Russia and UK sign landmark cultural agreement

Relations between Russia and the UK look set to thaw as representatives from both countries signed a landmark agreement that will see a major programme of arts and culture activities in both countries in 2014. The agreement was signed by Foreign Secretary William Hague and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who have previously spoken at depth about the importance of cultural relations as a means of strengthening trust between the two countries.

Hague said: “The British Council is now working with Russian partners and ministries on a programme of special events in Russia to mark the 2014 Russia UK Year of Culture, which will further deepen our cultural ties and boost people to people links.”

The cultural year will cover the arts but also other areas such as education, language, science, the creative industries and sports.