The Language Programs Section (LPS) concluded the Basic Russian Language Course, a 90-hour language program held from 11 May to 19 August 2016, at the Foreign Service Institute (FSI). Ms. Anna Marie Ablan, Honorary Consul to Belarus served as resource person with the assistance of Ms. Viktoryia Bocharova, a Belarusian teacher.

The course was offered to personnel from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and other agencies requiring working knowledge of the Russian language. Participants learned the basics of the language and had a taste of Russian cuisine prepared by Ms. Ablan during a session held at her residence.

Twelve (12) participants, two (2) from the DFA and ten (10) from other agencies, completed the course.