S. KarabellAny understanding of modern Russia really must go back 200 years to Peter the Great. But overseeing vast tracts of land paled in comparison with the sophistication he saw in the West and determined to replicate in Russia. S. Karabell“The Tsar's visit in 1717 is considered to be the foundation of diplomatic relations between France and Russia,” Firmin continues. Indeed, the first treaty of friendship and commerce between France and Russia was signed August 15, 1717 in The Hague. And certainly in all fields - artistic, scientific, technological - Peter was inspired by the France of the Regency.

Source: Forbes November 05, 2017 15:22 UTC