The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum has commenced in Russia, hosting over 20,000 participants from 140 countries. The event is set to continue until Saturday and will feature a highly anticipated speech by Russian President Vladimir Putin. His address is expected to cover global political and economic conditions, an evaluation of Russia’s economy, and the prospects of its relations with key foreign partners.
The forum, held under the theme “Shared Values as a Foundation for Growth in a Multipolar World,” includes prominent attendees such as Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang. Ministers of economy from Qatar, Algeria, the UAE, Turkey, India, and other nations are also participating.
Anton Kobyakov, advisor to the Russian president and executive secretary of the forum’s organizing committee, highlighted that the global economy faces significant challenges, including the need for digital acceleration and climate change mitigation. The forum aims not only to discuss these issues but also to develop practical solutions to help the global economy adapt to new conditions.
The event will host 19 trade dialogues on international cooperation with countries like China, Turkey, Latin America, and EU member states. Key discussion areas include the global economy, Russia’s economy, human development, and sustainable living environments.
Economic expert Andrey Zaitsev noted that the forum has become a leading global platform for agreements and discussions on major economic issues. Last year, 1,073 agreements were signed with international partners, exceeding $12 billion in value. This year, the focus is on practical implementation, including import substitution and forming sustainable logistics and financial chains with countries in the Global South and East.
Vladimir Oliychenko, an expert from the Higher School of Economics, emphasized the forum’s importance for Russia amid sanctions, serving as a platform for trade, investment, and showcasing Russia’s economic growth and global standing.
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