Russian president Vladimir Putin has commended the work of students, employees and faculty at the Ivan Gubkin Russian State Oil and Gas University as the institution celebrates the 80th anniversary of its founding.

Speaking at a commemorative event at the university on Friday (April 16th), Mr Putin said that the pace of development has never eased during its long and illustrious history.

"The practical, innovative approach of the university and the ultramodern technologies that are actively used in teaching enable you to confidently look into the future, actively conduct scientific research and participate in promising projects," he told students at the event.

Meanwhile, Vietnam's president Nguyen Minh Triet has also recognised the Gubkin University's commitment to training foreign workers with the issue of the Labour Order, third class.

In a partnership which stretches back to 1958, the university has helped to train 350 Vietnamese workers for employment in the oil and gas industry.

Getenergy for Russia & CIS, 19th – 20th May 2010 - Moscow