International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) President Ariel Guarco has praised the growing role of young cooperative leaders during his visit to Russia, describing them as “the present, not the future” of the global cooperative movement.
In a social media post, Guarco highlighted his interaction with members of the ICA Youth Committee, led by Harsh Mukeshbhai Sanghani. He said the discussions with young cooperative leaders from more than 30 countries reflected their vision, ideas and commitment to strengthening the global cooperative movement.
Guarco was participating in an international forum organised by Centrosoyuz, Russia’s historic union of consumer cooperatives. He thanked Centrosoyuz CEO Dmitri Zubov for inviting him to the event, noting that the organisation has remained innovative and relevant across three centuries.
During the visit, Guarco was also conferred the Doctor Honoris Causa degree by the Russian University of Cooperation in recognition of his contribution to the international cooperative movement. Expressing gratitude for the honour, he thanked the university’s Rector, Alsu Nabieva, and described the institution as an exemplary centre that has trained millions of young people in cooperative values and principles.
Guarco said the visit reinforced the importance of youth leadership, international cooperation and cooperative education in advancing the global cooperative movement.
