Islamabad (TDI): As the first day of the International Young Diplomats School (IYDS) came to a close, the participants were welcomed at the Russian embassy in Pakistan.
This is the seventh edition of the IYDS, which is a flagship diplomacy school organized by the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS).
The three-day school seeks to support public diplomacy outreach of the foreign diplomatic missions based in Pakistan as well as to give students of International Relations (IR) and mid-career professionals a direct exposure to the world of diplomacy.
The participants, hailing from diverse backgrounds and regions of Pakistan, appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from the diplomats at the embassy.
Read More: Danish Envoy Briefs IYDS Participants on Denmark’s Mission in Pakistan & Nordic Values
The Cultural Attaché at the embassy – Gleb Shubin – welcomed the participants, and apprised them of the recently-celebrated Victory Day, through a video that reflected on the fearless resistance the Soviet Union put up against invasion by the Nazi Germany during the World War II.
Gradually, the attaché turned to the history of Pakistan-Russia relations, which he laid out through visuals; spotlighting the moments that often go unnoticed in big headlines.
In another brief video, participants were informed about how Russia is open to all nationalities across the world when it comes to studying in Russian universities. Shubin shared how Pakistani students can also benefit from Russian government’s scholarships.
Read More: Participants of 7th International Young Diplomats School Visit Egyptian Embassy
Lastly, before opening the floor for questions, he highlighted how Russian foreign policy works; from the vision to the institutions, bodies, frameworks, and basic principles that drive it.
When asked about his favorite food in Pakistan, the Gleb Shubin said he likes biryani and kheer, adding the Russian taste and cuisine resembles in some ways to the meat-based cuisine of Pakistan’s northwest.
IPDS typically organizes the Young Diplomats School once a year as a unique platform to engage with diplomatic missions, learn about global opportunities, and strengthen people-to-people ties.
The school has gained popularity over the years as students and professionals from all over Pakistan apply and aspire to be a part of the yearly cohort.
The curated visits seek to nurture the next generation of Pakistani diplomats and policy professionals while supporting the public diplomacy outreach of diplomatic missions based in Pakistan.
Established in December 2008, The Diplomatic Insight is Pakistan’s premier diplomacy and foreign affairs magazine, available in both digital and print formats.
