Features of the Russian-Egyptian cross-cultural communication: business and management dimensions

Abstract

The article considers the importance of cross-cultural competence for the Russian-Egyptian economic and business interaction. A historical overview of bilateral relations is made with an emphasis on trade. However, in today’s globalized world communication between representatives of such two different cultures as Russia and Egypt can no longer rely upon traditional approaches. The choice in favour of the Russian-Egyptian interaction is determined by the following factors: 1) both countries are regional leaders - Russia is a locomotive of Eurasia and the leader of various political and economic processes at the post-Soviet space, while Egypt is both “heart and mind” of the Arab world, being a traditional architect of development in the Middle East and North Africa; 2) Russia traditionally has geopolitical interests in this part of the world, while Egypt has strong intention to diversify its international liaisons by including the Russian Federation into the circle of its strategic partners; 3) Russian-Egyptian relations enjoy a long and profound history; 4) Russian-Egyptian cooperation is currently being realized on a wide scale and includes political, military, economic, cultural, scientific, educational, social even religious spheres. Psychological challenges of the Russian-Egyptian business interaction are illustrated on both empirical and theoretical material: the first is shown by the examples from the work of the RussianEgyptian Business Council. The second level is represented by the two theoretical concepts: 1. of M-time and P-time cultures elaborated by the prominent American anthropologist Edward Hall; 2. Long-Term Orientation dimension suggested by famous Dutch researcher Geert Hofstede.