The Russian-Austrian Civil Society Forum Sochi Dialogue hosted the panel discussion “Transmitting Values Abroad: Tools, Practices, and Artefacts” at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF 2026). Moderated by Maria Matveeva, Director of the Forum, the session brought together experts, academics, artists, and representatives of leading corporations to explore how shared intellectual and cultural space can be preserved at a time when traditional mechanisms of international engagement are under increasing strain.

Opening the discussion, Maria Matveeva emphasized that science and cultural diplomacy remain among the most universal and effective languages of international communication. She noted that achievements in science, technology, and the arts can serve not only as demonstrations of excellence but also as powerful vehicles for fostering mutual understanding and building lasting partnerships.

This idea was vividly illustrated by Sergey Krikalev, legendary Russian cosmonaut and Deputy Director General of the Roscosmos State Corporation. Speaking about the unique nature of international cooperation in space and the ability of astronauts and cosmonauts to maintain trust despite political differences on Earth, he observed:

“By continuing to do our job, we demonstrate our values through the simple fact that it does not matter to us what language someone speaks.”

The strategic importance of SPIEF as a venue for such a discussion was highlighted by Irina Kraeva, Rector of Moscow State Linguistic University (MSLU). Reflecting on the Forum and its significance for international initiatives such as the Sochi Dialogue, she remarked:

“Why here? Because this is a platform where not only capital and technologies come together. It is also a place where ideas, values, and strategies are put into practice.”

These ideas, she noted, find tangible expression in humanitarian initiatives that help overcome artificial barriers and strengthen international dialogue.

Music also emerged as a universal language of mutual understanding capable of bridging cultural divides. Austrian conductor Wolfgang Scheidt shared his experience of participating in The Voice of Music: Academy of Young Conductors, a project held in Yaroslavl in April 2026. Reflecting on his work with young Russian musicians, he said:

“Let me begin by saying that what truly impressed me was this recognition—a genuine appreciation of and commitment to Russian values and cultural identity.”

Summing up the discussion, which also featured representatives of MGIMO University, Rosatom, the Vyzov Foundation, and Gazprom-Media Holding, Maria Matveeva noted that promoting values in an increasingly fragmented world requires a sophisticated network of partnerships and initiatives. Space cooperation, educational platforms, media projects, and international cultural programmes all function as interconnected elements of a broader system of dialogue.

The session demonstrated that the architecture of future international cooperation will not be built on short-term political declarations, but on the enduring foundations of shared achievements in science, technology, education, and culture.


And footage from the session is already available on our RUTUBE channel!

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