Russian Cultural Center Director: "I Drank from the Nile — And Came Back with Love"

In a heartfelt and reflective conversation with SEE News, Dr. Vadim Zaychikov, Director of the Russian Cultural Center in Cairo, shared his personal and professional journey across the Arab world, culminating in his return to Egypt—a country he describes as his “second home.”

Having spent more than two decades fostering cultural ties across the Arab world — including Alexandria, Amman, Beirut, and Damascus — Zaychikov now finds himself once again in Egypt, a country he says he never truly left.

“I studied international relations in Arabic back in Russia, and Egypt was my first post abroad,” he recalled. “Twenty years ago, I studied at Cairo University, and later served as Deputy Director of the Russian Cultural Center in Alexandria. After time in Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria, I’ve returned to Egypt — and as the saying goes, once you drink from the Nile, you always come back. I returned with love for this country.”

Zaychikov highlighted the deep-rooted nature of Russian–Egyptian cultural exchange. “Tens of thousands of Egyptians have studied in Russia over the decades,” he said. “Many are now professors, scientists, and public officials — living bridges between our countries.”

He also emphasized the ongoing collaboration between the Writers’ Unions of both nations and growing cooperation in arts and literature. “Culture is a universal language. It speaks when words fall short. That’s why we’re expanding literary translations, exhibitions, and performances.”

A key mission of the Russian Cultural Center, Zaychikov explained, is managing Russia’s scholarship program for Egyptian students. “From September 15, 2025, through January 15, 2026, applications are open for 338 fully-funded scholarships across fields such as medicine, engineering, arts, and nuclear energy. It’s an incredible opportunity to study at top Russian universities.”

Language education, he stressed, is at the heart of the center’s work. “Teaching Russian is essential to understanding our culture. That’s why we’re expanding our language programs — not just for students, but for children, professionals, and artists alike. Language is the first step to mutual understanding.”

The Cairo-based “House of Russia” is a hub of cooperation with Egyptian partners. “We work closely with the Ministry of Culture, the Academy of Arts, and even the High Dam Builders Association — an enduring symbol of our friendship,” he said. “We aim to launch joint cultural programs and discover new creative talents.”

Zaychikov also praised the Egyptian–Russian Friendship Society and the Association of Graduates from Russian Universities, calling them “true ambassadors of Russian culture.” These partnerships support seminars, exhibitions, and community events that sustain people-to-people connections.

“Russian culture should not be confined to our center’s walls,” he said. “We bring it to Egyptian governorates, universities, and festivals. We want every Egyptian to feel that Russian culture is close and accessible.”

Looking ahead, Zaychikov revealed plans to launch a program aimed at training Egyptian tourism professionals in Russian language and customs. “This will enhance tourism by helping local guides and staff better connect with Russian visitors.”

He also marked a milestone: “This year, we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Federal Agency for International Cooperation — Russia’s public diplomacy arm. Through culture, education, science, and people-to-people outreach, we continue to strengthen ties with Egypt.”

In his final message to Egypt’s youth, Zaychikov was heartfelt: “Embrace the opportunities Russia offers — in education, the arts, and culture. Learn the Russian language. It opens doors. Twenty years ago, I came here for the first time. Today, I’m back — and our journey of friendship continues.”