Laurie Bristow was appointed the new UK ambassador to Russia only three weeks ago but gained broad diplomatic experience while working in Russia and many other countries.
At the meeting Mr. Bristow noted that he was going to focus not only on solving various problems but also on making contacts between generations. According to the ambassador, it helps a society to clear up misunderstandings and assists countries to reach a consensus.
“There is no denying the fact that modern world has many conflicts. However there also too many opportunities for collaboration in different spheres such as education. This area is not affected by politics that is why I suppose that the Russian Federation and the United Kingdom may collaborate in this sphere. Thus our joint efforts will contribute to the 5-100 Project, which aims at maximizing competitiveness of educational centers; currently it includes more than 20 Russian universities. I am sure that representatives of British higher education will share their experience with Russian colleagues,” said Laurie Bristow.
This year two countries will interact by taking part in the UK-Russia Year of Language and Literature. 2016 was announced as a year of Shakespeare's 400th anniversary. Its` program includes events and activities in honor of the famous poet and playwright who contributed to world`s culture. It aims to make British literature more popular and increase interest in studying English among Russians. Furthermore Shakespeare Lives gives everyone an opportunity to reinterpret Shakespeare`s plays and poems and share one`s movie at the website of the project.
Laurie Bristow underlined the importance of higher education in the modern world. It is impossible to develop economy and other fields without top-level experts. According to the ambassador, universities` upgrading is impossible without attraction international students. Like many Russian universities ITMO University provides various activities such as double degree programs as well as summer & winter schools.
“Focusing on Russia-UK interaction we appreciate and support student initiatives. If one wants to launch a project or an event he or she should contact the British Council or the Embassy of the United Kingdom in Moscow,” noted Mr. Bristow.