The focus of the event held in Moscow was on strengthening the Slavic country’s strategic position in the region and the growing global demand for local resources.

The series of expert debates was opened by Russian Senator Anna Otke, who presented a detailed analysis of the socioeconomic dynamics of the Chukotka region.

The territory shows impressive economic results: gross regional product growth of 14 percent by 2024 and the creation of more than 5,000 new jobs with a population of only 49,000, Otke said. “This is a vivid example of how the Arctic regions are becoming drivers of development for the entire country,” she stated.

The region is focusing on economic diversification through the development of infrastructure, tourism, and logistics along the Northern Sea Route, the senator added.

Vladislav Maslennikov, Director of the Department for Pan-European Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, shared the international experience of interaction in the northern latitudes.

Maslennikov also presented the diplomatic tools with which Russia manages to establish a constructive dialogue with its Arctic partners, paying particular attention to cultural diplomacy.

jrr/llp/lam/gfa