The first Russian language and culture center has opened in the Paraguayan capital of Asuncion, RIA Novosti reported on January 30.
Ulyana Romanenko, head of the center, stated that “Russian language classes at the center will be absolutely free. We will start recruiting next week, but groups will gather quickly.”
Romanenko explained that the center serves individuals who want to study Russian, read literature in its original form, plan to study in Russia, have Russian roots, or simply cultivate an interest in Russian culture. The center plans to organize cultural events including literary club meetings, Russian cinema screenings, mini-symposiums on Fyodor Dostoevsky’s works, and poetic karaoke.
Dina Oyun, head of the Russian House in Buenos Aires, attended the opening event. She noted that she had donated educational materials and fiction to the center’s library, as well as organized a photo exhibition about Russia’s peoples, which made “a strong impression on participants.”
Russian Ambassador to Paraguay Alexander Pisarev highlighted the high interest in the Russian language in Paraguay. According to him, more than 150 people signed up for beginner courses last year. He added that the center was opened with support from the Russkiy Mir Foundation and will focus on teaching Russian, promoting Russian culture and literature, as well as organizing cultural and educational events such as lectures, conversation clubs, film screenings, and interviews.
