As part of the recently concluded 5th International Congress of Young Scientists at the Sirius Educational Center, participants met with the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin. The event, which gathered a record-breaking 8,000 researchers from more than 100 countries, reaffirmed its status as one of the world’s key platforms for scientific dialogue. Representatives of a wide range of fields — from biotechnology and materials science to energy and IT — discussed the interdisciplinary challenges of the modern world.

As noted, the initial goal of establishing the Congress was not to overcome external barriers, but to create an open space for the free exchange of ideas and the development of professional connections. The experience of the past five years has demonstrated the demand for such a format. In his remarks, Vladimir Putin emphasized that science — like art and sports — must remain outside politics and serve to bring people together. This idea, resonating with the mission of the Sochi Dialogue, was illustrated with historical examples — from the invention of gunpowder to the development of nuclear technologies — showing that knowledge ultimately becomes the heritage of humanity, ensuring balance and driving progress. The modern Congress follows this logic by creating conditions for breakthrough ideas to emerge through collaboration.

The meeting in the Kremlin reflected the rich diversity of the Congress, where scientists with truly unique projects came together. The event was attended by Andrey Fursenko, Aide to the President of the Russian Federation; Valery Falkov, Minister of Science and Higher Education; as well as young scientists — award and grant recipients whose work spans promising fields from quantum technologies to biomedicine. Commenting on the results of the meeting, Daria Kozlova, Deputy Director of the Sochi Dialogue Forum, noted: “Undoubtedly, such events are essential, as it is impossible to make decisions concerning the challenges young scientists face without their direct involvement.” This statement highlights the crucial role of the scientific community in shaping strategies for its development and support.

Concluding the meeting, Vladimir Putin addressed the young scientists with a remark that captures the essence of scientific inquiry: “There is nothing more rewarding than engaging in creative work.” The 5th Congress of Young Scientists at Sirius clearly demonstrated that the future is built where creative freedom thrives, where researchers from different countries and disciplines can communicate directly, and where effective mechanisms exist to transform ideas into practical solutions. The Sochi Dialogue sees in such initiatives a solid foundation for international cooperation, where joint efforts to address global challenges pave the way toward sustainable development and mutual understanding.

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