Renmin University of China has prioritized exchanges and cooperation with Russia as a strategic focus of its international engagement, establishing a high-level network of cooperative partnerships.

This year marks the beginning of China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030) period, the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination, the 25th anniversary of the signing of the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation, and the beginning of the China-Russia Years of Education (2026–2027).

From March 15 to 19, a delegation led by Zhang Donggang, Party secretary of RUC, visited Russia, becoming the first Chinese university delegation to do so since the launch of the China-Russia Years of Education.

The delegation visited five leading Russian universities, including Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg State University of Economics, the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (RANEPA), the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, and the Stieglitz State Academy of Art and Design.

They also visited the Chinese Embassy in Russia, and attended the China–Russia Education and Economic Dialogue, a symposium co-hosted by Renmin University of China and the Free Economic Society of Russia. These activities aimed to advance joint talent cultivation, strengthen collaborative research, and deepen mutual learning in governance.

On March 16, the delegation visited the Stieglitz State Academy of Art and Design, where they met with Tatiana Kasakova, director of the Administrative Office of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, and Alexander Lavrentyev, vice president of the academy. The two sides signed a Memorandum of Academic Cooperation between Renmin University of China and the Stieglitz State Academy of Art and Design. The partnership will focus on frontier areas such as cultural heritage restoration and digital preservation, as well as the integration of digital technology and design. Joint dual-degree programs, workshops, and masterclasses in painting and art design will be established to cultivate distinctive artistic talent.

Also on March 16, the delegation visited the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (RANEPA) and met with its rector, Alexey Komissarov. The two institutions signed a cooperation agreement to establish joint dual-degree programs, executive training programs, and specialized courses. This collaboration aims to explore new models for cultivating high-level governance talent and to nurture future leaders with both strong governance capabilities and a global perspective.

On March 18, the delegation visited Saint Petersburg State University of Economics and met with its rector, Igor Maksimtsev. The two sides signed an agreement on a joint dual master’s degree program. Centered on key areas such as energy, the program will foster high-level interdisciplinary talent through student exchanges, academic seminars, and short-term programs, thereby contributing to China–Russia strategic cooperation and aiming to build a leading platform for talent development in the energy sector.