Russia's two-year chairmanship in the Barents/Euro-Arctic Council (BEAC) will focus on expanding the regional transport potential, new business opportunities and environmental protection, Vladimir Titov, first deputy foreign minister, said at the 15^th ministerial meeting of the council in Oulu, Finland.

Russia took over the rotating BEAC chairmanship from Finland on Wednesday. The meeting participants adopted a joint communique today. "The joint communique reflects the progress achieved during Finland's chairmanship," said Titov.

Transport infrastructure remains an important area of Arctic development and this is what Finland focused on, he said. "Hopefully, new transport corridors in northern Europe and more active use of northern sea routes will improve business opportunities in the region. We see this task as our priority during our chairmanship," Titov said.

He also said that climate change and protection of the vulnerable Arctic nature would be among Russia's priorities. "We appreciate Finland's efforts regarding climate change and environmental protection. Russia will continue this work, with a focus on the most acute environmental issues and a plan of action to sustain climate change," Titov said.

"We will also continue cooperation in culture and tourism, as these areas promote  the development of contacts between people," he said.

The diplomat also said it would be useful to resume coordination meetings between agencies operating in the region to facilitate interaction.

BEAC was established at a meeting of foreign ministers of Russia, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Finland, Sweden and also a European Commissioner in Kirkenes on January 11, 1993.