A delegation consisting of Issaev Leonid, Vice Director of the Center for Stability and Risk Analysis , and Prof. Andrei Zakharov of HSE University of Russia visited the Policy Studies Institute (PSI) on October 10, 2023.

Policy Studies Institute_Addis Ababa

H.E. Prof. Beyene Petros, Director General of PSI , said he had been to Moscow several times in the 1990s. Prof. Beyene mentioned that he has previous experience with Russia and has colleagues in his field in Moscow. He recalled a research project he had undertaken in collaboration with the Soviet Academy of Sciences in the past. He also highlighted ongoing collaborations between Russian and Ethiopian colleagues. This suggests that there is active cooperation and research exchange between the two countries in these specific fields.

Prof. Beyene provided further details about the Policy Studies Institute (PSI). He mentioned that the institute consists of 14 research centers, each specializing in different areas. These centers focus on both economic and social issues, including department dedicated to governance. Prof. Beyene clarified that PSI serves as a multipurpose institution that advises the government on a wide range of economic and social matters. The institute's core mission is to conduct research, analyze data, and provide policymakers with valuable information derived from these reports. Prof. Beyene emphasized that the outputs of PSI's policy research can contribute to policy improvements, additions, or changes. Ultimately, he underscored that PSI is an institution specifically established for policy research and policy dialogue.

The Russian delegation expressed their enthusiasm for their visit to Ethiopia and their interest in collaborating with the Policy Studies Institute (PSI). They considered it a valuable opportunity for cooperation. Issaev Leonid and Prof. Andrei Zakharov, in particular, mentioned that it was their first time visiting Ethiopia. The delegation expressed familiarity with PSI, acknowledging its significance as an important think tank in Ethiopia. Their knowledge of PSI further highlighted their interest in engaging with the institute and exploring potential avenues for collaboration.

During the joint discussion, Leonid, Vice Director of the Center of Stability and Risk Analysis, provided further information about his institute. He highlighted that he is a senior research fellow in digital African studies at the Russian Academy of Sciences, which is the oldest and sole think tank dedicated to Africa in Russia. He mentioned that the center is responsible for shaping the academic and scientific agenda for various summits, such as the Russia-Africa Summit, the Economic Summit, and the Second Summit.

Leonid also mentioned his cooperation with the Russian parliament and the interparliamentary group focused on African parliament-related issues.

Additionally, Prof. Zakharov, a senior research fellow at the Center for Risk and Stability Analysis, was introduced as an expert on Russian federalism. He has authored a notable book on the subject and is currently working on additional publications.

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