Italian Minister of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism, Dario Franceschini, confirmed his participation at the St. Petersburg International Cultural Forum, which is taking place on December, 14-16 in St. Petersburg.

“The Minister of Culture is coming to St. Petersburg in December to become a part of the Cultural Forum. He visited Russia once last March and now is coming back in December. This emphasizes the importance of culture in our cooperation. Second visit during this year – it is very significant, - outlines the increased role of culture Agostino Pinna, First Counsellor of the Embassy of Italy in the Russian Federation.

It is expected that official representatives of the two countries will manage to negotiate a possible launch of joint initiatives and projects, which would give a subsequent impetus to the enhancement of bilateral cooperation in cultural sphere.

IV St. Petersburg International Cultural Forum, dedicated to the 70th anniversary of UNESCO, will become a prime discussion platform for key experts in the sphere of culture and art, businessmen and state officials. Russian and international specialists will discuss problems and perspectives of extension of international cooperation, and present world experience of promotion of cultural values.