On May 20, 2025, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics hosted the 5th All-Russian Congress of UNESCO Chairs aimed at exploring innovative approaches to international cooperation in education, science and culture. The event brought together representatives of leading Russian and international universities, members of public organizations and UNESCO Chair staff.

The UNESCO Chair "Cultural-Historical Psychology of Childhood" at MSUPE was represented by Andrey Konokotin, Deputy Head of the Chair. In his report he presented the Chair's experience and main areas of activity within the joint project with UNESCO:

"The Chair's main mission is to enhance the prestige and demand of theoretical principles and best practices of Russian psychological science school based on cultural-historical psychology and activity theory in the international professional community," emphasized Andrey Konokotin.

Deputy Director of the Department for Multilateral Cooperation and Cultural Relations at the Russian Foreign Ministry Stepan Kuzmenkov read the welcoming address by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. In his address the Minister noted:

"In today's world, cooperation in education, science and culture can both unite and divide nations. Unfortunately, the situation in recent years in a number of specialized UN agencies serves as an example. At the same time, it is gratifying that in your work you focus on genuine goals of international humanitarian cooperation - promoting mutual understanding and strengthening trust between states."

Within the Congress framework, participants discussed the cluster approach strategy for interaction and cooperation developed by the Russian Commission for UNESCO. Successful practices of UNESCO Chairs were also presented, including projects on preservation of cultural and historical heritage, sustainable territorial development, support for indigenous peoples, promotion of Russian language and culture abroad.

The Congress elected new membership of UNESCO Chairs Coordinating Committee, with Plekhanov Russian University of Economics Rector Ivan Lobanov unanimously elected as its Chair.

MSUPE also joined the Coordinating Committee represented by Andrey Konokotin.