As part of the "Days of Russia" event, the University of Banja Luka (UNIBL) hosted a delegation from the Russian Federation led by Prof. Marina Aleksandrovna Ponomareva, PhD, from the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation in Moscow.

The visit provided an opportunity to discuss new forms of cooperation between the two higher education institutions. Accordingly, a meeting was held at the Faculty of Economics of the University of Banja Luka on 9 June 2026, during which participants explored opportunities to strengthen academic ties, develop student and staff exchange programs, and enhance scientific and professional cooperation. The discussions were attended by Prof. Tajana Serdar Raković, PhD, Academic Coordinator for International Cooperation, Prof. Bojan Baškot, PhD, and Assist. Prof. Svetlana Sabljić, PhD.

The Russian delegation's visit continued at the Academy of Arts of the University of Banja Luka, where Prof. Marina Aleksandrovna Ponomareva, PhD, and Prof. Konstantin Ivanovich Odegov, PhD, visited on 11 June. On that occasion, they met with Prof. Kristina Pantelić Babić, PhD, Vice-Rector for International and Inter-University Cooperation, and David Mastikosa, PhD in Arts, Vice-Dean for Arts and International Cooperation.

The discussions focused on cultural management, music arts, and opportunities for launching joint projects that would further strengthen academic and cultural ties between the partner institutions.

Particular attention was drawn to Prof. Ponomareva herself, who, in addition to a successful academic career in the fields of management and entrepreneurship, has also built an impressive artistic career. As a soprano, she has received numerous awards and recognitions at international and national music competitions.

The visit of the delegation from the Financial University in Moscow confirmed the mutual commitment to deepening cooperation and represents an important step toward new joint academic, scientific, and cultural initiatives.