Aleksandr Panov (diplomat)

Aleksandr Nikolayevich Panov (born September 26, 1944, Moscow, Soviet Union – died January 18, 2024, Moscow, Russia) was a Russian diplomat and politician. He served as Russia's ambassador to several countries, including South Korea (1992-1996), Norway (1999-2005) and Japan (2006-2010).

Panov graduated from the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO). He began his diplomatic career in the Soviet Ministry of Foreign Affairs, holding various positions dealing primarily with Asian affairs.

During his tenure as ambassador to South Korea, Panov played a significant role in strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between Russia and South Korea following the collapse of the Soviet Union. His ambassadorship to Norway coincided with increased cooperation in the Barents Sea region, particularly regarding environmental issues and resource management. In Japan, he focused on promoting trade, investment, and cultural exchange.

After retiring from diplomatic service in 2010, Panov remained active in public life, lecturing on international relations and contributing to scholarly publications. He was known for his expertise in Asian affairs and his contributions to Russian foreign policy. He held the diplomatic rank of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary.