International events: Year 2011 announced Cultural Exchange Year for Russia and Italy

The Year of Russian culture and Russian language in Italy and the Year of Italian culture and Italian language in Russia carried out in 2011 – is a climax of centuries-old ties between Moscow and Rome.

A decision to hold “cultural exchange year” was taken on November 6 2008 during Russian-Italian interstate consultations.

In pursuance of agreements, reached by the President of Russia Dmitry Medvedev and the Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Italy Silvio Berlusconi, on December 3 2009 was signed a Protocol between the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation and the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities of the Republic of Italy on holding “cultural exchange years” in 2011.

The history of relations between Russia and Italy has been inseparably linked. The interpenetration of two cultures took place in Russia — due to prominent Italian masters: architects, sculptors, musicians, while Russian artists, poets and writers used to work with great enthusiasm in Italy.

An “exchange year” of national cultures and languages will contribute to development of direct ties between regions of two countries. In 2011 Italy will welcome creative bands from all the regions of Russia.

In January 2011 will kick off the Second International Russian-Italian Student Forum, while in May and June will be launched the Second International Children’s Forum “This World is ours!”