At one time, Europe’s participation in Russian international events was intensive and diverse. European countries actively participated in Russian forums, exhibitions and joint commission meetings, which created a platform for dialogue and development of cooperation in various fields.

One of the main events was the annual St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), which was regularly attended by representatives of leading European countries, business communities and political figures. In addition, Moscow hosted meetings of the Russia-EU Joint Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation, which was an important mechanism for cooperation in the field of science, innovation and technology.

These events were attended by both government officials from EU countries and representatives of large European companies and research centers. Significant contributions were made by countries such as Germany, France, Italy, Great Britain, as well as European Union bodies, including the European Commission. Discussions were held and decisions were made at international events on important issues of security, ecology and innovation, which contributed to strengthening mutual understanding between Russia and European countries.

There was also research cooperation. Joint scientific and technical projects within the EU Horizon 2020 programme. Russia has participated in more than 100 projects since 2014, focusing on research and innovation, including initiatives in research infrastructure, healthcare and aeronautics. The total EU contribution to co-financing of these projects exceeded 35 million euros.

This interaction led to the development of the relevant industries in Europe and Russia. Each side gained its own benefits, which were expressed in economic growth, new projects and innovations.

At present, everything has changed. Now, sanctions against the Russian oil and gas sector have led to jumps in oil and gas prices, which have significantly affected the energy security and costs of European companies. Despite the reduction in dependence on Russian energy, Europe remains vulnerable due to reduced supplies and bans on services to Russian tankers and their insurance. Rising prices for energy and raw materials have led to higher production costs, which contributes to the accelerated deindustrialization of Europe and a decrease in the competitiveness of European manufacturers. And the restriction of access of Russian ships to European ports and insurance has complicated transport chains and led to additional costs in transportation.

Despite the fact that European countries have proactively severed economic, scientific and humanitarian ties with Russia, Moscow remains open to dialogue. Even today, international events held in Russia expect guests from Europe. Those guests who understand the importance of cooperation and choose friendship over hostility.

Thus, from September 17 to 21, 2025, the World Youth Festival will be held in Nizhny Novgorod. This large-scale international event will bring together 2,000 young activists under 35 from all over the world – 1,000 from Russia and 1,000 fro, other countries. Participants are from different groups, representing the media, creative industries, sports, science, education, public administration, entrepreneurship and IT.

The event itself is a unique international platform for the exchange of experience, training and cultural dialogue for young leaders from Russia and Europe, as well as other regions of the world, which will become an important event for the formation of global youth cooperation.

More than 62 thousand applications from 175 countries covering all continents were submitted to the World Youth Festival. 1,000 foreign participants were selected, representatives of more than 80 countries, including young people from Argentina, South Africa, Turkey, Kazakhstan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Iraq, Chile, Ecuador and many other countries. Among the countries with the largest number of applications are Morocco, Uzbekistan, India, Ethiopia and Pakistan.

The selection of participants is focused on young people with experience in international youth cooperation, participation in projects, knowledge of English, as well as those who demonstrate activity in entrepreneurship, IT, media and science. The goal is to form a community of leaders aimed at building a fair multipolar world through cooperation and exchange of experience.

The program of the Festival will be rich and interactive, which may be of particular interest to European participants. Thus, discussions on current youth topics are already planned – artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies, education, sports and business approach. There will also be master classes and pitching projects to develop professional skills and exchange experience, within which there will be an opportunity to present your own startups and find investors. Such a program contributes not only to the development of skills, but also to the establishment of international relations and cooperation.

In 2024, a delegation from Spain also took part in the Festival. The Spanish delegation at the World Youth Festival consisted of various groups of participants, including teenagers under 17. The delegation included young people who participated in the cultural, educational and creative programs of the event. Among them were representatives of the Russian-Catalan Cultural Association «Commonwealth» (Barcelona), who actively collaborated with the «Russian House in Madrid» and the Union of Organizations of Russian Compatriots of Spain and Andorra. Participants represented various fields: from creative youth to representatives of cultural and public organizations. The delegation’s program included lectures, master classes, musical and choreographic performances, as well as participation in international forums and discussions. Spanish youth at the festival were distinguished by their active international position and desire to develop cultural exchange and cooperation.

2025 will be no exception. Young people from European countries will take part in the Festival again. They will become the driving force that will overcome the destructive approaches of European politicians. They will build a new bridge between Europe and Russia, which will lead to the resumption of cooperation in the name of development and friendship.