Country Lecture on Russia in Modern International Policy on 30 March 2014

The Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) organised a Country Lecture Series titled "Russia in Modern International Politics" on 17 March 2014 at the BIISS Auditorium.

The lecture was delivered by H. E. Mr Alexander A. Nikolaev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the People's Republic of Bangladesh, as the Guest Speaker. The programme brought together senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, policymakers, academics, researchers, military officials, representatives of think tanks, media professionals, and students to discuss Russia's role in the evolving international system and its implications for global and regional politics.

In his lecture, Ambassador Alexander A. Nikolaev provided an overview of Russia's foreign policy priorities and its position in the contemporary international order. He emphasised Russia's commitment to promoting a multipolar world, strengthening the role of international law, and enhancing multilateral cooperation in addressing global political, economic, and security challenges. He noted that dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful cooperation remain fundamental principles of Russia's foreign policy.

The Guest Speaker highlighted Russia's engagement in global governance, international security, energy cooperation, counter-terrorism, and regional stability. He discussed the growing importance of Eurasia and the Asia-Pacific region in global affairs and stressed the need for constructive international partnerships to address emerging challenges, including economic uncertainty, transnational crime, climate change, and technological transformation.

The lecture also explored the longstanding and friendly relations between Bangladesh and the Russian Federation, highlighting cooperation in energy, trade, science and technology, education, defence, and infrastructure development. The Ambassador reaffirmed Russia's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding collaboration in areas of mutual interest, particularly in support of Bangladesh's socio-economic development.

Participants engaged actively in the interactive discussion session by raising questions and sharing valuable comments, suggestions, and observations on Russia's foreign policy, contemporary geopolitical developments, and the future prospects of Bangladesh–Russia relations. The exchange of views contributed to a deeper understanding of Russia's strategic outlook and its role in maintaining international peace and security.

The programme concluded with a reaffirmation of the importance of dialogue, mutual understanding, and international cooperation in addressing contemporary global challenges. The lecture provided an important platform for informed discussion on Russia's role in modern international politics and reinforced BIISS's commitment to promoting scholarly engagement on issues of regional and global strategic significance.