German and Russian Academics Concerned about Deterioration of Political Relations Between Two Countries

An international conference on German-Russian relations started in Kazan University on October 8th.

The conference titled “German-Russian Relations During Russia's Turn to the East: Influence on Economics, Science and Education” was opened by Deputy Executive Director of German-Russian Forum Sebastian Nitzsche. He told the audience that the topic is of utmost relevance for the Forum now. He went on to say, “Only a few months ago we were not bothered by these issues; nobody doubted the solidity of Russian-German ties in economics, science and education. But now some influential people in Germany started claiming that Russia is not a part of Europe. That's pernicious. We need each other. I am deeply worried by the news in Russia and Germany where speakers suggest that Russia leaves Europe and pays its attention to the East. Of course, economic opportunities brought by this turn to the East should be used, but culturally Germany is closer to Russia than Eastern countries. It's no accident that the conference takes place in Kazan – a European city with Eastern roots. This city is a paragon of multipolarity and openness to the world”.

Vice-Rector Linar Latypov then greeted the gathering. He mentioned that Kazan University became an outpost of science on the Asian-European border after its establishment in 1804. German scientists played a huge role in the University's growth and expansion. Today KFU is a European university with superb infrastructure and top-notch labs, said he.

Sergey Schigolev of the Presidential Administration of Tatarstan conveyed greetings from the republican leadership. After that Mr. Nitzsche and Dr. Latypov exchanged gifts.

Prof. Valery Letyaev talked about the research currently conducted by the Institute of International Relations, History, and Oriental Studies. He paid special attention to the cooperation with German universities: Humboldt University of Berlin, Ludwig-Maximilian University of Munich, University of Tubingen, Free University of Berlin. He announced that double majors with Regensburg University will be available since 2016/2017.

The conference will conclude on October 10th. The program includes training sessions, seminars, roundtables and a visit to KAMAZ.