Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –
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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News
St. Petersburg, December 9 (Xinhua) — The 15th International Forum "The Arctic: Present and Future" opened in St. Petersburg on Tuesday. Participants called for accelerating the development of the Arctic while simultaneously preserving its unique natural environment.
Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a greeting to the participants. He noted that the forum brings together representatives of government agencies, academics, experts, business circles, and the media, all of whom strive to contribute to the development of the Arctic region and the preservation of its unique natural environment and cultural heritage.
During the plenary session, Arkhangelsk Region Governor Alexander Tsybulsky noted that the Arctic is currently a vast expanse with an extremely low population density and a highly uneven economic, social, transport, and public infrastructure.
"Active urbanization processes are leading to a gradual loss of population, resulting in increased uneven development across the territory," emphasized A. Tsybulsky, adding that the system of support settlements as a mechanism for addressing these issues requires further development, taking into account the realities of the Arctic zone.
Igor Barinov, head of the Federal Agency for Nationalities Affairs, stated that regional development and large-scale projects should be carried out with minimal risks to the environment and the traditional way of life of indigenous peoples.
During the two-day event, more than 2,000 government officials, representatives of business, scientific, educational, and non-profit organizations will present their proposals for a sustainable future for the Arctic. More than 400 speakers from Russian regions and internationally will deliver presentations at the forum. The program includes 40 sessions in eight areas, covering the entire spectrum of the Arctic agenda.
Earlier, Anton Basansky, Deputy Minister of the Russian Federation for the Development of the Far East and Arctic, reported that 1,060 new investment projects are currently being implemented in the Russian Arctic zone using state support mechanisms. 2.6 trillion rubles (over $33.6 billion) have been attracted, of which 850 billion rubles (over $10.9 billion) have already been invested.
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