On 12−14 September 2024, SCO Deputy Secretary General Shri Janesh Kain took part in the 10th St Petersburg International United Cultures Forum, where artificial intelligence was one of the main topics.
A plenary session of the forum was held, with Russian President Vladimir Putin delivering a welcoming speech. As the head of state noted, the very name of the forum recognised the civilisational diversity of the world, the natural right of people to identity, respect for traditional values and religions, as well as the unconditional equality of countries in shaping the global cultural agenda. It was emphasised that the importance of humanism, mutual respect, and trust is shared by the global majority, but was under constant pressure and the threat of erosion.
Shri Janesh Kain also attended the meeting between Russian Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova, heads of foreign delegations, and senior officials of international organisations, where prospects of international cultural cooperation were discussed.
In his remarks, the Deputy Secretary General noted that cultural ties served as the main means of cultural exchanges and helped understand history, traditions, and worldviews. They also serve as a foundation for healthy international relations, while political and economic cooperation creates additional opportunities for their development.
The Secretariat’s delegation also took part in the roundtable discussion on the latest trends in today’s international cultural cooperation. Shri Janesh Kain noted that today, when turbulence in international relations was escalating, the role of cultural diplomacy as a strategic channel for interstate relations was growing as never before.
The 10th International United Cultures Forum was held between 11 and 14 September in St Petersburg. The event was attended by delegations representing over 80 countries, comprised of experts, cultural figures, and government officials. The business programme included events within 10 thematic sections; as part of the cultural programme, participants were given the opportunity to attend various presentations, exhibitions, gala concerts, and special screenings.