🗓 On March 24, the Diplomatic Academy of the Russian Foreign Ministry at MGIMO hosted a scholarly diplomatic symposium marking the 250th anniversary of Ioannis Kapodistrias, an outstanding diplomat and prominent statesman of Russia and Greece, as well as 210 years since his appointment as head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Empire (1816-1822).

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov sent his greetings to the organisers and guests of the conference. The event brought together Russian and Greek public figures, representatives of scientific societies, and researchers.

During his years of service at Russia’s Foreign Ministry, Ioannis Kapodistrias made a significant contribution to building stable international relations on the European continent.

As a close associate of Emperor Alexander I, Ioannis Kapodistrias successfully upheld the principle of mutual consideration of interests – an approach that remains relevant today – at the Congress of Vienna (1814-1815).

He consistently advocated the development of #RussiaGreece ties on the solid foundation of centuries-old friendship, spiritual and cultural affinity, and shared historical experience.

It is symbolic that Russia-Greece diplomatic relations between our countries were established in 1828, when he was already serving as Governor of the Greek State, though before Greece had officially attained full independence from the Ottoman Empire.

We consider such events important and valuable, as they help preserve the people’s memory of the glorious pages of our shared past. This is especially relevant today, when Western elites are engaged in a deliberate effort to discredit Russia and its role in the world.

☝️ For our part, we will continue to support efforts to preserve the memory of Russian diplomats who left behind a timeless intellectual legacy – such as Ioannis Kapodistrias.