Under a presidential decree, International Bridge Awards was established to recognize entrepreneurial contributions and to foster dialogue on attracting special talents to Russia. International Bridge Awards was established for talented and ambitious professionals from around the world, including renowned athletes, scientists, entrepreneurs, and public figures. Sergei Georgievskii, Co-founder, Chairman of the Expert Panel, Agency for Strategic Development “CENTER” (Bridge Awards organizer), discusses the main reasons for tapping foreign talents from abroad and its significance for building Russia’s society and its economy. Here are the interview excerpts:

Can we reflect back, a little bit, on the driving reasons for establishing ‘Bridge of friendship Awards’ as a center of attracting outstanding talents from around the world?

Sergei Georgievskii: Over the last few years the world has undergone massive changes: even fields like science, culture, and sports have become dependent on politics. However, Russia and Moscow remain open to people who share the values of our culture. People from all over the world continue to come here to fulfill their potential. The mission of the award is to highlight this influx, disprove the claim that we are somehow isolated, and demonstrate how vital foreigners’ contributions can be to any area of Russian life. It aims to showcase our opportunities to those who are considering working with Russia or moving to the country. Half a million foreigners have moved here to live and work, making a significant contribution to the development of science, medicine, education, sports, and culture. Part of their integration involves recognizing their accomplishments and telling their stories. By doing so we make our country and Moscow increasingly........

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