On June 23, following the grand opening of the International Youth Forum “Eurasia Global,” Yevgeny Solntsev, Governor of the Orenburg Region, held a dialogue with young participants from Russia, China, Iran, Zambia, India, Bangladesh, Canada, Uzbekistan, Colombia, and Nigeria. The discussion offered attendees an opportunity to pose questions to the governor, gain deeper insight into the region's development prospects, and share their impressions of the forum’s opening day.
For the 11th consecutive year, the Orenburg Region has welcomed an energetic and civically engaged young people dedicated to fostering a multicultural community. Yevgeny Solntsev emphasised that this tradition is not accidental and is rooted in the region’s geographical position, cultural heritage, and historical legacy.
“Our region is home to over 120 ethnic groups. Our people are open-minded, hospitable, and know how to be really good friends. That is precisely why international initiatives find both a platform and support here. We create an environment where young people feel at ease, and where the exchange of experiences and ideas proceeds freely and on an equal footing. The Orenburg Region is a place where bridges are built, not walls,” said Yevgeny Solntsev.
In keeping with tradition, the forum brought together representatives of the International Friendship Clubs (IFC) – a flagship project of the World Youth Festival Directorate. The IFCs are dedicated to cultivating a global youth community, facilitating open and honest dialogue among young people from different countries, even amid a complex geopolitical landscape. The governor commended the clubs’ ongoing efforts and expressed his gratitude for their persistent commitment:
“Today, during this challenging geopolitical period, youth diplomacy is gaining particular significance. IFCs serve as platforms where young people from diverse nations can communicate directly, without intermediaries or political barriers. They learn to understand one another, respect different cultures, and identify common goals. I am confident that these connections will endure for a lifetime, and it is upon you to shape the future we all wish to inhabit.”
The meeting also addressed the Orenburg Region’s contributions to international relations. Members from the regional IFCs presented key achievements, while the topic of international students enrolled at Orenburg’s universities drew considerable attention. Special adaptation programmes are organised for foreign students, and thanks to the activities of the local IFC, 17 individuals from Bangladesh are currently enrolled in university preparatory courses.
Support is extended to all young people in the region. A multifunctional centre has been established in the region, serving as a hub of opportunity and unity.
“The most important thing is for all young people – both local and international – to feel that their voices are heard, and that their ideas are needed and matter. We are not merely constructing youth centres as buildings, but as spaces where you can implement your projects, find like-minded peers, and receive the support,” Yevgeny Solntsev stated.
The International Youth Forum “Eurasia Global” will run until 28 June. Participants will not only work on advancing the IFCs but will also have the chance to explore the Orenburg Region and draw inspiration from its successful local initiatives, cultural and historical landmarks, and natural and industrial sites. The governor underscored the breadth and richness of the region and offered a closing message to the young delegates from 24 countries around the world:
“You will remember Eurasia – and you will remember it fondly. Because here you found friends; here you realised that borders exist only on maps, not in life. Here you felt yourselves part of something big and meaningful … I wish you courage – the courage to dream, the courage to act, and the courage to be yourselves. Take home warm memories of our hospitality, of our friendly people, and of the beauty of the Orenburg steppe. Take with you new ideas and projects. And above all, take your friends with you – true friends, for life. Remember: you are not merely guests here. You are part of the greater ‘Eurasia Global’ family. And we will always be delighted to welcome you back.”
Overview:
The World Youth Festival took place in Sirius on March 1-7, 2024, according to the Decree of Russian President Vladimir Putin on the development of international youth cooperation. The WYF-2024 brought together 20,000 young leaders from 190 countries.
In line with the Russian President’s instructions to preserve and further develop the legacy of the World Youth Festival, festival events are now held annually across the Russian Federation. In 2025, the World Youth Festival Assembly was held in Nizhny Novgorod, bringing together 2,000 young people from 120 countries. In 2026, the International Festival of Youth will welcome 10,000 participants. The next World Youth Festival for 20,000 participants will take place in 2030.
The World Youth Festival Directorate continues its work to strengthen international youth cooperation and develop a global community of young people committed to shaping a better future.