Russia and ASEAN agree to strengthen cultural cooperation and preserve heritage

Russia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have agreed to intensify cooperation in preserving and promoting cultural and linguistic diversity, according to a joint declaration adopted at a summit in Kazan on June 18, 2026. The agreement encompasses both traditional and contemporary cultural initiatives, reflecting a broad commitment to strengthening ties between the two parties through cultural exchange and heritage preservation.

Under the accord, Russia and ASEAN member states committed to preserve and promote linguistic and cultural diversity through multiple channels, including digital media platforms and the digital environment. The parties aim to strengthen cultural expression, foster intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding, while supporting humanitarian cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. They also pledged to encourage the development of contacts in folk art and traditional crafts through exhibitions, festivals, traditional celebrations and performances by folklore ensembles.

The agreement emphasizes cooperation in organizing cultural forums that bring together representatives of both traditional and contemporary creative professions, including musicians, artists, performers, composers, poets, writers and other cultural figures. This initiative is designed to advance intercultural dialogue and cooperation in the arts between Russia and ASEAN nations. Additionally, the parties plan to expand support for protecting, preserving and promoting tangible and intangible cultural heritage through the exchange of experience, knowledge, expertise, skills and technologies among relevant authorities and institutions in the fields of culture and the arts.

Further commitments include encouraging interdisciplinary cooperation among cultural experts, researchers and scholars to advance research activities in heritage preservation. The declaration also supports educational programs in culture and the arts, creative industries, and youth initiatives focused on heritage preservation and innovation. These comprehensive measures reflect a mutual commitment to fostering inclusive and mutually beneficial engagement in cultural cooperation.