Anzor Muzaev, who heads the Federal Service for Supervision in Education and Science, Rosobrnadzor, highlighted a notable shortage of translators fluent in Chinese and Arabic within the country. His comments were reported by a major news agency, underscoring a concern that touches on national language resources and the capacity to support international engagement.
According to the expert, Moscow is actively expanding its bilateral relationships with both Beijing and the Arab states. This broader diplomatic and economic outreach naturally increases the demand for skilled interpreters and translators who can bridge language and cultural gaps in official meetings, business negotiations, and collaborative projects across regions where Chinese and Arabic are central to communication.
Muzaev stressed that without proficiency in these languages among Russian linguists, and without the corresponding fluency among colleagues from China and Arab partner countries, the demand for translators already outpaces supply. He called the current numbers “catastrophically inadequate” on both sides, emphasizing a need for sustained investment in language education and professional development to meet rising demand in the near future.
The official attributed part of this shortfall to a historical tilt in language education toward Western languages, urging a more balanced approach that would equip the workforce with broader linguistic capabilities. He argued that maintaining equilibrium in language skills is essential for sustaining high-quality diplomacy, academic exchange, and technical collaboration with diverse international partners.
Muzaev also pointed to ongoing efforts to expand Russian language education abroad, noting the construction of Russian schools in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. He described such international educational cooperation as a standard practice that reflects the precedent set by Moscow and Beijing, who have pursued similar collaborations in the past. This trend signals a long-term strategy to support intercultural understanding and educational mobility, which in turn reinforces diplomatic ties and regional influence.
Moreover, the head of Rosobrnadzor remarked on a gradual increase in the number of Russian citizens studying the Chinese language and taking Chinese language examinations within the federation. He linked this uptick to a broader pattern of strengthened diplomatic relations and cultural exchange, citing recent high-level visits and sustained dialogue as indicators of intent to deepen collaboration in the coming years. The development suggests a Growing emphasis on language competence as a strategic resource for national interests, education, and international cooperation.
In a related development, Rosobrnadzor officials also discussed the possibility of introducing Ukrainian language study in schools as part of broader language education reforms. This consideration reflects ongoing conversations about linguistic diversity, regional history, and the role of language programs in promoting social cohesion and national identity. While such proposals are subject to policy deliberations and practical logistics, they illustrate the agency’s broader view of language education as a tool for inclusive national development.