Participation of representatives of the Institute of International Relations in the International Forum on Cultural Diplomacy

On 6 October, representatives of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service of the Educational and Scientific Institute of International Relations of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv - Head of the Department, Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor Viktor Matvienko, Candidate of Historical Sciences, Associate Professor Vyacheslav Tsivaty, and Associate Professor Nataliia Mykhailivna Rylach, PhD in Economics, took part in the sixth annual professional conference, the International Forum on Cultural Diplomacy, organized by the Ukrainian Institute in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine (MFA of Ukraine).

The forum traditionally brought together representatives of the public sector, higher education institutions, international organisations, cultural institutions and civil society, Ukrainian and foreign diplomats to discuss the role of cultural diplomacy, education and science in times of global transformation and war.

In her welcoming speech, First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska emphasised that education, knowledge and enlightenment should be the main components of cultural diplomacy today. An important role here is played by the state initiative Global Coalition of Ukrainian Studies, which is actively expanding, bringing together universities and research centres - thousands of students and young scientists in different countries who will study the history, language, culture and present day of Ukraine in their higher education institutions.

"Spreading knowledge and understanding is a noble mission that can influence our future by building trust, overcoming prejudices and shaping critical thinking." - Ukrainian Institute.

In his speech, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga emphasised that cultural diplomacy today is part of our diplomacy of strength. It is a very powerful tool of influence.

The forum also saw the first presentation of the Dalga Award, established by the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ukrainian Institute to recognise laureates for their contribution to promoting the Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar languages.

"By strengthening our culture and language, we strengthen our roots, affirm our national identity and shape a worldview based on our own history and traditions." - Andriy Sybiga

According to the minister, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has prioritised culture for the coming year. In this context, Ukrainian diplomacy will continue to work to attract international funds to strengthen support for cultural development.

The Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service expresses its sincere gratitude to the Ukrainian Institute and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine for the invitation, as well as for their ongoing partnership, expert support and fruitful long-term cooperation in providing internships for students at the Institute of International Relations and Diplomacy of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv.

Prepared based on materials from the Office of Olena Zelenska, the Ukrainian Institute, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.