Russia & St Lucia Tighten Academic Ties

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Press Statement

Release Date

Saturday, December 3, 2011

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St Lucians have been told to expect some academic benefits, in the field of science and technology, as their government enhances diplomatic relations with Russia.

The two have signed a Protocol of Intentions which will, among other things, provide a number of state scholarships at Russian universities and territory institutions.

"This protocol of intention allows us to move in the multilateral arena and to hold discussions in terms of improving our bilateral relations," Minister of External Affairs, International Trade and Investment, Rufus Bousquet said.

"Of course it also includes a clause which allows us to put high level experts to hold discussions on matters of mutual interestWe understand that Russia has a very strong academic record in the areas of engineering and I am sure that there will be many St Lucians who would like to take advantage of that expertise."

Russia's Ambassador designate to St Lucia, Victor Zotin, said that the island's tourism industry will also receive assistance as his government's is willing to collaborate to boost tourist arrivals from his country.

"I hope very much that the other steps will follow this document and we shall develop a relationship between our two states. We are interested in developing all round relations with your country: education, investments and tourism which is very important for your country. I hope very much that more and more Russians will come to your beautiful island of St Lucia," Ambassador Zotin said.

The two countries formally established diplomatic relations in 1979, soon after the country gained political independence from Great Britain.

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