During a working visit to the Sultanate of Oman, Marat Gatin, Deputy Chairman of the Group of Strategic Vision "Russia – Islamic World", held a meeting with His Highness Fahad bin Al Julanda Al Said, Vice-Chancellor of Sultan Qaboos University. The talks focused on developing and institutionalizing the humanitarian partnership between Russia and the Islamic world by deepening academic ties.
Both parties highly praised the effectiveness of existing student internship programs, which have been successfully running at the university for three consecutive years. These projects, organized with the support of the "Al-Hadara" Center for Arabic Culture, have established themselves as a premier practical platform for Russian students specializing in Arabic studies.
"Dialogues like these are more than just an exchange of pleasantries; they are investments in the future of our relations," Marat Gatin emphasized during his speech. "Every meeting and every student who completes an internship adds another brick to the foundation of mutual understanding. We are not just talking about language, but about fostering an entire generation of specialists who can engage with the region through deep trust and shared cultural codes."
During the meeting, the sides confirmed their intent to not only continue but also qualitatively expand the student exchange program.
Particular attention was paid to transitioning to a new strategic level: academic cooperation. An agreement was reached to develop specific joint projects, such as shared educational programs, scientific research, and expert exchanges.
The agreements reached mark a shift from successful individual initiatives to the formation of a sustainable, multi-level system of cooperation. Developing a partnership with one of the region's leading universities, headed by a member of the ruling dynasty, aligns with the Group’s long-term strategy to strengthen the humanitarian dimension of Russia's relations with the Islamic world.
The Group of Strategic Vision "Russia – Islamic World" was established in 2006 under the initiative of Russian President Vladimir Putin. It was co-founded by distinguished statesmen Yevgeny Primakov, former Prime Minister of Russia, and Mintimer Shaimiev, the first President of the Republic of Tatarstan. Since 2014, by presidential decree, the Group has been headed by Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov. The Group aims to promote constructive dialogue and partnership between Russia and Muslim nations, bringing together prominent political, religious, and public figures, alongside scholars and diplomats.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"