19.06.2026
On June 17, 2026, as part of events marking the 135th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and Mexico, a landmark visit took place at RSUH by a delegation from the Embassy of Mexico in the Russian Federation, headed by His Excellency Mr. Eduardo Villegas Mejía, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mexico to the Russian Federation. The delegation also included: Alberto Eduardo Ascaño Juárez, Head of the International Cooperation Department of the Embassy of Mexico in the Russian Federation, Embassy staff member Vladislav Naryshkin, and Professor Mauricio Alonso Estevez.
Particular attention during the visit was devoted to the unique scholarly heritage that links RSUH with Mexican culture. Welcoming the guests, Vera Ivanovna Zabotkina, Acting Vice-Rector for International Cooperation, emphasized that for RSUH, Mexico is not just a geographically distant partnership, but a profound, multifaceted, interdisciplinary collaboration.
In his opening remarks, the Ambassador underscored the multi-layered nature of bilateral relations. It was noted that the ties between our peoples are built not only at the level of diplomacy, but also through art, history, and science: from the influence of Mexican muralists Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros to the fates of Soviet cultural figures who found inspiration in Mexican traditions.
The central event of the visit was an open lecture by Professor Mauricio Alonso Estevez of the National Autonomous University of Mexico, a recipient of numerous international awards and a respected expert in sociology, political science, and international relations, who presented an analytical overview of the historical retrospective of relations between the two countries.
Professor Estevez paid special attention to historical parallels — from the presence of the Russian Empire in North America to the parallel revolutionary processes of the early twentieth century.
During the discussion, issues of overcoming cultural stereotypes and the importance of public and scientific diplomacy were addressed. The professor noted that there exists a deep inner similarity between Russians and Mexicans — in openness, hospitality, and the sincerity of human relations.
Considerable interest from the audience was aroused by questions of technological and educational exchange. Students inquired about opportunities for research internships and programs. Following the lecture, a discussion took place on the possibility of expanding cooperation between RSUH and Mexican universities.
In conclusion, it was noted that RSUH remains a flagship for the study of Mesoamerican culture in Russia and is ready to expand the field of joint research projects.
The Russian State University for the Humanities expresses its gratitude to the Ambassador of Mexico to the Russian Federation, Mr. Eduardo Villegas Mejía, and to Professor Mauricio Estevez of the National Autonomous University of Mexico for a substantive dialogue and their contribution to the development of international cooperation.
