Published on: 2026-09-25
Source: Government of the Russian Federation –
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The XII International Forum of United Cultures has started its work in Saint Petersburg. The forum will last three days and will bring together leading cultural figures, representatives of government bodies, international organizations, and the professional community from dozens of countries.
The XII International Forum of United Cultures has started its work in Saint Petersburg.
“Culture reveals the soul of Russia – kind, generous, sincere. It cannot be canceled or isolated, because true culture always transcends borders and becomes a space for dialogue between people and countries. This is the essence of the main theme of the forum: by preserving their identity, different cultures are able to find what unites us. United cultures become common values,” emphasized Deputy Prime Minister, Chair of the forum’s organizing committee Tatiana Golikova.
The business program of the forum will combine 10 thematic areas: cinema, theater, museums, musical and media culture, cultural sovereignty and heritage, education, circus art, as well as the interaction of culture and new technologies. Already on the first day, participants will discuss the draft concept for the development of museums until 2030, the future of the Russian system of musical education, the impact of new technologies and artificial intelligence on culture and art, international theatrical cooperation, global approaches to restoration and heritage preservation.
“Culture is a language that does not require translation and is capable of overcoming the most difficult boundaries. Through it, Russia speaks to the world openly and sincerely, revealing its soul – generous, creative, and oriented toward dialogue. The St. Petersburg International Forum of United Cultures becomes a space where different traditions and worldviews do not divide but help to find common ground. This is the power of culture: preserving the originality of peoples, it forms values that can be understood and cherished by everyone,” noted Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of Russia and Executive Secretary of the Organizing Committee of the St. Petersburg International Forum of United Cultures.
During the forum days, a large-scale Culture Festival “Petersburg Seasons” is also taking place, featuring more than 200 events — from theatrical performances and special museum projects to unique musical programs and circus shows. On the historic stage of the Mariinsky Theatre, the National Ballet of Cuba will present “Giselle” staged by the legendary Alicia Alonso, a gala concert celebrating the 80th anniversary of Boris Eifman will be held at the Alexandrinsky Theatre, and the project “Russian Drama Theatre. On the 150th Anniversary of the Union of Theatre Workers” will open at the Central Exhibition Hall “Manege.”
“The wealth and strength of our country lie in the synergy of the unique culture, history, and distinctive traditions of our multi-confessional and multi-ethnic society. This unique cultural code is the foundation of national unity. However, the full and comprehensive development of any state is impossible without open, equal, and productive dialogue with the outside world. This is precisely the purpose of the forum: today, it is a dialogue of cultures, sometimes radically different but united by a common system of values based on mutual respect, understanding, and a constructive approach, that can help focus on truly important issues for the future and find optimal solutions,” emphasized Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova.
The 12th St. Petersburg International Forum of United Cultures takes place from September 24 to 26, 2026. The organizer is the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the Government of Russia, the Ministry of Culture of Russia, and the government of St. Petersburg.
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