October 13, 2025
State Duma, Moscow, Russian Federation
The State Duma of the Russian Federation hosted a landmark event on October 13, 2025, marking two remarkable milestones — the presentation of the BRICS International Award 2025 to Abusupyan Kharkharov and the grand celebration of seven years of digital publication of The Times of Russia – Where Hearts and Thoughts Unite.
Originally founded in 1941 as a small press in Moscow, The Times of Russia made its digital debut in 2018, continuing its legacy as a publication rooted in truth, cultural integrity, and intellectual exchange. The 2025 celebration thus symbolized not only a revival of its historic voice but also the culmination of seven years of digital excellence in journalism and international diplomacy.
The prestigious event, organized by The Times of Russia Group in collaboration with the BRICS Culture Media Forum (BCMF), brought together diplomats, political leaders, academicians, and media representatives from BRICS+ nations and beyond — reflecting a shared commitment to dialogue, peace, and cultural cooperation.
Abusupyan Kharkharov Receives BRICS International Award 2025
The highlight of the evening was the conferral of the BRICS International Award 2025 upon Abusupyan Kharkharov, a distinguished figure celebrated for his extraordinary contributions to spiritual education, cultural development, and maritime innovation.
The award citation lauded his visionary leadership in advancing education, maritime affairs, and societal welfare — underscoring his lifelong dedication to human progress, moral values, and global understanding.
Mr. Kharkharov’s recognition echoes the BRICS Culture Media Forum’s ongoing mission to honor leaders whose work transcends borders and promotes collective responsibility for peace and sustainable development.
Rebirth and Legacy of “The Times of Russia – Where Hearts and Thoughts Unite”
The occasion also celebrated the rebirth of The Times of Russia — one of the nation’s most respected media institutions. Revered for its balanced reporting and commitment to truth, the publication continues to embody Russia’s tradition of intellectual journalism and intercultural dialogue.
In his remarks, Sergei Dvorianov, Vice President of the BRICS Culture Media Forum and a renowned journalist, described the publication’s revival as “a renaissance of trust and dialogue — proof that journalism can still serve as a bridge between nations, ideas, and hearts.”
Round Table: Global Initiatives of BRICS+ Countries
As part of the celebration, a round table titled “Global Initiatives of the BRICS+ Countries in the Fields of Economy, New Technologies, Culture, and Education” was held under the aegis of the BRICS Culture Media Forum in partnership with the Universal Peace Federation (UPF).
Moderated by Sergei Dvorianov, the session featured key figures such as State Duma Deputy Andrey Svintsov and H.E. Genet Teshome Jirru, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.
Deputy Svintsov highlighted the growing relevance of humanitarian and spiritual initiatives within BRICS+, calling for innovative partnerships in global education and cultural diplomacy. Ambassador Jirru reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Russia in education, culture, and peacebuilding.
Peace and Humanitarian Cooperation
A major focus of the event was humanitarian cooperation and moral leadership.
Sergey Shurygin, President of the International Academy for the Spiritual Unity of the World’s Nations, proposed the creation of a “Millennium Peace Prize” — a Russian counterpart to the Nobel Peace Prize — to honor global peacemakers who advance unity beyond politics.
Representing the Universal Peace Federation, Dmitry Samko emphasized the values of interdependence, mutual prosperity, and universal ethics, introducing the Ambassadors for Peace initiative to recognize individuals who embody compassion and social leadership.
Honouring Global Peacemakers
Two new Ambassadors for Peace were formally recognized during the celebration:
Arseny Vladimirovich Kaptelov, for global efforts ensuring access to clean water and youth empowerment — supporting UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation for All.
Vasily Petrovich Zovdun, Vice President of the Center for Business Cooperation with Foreign Countries, for strengthening humanitarian and economic ties with Africa and leading impactful charitable initiatives.
Participants also endorsed the nomination of H.E. Ambassador Genet Teshome Jirru for the upcoming Ambassador for Peace distinction, recognizing his unwavering dedication to diplomacy and unity.
A Shared Vision for Peace and Progress
The event concluded with a collective affirmation of the shared vision of the BRICS Culture Media Forum and The Times of Russia — to uphold peace, cultural harmony, and cooperation among nations through dialogue and ethical journalism.
The 7th digital anniversary celebration of The Times of Russia was hailed as more than a milestone — it was a testament to resilience, truth, and the timeless power of words to unite humanity.
As one of the speakers eloquently concluded:
“The Times of Russia once again becomes a voice where hearts and thoughts unite — a timeless symbol of friendship among nations and faith in the power of truth.”
