An Arctic forum to sum up the Arctic discussion
On December 5 through 7, 2016, St. Petersburg will host the 6th International Forum "The Arctic: Present and Future" sponsored by the Association of Polar Explorers interregional public organization.
"The Arctic today is a strategically important vector of Russia's development. This major region will help Russia to speed up its economic growth and improve living standards. The main aim of state policy in this sphere is to create a favorable environment for people's life and work in the Arctic," said Artur Chilingarov, chairman of the forum's organizing committee, President of the Association of Polar Explorers, State Duma Deputy and Special Presidential Representative for International Cooperation in the Arctic and the Antarctic.
Every year, the forum sums up the public discussion on the Arctic theme and shapes the agenda for cooperation in exploring the Russian Arctic between the authorities and the public. The forum's schedule is oriented to priorities in the Strategy on the Development of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation.
Participants in over 30 sessions and roundtables will discuss the need to improve the Arctic legislation and promote interaction between regions, agencies and economic sectors. The forum will also focus on Arctic regions' plans to develop index zones, state support mechanisms, and practical aspects of activities in the Arctic.
The forum participants will adopt a final resolution that will include public proposals and initiatives on developing the Russian Arctic zone, which are sent annually to the government authorities.
The forum is expected to be attended by 1,200 representatives of the related federal ministries and agencies, the Russian Parliament, regional authorities, Russian and foreign commercial companies and research institutions, and media. An exhibition dedicated to Arctic projects and Arctic development technologies will be held as part of the forum.
The forum's official partner is the First Arctic Consortium, which comprises Oboronlogistika, Sovfrakht and Fesco Group. Its partners are Gazprom Neft, Norilsk Nickel, Fertoing, and Onego Shipping.
Rossiya Segodnya International Information Agency is the general information partner and The Arctic information resource is the forum's official information partner.