As part of its commitment to strengthening international academic and cultural partnerships, the University of Sharjah (UoS) hosted a delegation from the Institute of Asian and African Studies (IAAS) at Moscow State University, Russia. The meeting was attended by His Excellency, Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah; Oleg Fomin, Consul General of the Russian Federation to Dubai and the Northern Emirates; Dr. Mikhail Margelov, Director of Modern Development for Asian and African Countries at IAAS; and other officials. 

Discussions focused on enhancing cultural and academic exchange, particularly in the fields of Arabic language instruction and learning, and student exchange. The two institutions explored avenues for collaborative programs aimed at fostering mutual understanding and advancing academic excellence. 

Prof. Al Naimiy welcomed the delegation, conveying greetings from His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and President of the University of Sharjah. He highlighted the University’s strong ties with Russian academic institutions, which have flourished through its participation in BRICS summits, and agreements and joint scientific conferences with leading Russian universities. The Chancellor emphasized the importance of working with a prestigious institution like IAAS to create unique opportunities for students and faculty from both institutions. 

Consul General of the Russian Federation to Dubai, Oleg Fomin praised the University of Sharjah’s academic and research capabilities, noting that such partnerships, as the one proposed between UoS and IAAS, align with the broader UAE-Russia vision for fostering cultural and diplomatic harmony. He emphasized the role of academic collaboration in strengthening bilateral ties. 

Dr. Mikhail Margelov expressed IAAS’s enthusiasm for expanding its cooperation with the University of Sharjah, underlining the importance of building cultural and educational bridges between Russia and the Arab world through developing joint programs in language studies, cultural and historical research, and sustainable development. He also stressed the value of academic and student exchange programs in fostering knowledge transfer and mutual understanding. 

Both sides agreed to hold future meetings between researchers and specialists to identify areas for joint initiatives, including collaborative research on sustainability, environmental challenges, and cultural heritage. Plans were also made to organize specialized conferences, seminars, and cultural exhibitions. 

Attendees from the University of Sharjah included Prof. Yousef Haik, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs; Prof. Maamr Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies; and Dr. Abdelaziz Sofiane, Director of the Office of International Relations. The Russian delegation also included Rasul Kasimov, Deputy Consul General, and Alexey Eliseev, Project Coordinator. 

About the Institute of Asian and African Studies (IAAS): 

Founded in 1956, IAAS is one of Russia’s leading academic institutions. It specializes in the study of cultures, languages, history, politics, and economies of Asian and African nations. Renowned for its innovative research in international politics, economics, and anthropology, IAAS is dedicated to strengthening cultural and academic ties between Russia and the regions it studies.