Penza, 14 May 2014. PenzaNews. Russian and foreign students studying in the universities of the country are taking part in the Third International Forum “Dialogue of Cultures,” which began its work in Penza State University (PSU) on Wednesday, May 14.

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Welcoming those present at the opening event, PSU rector Alexander Gulyakov noted that the situation in which the forum is hosted should serve as an example of good neighborly relations and mutual understanding between peoples and nations.

“I am very proud that this event is taking place in Penza State University. We will do our best to support it,” he said.

According to Alexander Gulyakov, the idea of peace and tolerance should be promoted in universities.

He also reminded that foreigners, who were educated in Russia during the Soviet era, made great strides in their professional activities, and expressed confidence in the ability of the present-day universities to regain glory of the best in the world.

In turn, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Benin in Russia Gabriel Kochofa, who was invited to the forum including dignitaries from African States, thanked the people for the warm welcome of Penza residents, which they demonstrate towards the foreigners.

“I am delighted that the multinational Penza has initiatedsuch an event that unites us. Forum is a unique platform for meeting, for friendship, it makes us kinder,” he said.

Gabriel Kochofa added that Russian universities give a start in life to the representatives of many countries and expressed hope for further fruitful cooperation.

The deputy chairman of the regional government Vladimir Maltsev called for using cultural and spiritual potential of the peoples living on the territory of Russia, including the Penza region.

“Univesity time is a wonderful period in the life of a young person which is also important because during this time self-determination is formed,” he said.

As news agency PenzaNews reported earlier, the forum has various discussion platforms, among them are the so-called houses of national literature, cuisine, music and traditions and attractions.

In addition, the program includes training “Unity in diversity: My successful future” and legal forum “Youth choice — the Internet without terrorism.”

Moreover, the forum launched an educational camp for foreign students “POLIS — 2014.”