Energy cooperation is heating up! Specialists from ASEAN countries are in Russia for an exciting exchange of knowledge and best practices in the crucial field of fuel and energy. This initiative, the InteRussia International Fellowship Programme, titled 'The Changing Energy Landscape,' is set to take place in St. Petersburg and Moscow in November–December 2025. It's a collaborative effort, spearheaded by St. Petersburg State University of Economics, alongside key partners like the Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund, the Russia–ASEAN Business Council, and the TV BRICS International Media Network, with support from the Presidential Grant Foundation, the Russian Energy Agency, and the Global Energy Association.
"Today, energy is becoming not just an industry but a space for strategic partnership," says Igor Maksimtsev, Rector of St. Petersburg State University of Economics. He highlights the program's role in fostering a new generation of globally competitive specialists. The program aims to boost professional knowledge and develop leadership and teamwork skills.
Participants from Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Myanmar, representing the public sector, academia, industry, and associations, are involved. The project's goal is to build strong business connections and enhance economic and scientific-technical ties between Russia and ASEAN nations.
"Regional energy security and sovereignty issues are central to Russia–ASEAN cooperation," explains Daniyar Akkaziev, CEO of the Russia-ASEAN Business Council. He emphasizes the program's significance in exploring technological cooperation, sharing expertise, and promoting joint projects in the energy sector.
During the fellowship, participants will delve into international energy security, the evolving energy relations between Russia and ASEAN, strategies for a low-carbon economy, energy price dynamics, and carbon emission reduction. They will also have the opportunity to meet with industry leaders, government officials, and visit important energy infrastructure sites.
Aleksandra Burman, Director of the International Cooperation Department at TV BRICS, notes that energy security is a priority for their media space. TV BRICS supports the InteRussia fellowship to unite expert communities and deliver objective information. She points out that the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro highlighted energy security as fundamental for socio-economic development and the well-being of all member states.
Interestingly, TV BRICS has previously supported similar InteRussia programs. In 2024 and 2025, they were co-organizers and information partners for fellowships focused on Latin America and the Caribbean. These programs included representatives from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, El Salvador, Chile, and Ecuador.
Sergey Orlov, Deputy Executive Director of the Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund, emphasizes the importance of the InteRussia program for both Russia and ASEAN countries. He believes it will foster multilateral dialogue and lead to new joint projects, particularly given the growing energy demands and the need for energy solutions in Southeast Asia.
But here's where it gets controversial...
TV BRICS has also co-organized and acted as an international information partner for the InteRussia fellowship in theatrical arts in 2024 and 2025. During Russia’s BRICS chairmanship, the documentary "Worthy of Applause: New Roles for BRICS+ Actors" was produced and premiered in several foreign countries.
What do you think? Are these types of international collaborations crucial for global energy security and development? Do you see any potential challenges or opportunities in this partnership? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
