Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration of Russia Calls for an International Science Cooperation Award
The deputy head of Russia’s presidential administration, who also serves as the press secretary to the country’s leader, has suggested creating an award that recognizes international scientific cooperation inside the nation. He brought up this idea during a meeting of the organizing committee for the prize named “For loyalty to science.” This update was reported by TASS.
He acknowledged that Russia had lost several joint ventures with Western partners, along with access to advanced technology, knowledge, and experience. Yet he warned that seeking scientific autarky would not be a wise path. Autarky, in his view, would push the country toward stagnation and a regression to earlier, less developed times.
He emphasized that the global landscape is broader than the domains where Russia previously collaborated and that there are many opportunities beyond those confines. He also noted that one of the awards tied to international collaboration should be presented next year, describing the concept as increasingly relevant in today’s diverse environment. The official explained that the focus should include emerging possibilities that intersect science and diplomacy, highlighting the importance of ongoing international engagement.
There are numerous fields where cooperative science remains essential, and he stressed that it is crucial for the nation to pursue these avenues. The role of science is seen as growing in the current context, described as a challenging environment shaped by geopolitical tensions. He argued that economic leadership requires a strong scientific foundation, and Russia cannot advance without robust research and innovation.
He underscored the importance of maintaining sovereignty in scientific endeavors, arguing that national autonomy should not come at the expense of global collaboration. The idea of an implementation-centered incentive, proposed for 2024, was also discussed as a way to connect scientific activity with tangible economic outcomes. He argued that science should generate real value—while basic, exploratory research remains vital, applied science should lead to concrete benefits in industry, production, and technology. He called for more examples of successful practice to be shared and scaled.
There was also a reference to former President Vladimir Putin’s call for systematic studies aimed at developing science across the region and for harmonized approaches to training personnel in the field. This broader vision emphasizes a coordinated effort to strengthen scientific capacity and to prepare the workforce for future challenges, while balancing openness with strategic priorities. The remarks collectively suggest a policy direction that elevates science as a driver of national resilience and economic vitality, framed within the context of international cooperation and regional development.