🌐 Today, as a part of our #MGIMOAlumni series, we highlight a special graduate — Anatoly Torkunov, Rector of MGIMO University, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary. On his birthday, we look back at the professional journey of a man whose career has been inseparably linked with MGIMO — from his days as a student to leading the University. In 1972, Anatoly Torkunov graduated from MGIMO’s School of International Relations. It was here that he met Sergey Lavrov, who would later become Russia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. Their meeting marked the beginning of a friendship that has lasted for decades. After graduation, he made a choice that would shape his life for years to come: he devoted himself to teaching and academic research, eventually holding a doctoral degree in Political Science. From 1983 to 1986, Anatoly Torkunov was in the diplomatic service in the United States. Upon his return, he became Dean of his alma mater’s School of International Relations, later serving as the first Vice-Rector. In 1992, he was elected Rector of MGIMO University. 🔎 Yet his work extends far beyond the University. Anatoly Torkunov serves on the Board of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, heads the Russian International Studies Association and the United Nations Association of Russia, and serves on academic and advisory councils under government bodies. 📚 He is editor-in-chief of the journal “MGIMO Review of International Relations”, the author of more than 200 academic publications, and one of Russia’s leading experts in international relations. 🏠 Speaking about the University, Anatoly Torkunov emphasizes: “MGIMO is a university that provides a comprehensive education — and, most importantly, an education that enables you to adapt, no matter how rapidly the world around you changes”. Dear Anatoly Vasilyevich, please accept our warmest congratulations on your birthday! We wish you good health, well-being, inspiration, and continued professional success for the benefit of your alma mater! Learn more about MGIMO on our website. MGIMO International (ENG) | МГИМО для иностранцев (RUS)