On 6 January, Ms. Alina Dashibalova, an official from the Republic of Buryatia, the current chair government of NEAR, was appointed as the new Russian Liaison Officer to the NEAR Secretariat. She officially commenced her duties after receiving her letter of appointment from Secretary General Lim Byung-Jin.
Ms. Dashibalova holds a Master’s degree in Oriental and African Studies from Buryat State University and previously served as a specialist in the Human Resources Department of the People’s Khural (Parliament) of the Republic of Buryatia for three years. At the NEAR Secretariat’s International Cooperation Department, she will be responsible for communication and coordination with Russian member governments and will serve as the liaison with the Republic of Buryatia.
In addition, with her strong proficiency in English, she will undertake a range of international responsibilities beyond coordination with Russian member governments. She has also demonstrated a keen interest in learning Korean, and high expectations are placed on her successful contributions to the work of the NEAR Secretariat.
Ms. Alina Chepchugova, who served as Russian Liaison Officer beginning on 5 September 2024, concluded her term on 2 September. Secretary General Lim Byung-Jin presented her with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of her dedication and valuable contributions to the development of the NEAR Secretariat over the past year.