June 29, 2026

Plov Diplomacy


Plov Diplomacy
Russian and Uzbek researchers hope to see growing use of local culinary traditions for diplomatic purposes. Russian Life files

A recent Russian-Uzbek publication advocates for using food not only to promote cultural heritage, but also to enhance diplomatic relations between Russia and Uzbekistan. The authors, Leonid Gelibterman and Iroda Dadajanova, see sharing traditional cuisine as a way to win minds through the stomach, softening political tensions. 

The researchers note that Uzbek cooking is becoming popular outside the country, with Uzbek restaurants and dishes well integrated into Russian diets. One such delicacy is plov (pilaf), the national dish of Uzbekistan, a hearty rice dish seasoned with spices and topped with meat. With a recognizable lineup of popular dishes, the article envisions a national gastronomic brand, with general interest forming outside of Uzbekistan. This appeal, the authors hope, can facilitate the charming goal of cross-cultural understanding.

Leonid Gelibterman has different plans for his plov. As the director of the Center for Gastrodiplomacy at the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (RANEPA), Gelibterman wants to season the Academy’s curriculum with educational programs on gastrodiplomacy.

The paper also discusses a strategy for preserving culinary heritage and calls for joint action. Both Russia and Uzbekistan should be united in creating programs to slow the spread of globalized eating habits.

While much of the article focuses on how Uzbek cuisine can serve as an ambassador for the country, it raises the reciprocal question of expanding the influence of Russian food. As a tool of soft power, Russia could place its hopes in gastrodiplomacy to open doors where brute force has failed.

You Might Also Like

Beefing About Rations
  • June 17, 2026

Beefing About Rations

A fraudulent operation sent 170 tons of barely edible rations to Russian soldiers.
A Piroshky Pilgrimage
  • May 30, 2026

A Piroshky Pilgrimage

Forget the first Starbucks. Pike Place Market has another attraction that's a  must-see for Russophiles.
Racial Attack Goes Viral
  • September 02, 2025

Racial Attack Goes Viral

An Uzbek taxi driver suffered a racist attack near Moscow. Uzbekistan's Foreign Ministry responded.
Like this post? Get a weekly email digest + member-only deals

Some of our Books

Woe From Wit (bilingual)
June 20, 2017

Woe From Wit (bilingual)

One of the most famous works of Russian literature, the four-act comedy in verse Woe from Wit skewers staid, nineteenth century Russian society, and it positively teems with “winged phrases” that are essential colloquialisms for students of Russian and Russian culture.

Russian Rules
November 16, 2011

Russian Rules

From the shores of the White Sea to Moscow and the Northern Caucasus, Russian Rules is a high-speed thriller based on actual events, terrifying possibilities, and some really stupid decisions.

Driving Down Russia's Spine
June 01, 2016

Driving Down Russia's Spine

The story of the epic Spine of Russia trip, intertwining fascinating subject profiles with digressions into historical and cultural themes relevant to understanding modern Russia. 

Life Stories
September 01, 2009

Life Stories

The Life Stories collection is a nice introduction to contemporary Russian fiction: many of the 19 authors featured here have won major Russian literary prizes and/or become bestsellers. These are life-affirming stories of love, family, hope, rebirth, mystery and imagination, masterfully translated by some of the best Russian-English translators working today. The selections reassert the power of Russian literature to affect readers of all cultures in profound and lasting ways. Best of all, 100% of the profits from the sale of this book are going to benefit Russian hospice—not-for-profit care for fellow human beings who are nearing the end of their own life stories.

The Little Humpbacked Horse
November 03, 2014

The Little Humpbacked Horse

A beloved Russian classic about a resourceful Russian peasant, Vanya, and his miracle-working horse, who together undergo various trials, exploits and adventures at the whim of a laughable tsar, told in rich, narrative poetry.

Fish
February 01, 2010

Fish

This mesmerizing novel from one of Russia’s most important modern authors traces the life journey of a selfless Russian everywoman. In the wake of the Soviet breakup, inexorable forces drag Vera across the breadth of the Russian empire. Facing a relentless onslaught of human and social trials, she swims against the current of life, countering adversity and pain with compassion and hope, in many ways personifying Mother Russia’s torment and resilience amid the Soviet disintegration.

The Moscow Eccentric
December 01, 2016

The Moscow Eccentric

Advance reviewers are calling this new translation "a coup" and "a remarkable achievement." This rediscovered gem of a novel by one of Russia's finest writers explores some of the thorniest issues of the early twentieth century.

The Pet Hawk of the House of Abbas
October 01, 2013

The Pet Hawk of the House of Abbas

This exciting new trilogy by a Russian author – who has been compared to Orhan Pamuk and Umberto Eco – vividly recreates a lost world, yet its passions and characters are entirely relevant to the present day. Full of mystery, memorable characters, and non-stop adventure, The Pet Hawk of the House of Abbas is a must read for lovers of historical fiction and international thrillers.

 

About Us

Russian Life is the 31-year-old publication of an award-winning publishing house that also creates books, and other products for Russophiles the world over.

Latest Posts

Our Contacts

Russian Life
73 Main Street, Suite 402
Montpelier VT 05602

802-223-4955