Above: St Nicholas Abbey in Barbados (Photo: BT)

By the Caribbean Journal staff

Russian Ambassador to Barbados Nikolay Smirnov met recently with Barbados Culture Minister Stephen Lashley to discuss potential linkages between the two countries.

The talks focused on several areas of interest, including the Winter Olympics in 2014, and cultural issues.

Lashley said Barbados was struggling with the issue of historic building preservation.

“We are looking to restore a number of buildings, but funds are limited,” Lashley said. “Therefore, any technical and financial assistance in preservation would be welcomed.”

The two sides also spoke about the issue of youth development. Lashley’s portfolio includes Family, Culture, Sports and Youth.

In a courtesy call with Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Steve Blackett, Smirnov urged Barbados to pursue Russian tourists.

Smirnov is also the non-resident Ambassador to Trinidad, Grenada, Guyana and St Vincent.