Two additional countries will host Russian Houses, a development reported by RIA Novosti who cited the Rossotrudnichestvo press service. The confirmation signals a continued push to broaden cultural, educational and people-to-people exchanges by expanding the reach of these cultural centers around the world, offering language programs, arts projects and community outreach.
Rossotrudnichestvo announced that it had signed agreements with joint Russian Houses, known as PRD, in six countries, Brazil, Iraq, Madagascar, Sierra Leone and Thailand. The statement notes a broader pattern of partnerships across continents, with Brazil and Madagascar marking new phases of cooperation while other countries expand the terms of existing contracts.
For Brazil and Madagascar this marks the first cooperative experience with Rossotrudnichestvo, while in the other partner countries the validity of previously concluded contracts has been extended, enabling broader programs in education, language training, cultural events and youth exchanges.
Agency President Yevgeny Primakov described the development as important to strengthen Russia’s cultural, educational and humanitarian ties with people around the world.
The Brazil agreement envisions establishing a Department of Railway Engineering in Rio de Janeiro, publishing a chess textbook, broadcasting Russian cinema on public television, and organizing Russian culture lessons for residents of the favelas. Art exhibitions are planned to tour the country and foster cross-cultural dialogue.
Altogether, there are 23 Russian Houses located in 20 states worldwide, with more than half situated on the African continent, reflecting the network’s growth in regions where cultural exchange has been particularly active.
On February 3, Azerbaijan sent a note about the closing of the Russian House in Baku. The Foreign Ministry’s press secretary said Baku awaits steps from Moscow, while Azerbaijani media have suggested espionage claims framed as a promotion of Russian culture.
The Russian side signaled its intention to resolve the situation surrounding the Russian House in Azerbaijan, indicating ongoing dialogue and possible steps to preserve cultural exchange.