Opinion

Richard Royal, Chairman of the Westminster Russia Forum, reports on an event with Sir Jeremy Greenstock, Chairman of UNA-UK.

The role of Russia in the United Nations has been a pertinent topic throughout the organisation’s 68 year existence, where both the Soviet Union and subsequently Russia have at times had a turbulent relationship, but is particularly relevant of late with issues such as Iran, North Korea and Syria dominating headlines and often splitting global opinion. 

If you are looking for the place to have a great dinner, fine wine and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, pop in to Shepherd’s Bar & Bistro, which is perfectly located in Westminster, minutes from Parliament.

After the refurbishment, the place known as Shepherd’s restaurant and has been reborn as the Shepherd’s Bar & Bistro reflecting the best dinning traditions of the Langan’s Restaurant Group empire.

Situated in Marsham Street, the new look restaurant, designed by Russell Sage Studio is spread across a civilized and conversation-enhancing area of 5,000 sq. ft.

Yet it is open Monday – Friday from 11am until midnight, but soon will be opening 7 days a week.

Nostalgia is often perceived as a negative word. Yet it is prone to revive memories and stir emotions.

I left London in June 2011, my head and heart was full of bitterness, and it is only now that I understand that it was because I was so exhausted. I was tired of the system, of the people, and of studying hard at University. Following the world's favourite idiom; 'the grass is always greener on the other side' I went back to Moscow. A year and a half later, I’d still rather be anywhere other than the UK, yet I get waves of nostalgia from my time in London.

One day this January, I took an Aeroflot flight to St Petersburg, travelled by water through western Russia and arrived in Moscow. I explored the city and deciding that once wasn’t enough, returning to rediscover the city a second time. I didn’t need a passport; I avoided the complicated and probing visa application process, yet made it across the Russian border without any hassle.

“Anonymous” sent me this sheet (so I am afraid I cannot acknowledge it personally, but if you read this: “Thanks!”).  It has several amusing mistakes and opportunities for mystification.

I particularly liked (as did Anonymous), the idea that the size of a three dimensional object can be described by a single figure. Cases must not exceed “115 cms”. At one point this is rendered “115 cms (55x40x20)”. But nothing is said about luggage that is, for example, 95x10x10, as a pairs of skis might be. Likewise a painting might be 5x70x 40. Are they allowed? I think we should be told!