A distinctive feature of the present stage of development of human society is a close link between cultural and political processes; the policy directs sociocultural activities, and culture influences the political process through the formation of human values in society.
Civilized countries have made an effort to promote “soft” power (cultural diplomacy) to strengthen geopolitical position, foreign policy and to solve economic problems. The following organizations are involved in cultural diplomacy: Alliance Française (France), the British Council (UK), Goethe Institute (Germany), Instituto Cervantes (Spain), Rossotrudnichestvo (Russian).
Problems in international relations affect business relations and the economy; at the same time the development of inter-religious cooperation and interaction in cultural and humanitarian spheres continues. In this regard, humanitarian activities contribute to overcoming cultural and religious barriers, negative stereotypes and other obstacles to the development of international cooperation.
The Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation allocated more than 9 milliard rubles for cultural events in 2015: international events held on the territory of Russia — 122 103.2 thousand rub. (1.3 %), and events abroad — 209 096.8 thousand rub. (2.3 %). In addition to projects funded by the state there are numerous projects which exist on the money of sponsors, patrons and stakeholders.
In different periods of history the church was engaged in solving many issues, and the task — to meet the spiritual needs of the faithful — is one of the most significant. Most of the temples and churches in Europe are not only places for conducting worship and religious rites, but venues for live performances and highlights attracting tourists from around the world.

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