Corrigendum to“Russia’s Public Diplomacy in AGEAN Countries”

For many centuries, Russia has been promoting interesting public diplomacy practices, and the reasons for the current attractiveness of Russia for foreign migrants go back to the centuries-old Russian tradition of inviting foreigners.

The relevance of the topic is due to the need for a deep analysis and understanding of Russia's interests in Southeast Asia, as well as the identification of the main trends and prospects for the development of cooperation in this region.

Together, they form the image of the country in the eyes of representatives of the target audience.

In Southeast Asia, the Agency is represented in seven countries – Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam; and is absent in four countries of the region - in Brunei, Myanmar, Thailand.

An analysis of Rossotrudnichestvo's social networks in Southeast Asia shows that they are not always focused on the younger generation of the target audience and meet their values. Posts and infographics are reduced to narrow target groups of compatriots and sympathizers; many social groups remain uncovered.

At the same time, it can be said that Russia in the region is almost not represented in the film industry, in the field of museum cooperation or contacts through art galleries.

Important actors of the Russian science diplomacy are universities and institutes of the Academy of Sciences that deal with international relations, hold conferences and interact with the foreign scientific community.

At the same time, it should be noted that without systematic state funding, it is extremely difficult to effectively export Russian education to the countries of the region.

Russian business diplomacy in ASEAN countries is focused on supporting export-oriented Russian business, promoting domestic brands abroad, leveling the sanctions pressure on Russian companies, and attracting institutional foreign investors.

Initiatives such as regional economic forums, the creation of the Russian Export Centre, the Russian House for International Scientific and Technical Cooperation, the launch of international projects of the Agency for Strategic Initiatives, the opening of the Moscow School of Management Skolkovo, and the successful foreign economic activity of Russian companies have a positive impact on Russian business diplomacy, but much remains to be done.

Sub-state diplomacy plays an important role in promoting the Russian business diplomacy in ASEAN countries.

The digital economy of Southeast Asia may reach $1 trillion by 2030, and the ASEAN e-commerce market is one of the most dynamically developing in the world.

In general, the development of Russian business diplomacy in the countries of the region seems very promising.

These complex processes require both interdepartmental coordination and the involvement of the expert community and an active civil society.

At the same time, it is closely related to foreign economic interests, since it should create favorable conditions for the work of Russian companies through the loyalty of a wide range of foreign audiences towards them.