On 16th of  May a delegation from of Arts, Sciences and Technology University in Lebanon paid an official visit to Penza State University. University President Professor Adnan Hamzeh, Dean of the Faculty of Sciences and Fine Arts Professor Ali Hamie and representative of the University Dr. Bashir Samaha arrived in Russia with the aim of strengthening international scientific and educational cooperation with leading universities of the country.

"Russia plays an important role for Lebanon, and not only as a peacemaker. I am sure that Russia plays key role in the world. We will gladly cooperate with educational institutions", - the President of the University in Lebanon Adnan Hamzeh in his thank-you speech to the representatives of University Penza.

Penza State University today has an extensive network of international partners. Cooperation agreements were signed with 70 organizations from 32 countries of the world.

The Rector of PSU Aleksandr Gulyakov told the guests about the history of the University, its structure and educational and scientific potential.

The Vice-Rector for International Affairs Sergei Vasin presented the possibilities of the Penza State University, listed the main scientific areas of educational and administrative work. "In the long term, through cooperation with the University in Lebanon, we will be able to organize joint participation in Erasmus+ projects. Hope we can find common interests to apply for grants", said S. Vasin. The next stage of possible cooperation, as presented by the Vice-Rector of PSU, is the consortium of universities, that, presumably, will unite 3 Universities of EU, 2 Universities of the Russian Federation and 2 Universities of Lebanon.

"The Consortium will allow us to implement joint projects and expect serious grant financial support," he added.

The representatives of 2 Universities discussed implementing joint educational programs in bachelor’s and specialist’s degrees. Lebanon university expressed its strong interest in joint education and research programs.

The Dean of the Faculty of Sciences and Fine Arts made a presentation on Arts, Sciences and Technology University in Lebanon, and answered the questions from Russian colleagues.

The logical outcome of the round table was the signing of a cooperation agreement between Penza State University and the Arts, Sciences and Technology University in Lebanon.