A special lecture was held by Andrea Giannotti, Doctor of Political Science, Professor of the University of Pisa for participants of the «School for Foreign Affairs Newbie» («School for FAN»)
On October 27, the project «School for FAN» participants took part in a lecture on «Russian-European relations, historical prospects».
The lecture speaker was Andrea Giannotti, Doctor of Political Science, Professor of the University of Pisa, expert on the development of cooperation at the IPACS Russian-Italian centre.
Karolina Sikirinskaya, Head of the Department for International Cooperation IPACS, addressed the participants with an introductory speech. She welcomed the students and introduced them to the speaker. Andrea Giannotti attended the event online. Karolina Sikirinskaya said that she hopes for an early meeting of the professor with «School for FAN» students in person.
The event consisted of two parts: a lecture and Q&A section. At the lecture, students learned more about the international relations history between Russia and Europe. The project participants discussed prospects of relations development in the future considering the present events, and tried to answer the question: «Where is Russia really located: Europe or Asia?». Professor Giannotti shared his expert opinion on the Italian perception of Russia, thus dispelling some myths.
Both the lecture and the ensuing dialogue were conducted in English. Students got an excellent opportunity to practice the perception of English speech by ear, and were able to ask questions in a foreign language.
The participants shared their impressions of the lecture within the «School for Foreign Affairs Newbie».
Victoria Torun, 1st year student of the program «Politics and Law» of the Faculty of International Regional Studies and Regional Management:
«Andrea Giannotti’s lecture was very useful and interesting to me. The professor told everything in an accessible and understandable language, and also answered all our questions. The content of the lecture-conversation consisted of a discussion about Russia’s relations with other countries today. In addition, the material presented during the lecture has a novelty and relevance that causes great interest among students».
Veronica Alexeeva, 1st year student of the program «Politics and Law» of the Faculty of International Regional Studies and Regional Management:
«I really enjoyed the lecture of the professor, it was very interesting to listen to him talk about the future of international relations and find out what Italians really think about our country, if they want to come and study here. I really hope to attend a lecture like this again in the future».
Yulia Safarova, a 1st year student of «International relations» of one of the RANEPA institute – IURR:
«The lecture was amazing. It is very interesting to know the opinion of a foreign political scientist about Russia and its historical development. Especially liked the fact that the professor was not afraid to express his opinion on the situation in the international arena».