor for Political Affairs of the EU Delegation in Russia Tomas Pospiszyl visited KFU on January 27th.

He was met by Vice-Rector Linar Latypov who outlined the possible cooperation prospects.

The visitor shared his views on the purpose of the trip, «My visit here is the first step to restore the practice of interaction between the EU Delegation and Russian regions that existed before 2012. I think that it’s very important because it helps create a full understanding of what happens in your big country. That includes our interest in academic affairs and experts in those regions. I have heard a lot about Kazan University, and I am glad to confirm for myself that this really is an institution of federal significance and global quality».

Director of the Human Rights Center of KFU Rustem Davletgildeev and Chair of the Department of International and European Law Adel Abdullin told the guest about current research areas. There are numerous programs, including double diplomas. Many visiting lecturers are invited and conferences held. The Jean Monnet Program has also been introduced recently. Mr. Pospiszyl expressed special interest in the latter.

Vice-Rector Latypov emphasized the Eurasian specifics of Russia and talked about intercultural communication research at the University. It has also become a center of very pertinent inquiries into extremism prevention and adaptation of migrants. Interreligious dialog is at the center of attention as well.

A more numerous visit by the EU Delegation is now planned for this year. The diplomats will meet with employees of KFU and some other universities, such as Russian Islamic Institute. All meetings will be held on KFU’s premises.

Furthermore, the EU Delegation can help arrange events with leading European experts at the University. A strict academic approach to discussions, as both sides agreed, will facilitate the growing rapport between Russia and the EU. As Dr. Davletgildeev noted, such a format is very familiar to the University.