Pinoy students join Russia-ASEAN youth summit

MANILA, Philippines - Filipino students were among the participants of the first Russia-Association of Southeast Asian Nations Youth Summit held last May 13-14 in Moscow, Russia.

"Under the theme “Young Russia - Young ASEAN: Dialogue for Connectivity,” the participants exchanged views on the role of the youth, academic institutions and mass media in promoting awareness and  better understanding between the peoples of Russia and ASEAN. Scholars and think tank experts from both sides, including Dr. Renato de Castro of the De La Salle University in Manila, served as resource persons during the discussions," the Department of Foreign Affairs said.

The state agency said the Philippine delegation was composed of Moscow- and Manila-based students Reanne Apostol (College of St. Benilde); Farrah Espejo (Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia); John Paul Mondejar (CSB); and Jhaline Villapando (DLSU - Dasmariñas). Filipino expatriates, Cheri Mapa of the Anglo American School of Moscow and Lenin Magallona of the Magallona Group - Restaurant Business Solutions and officials of the Philippine Embassy in Moscow were also present in the event.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov opened the summit with a welcome address highlighting the importance of cultural and people-to-people exchanges in fostering Russia-ASEAN dialogue partnership while Singaporean Ambassador Lim Kheng Hua delivered the introductory remarks on behalf of the ASEAN Moscow Committee. She underscored the milestones in the dialogue partnership even as she noted that Russia-ASEAN relations have yet to reach its full potential due to historical neglect.

The Youth Summit was organized by the ASEAN Centre with the support of the Russian Foreign Ministry and the ASEAN Moscow Committee. The two-day event gathered together more than 100 students, scholars, diplomats, young professionals, businessmen and journalists from Russia and ASEAN.