‘Arctic and Antarctic Days in Moscow’ Forum Addresses Arctic Climate and Science Issues

Participants in the ‘Arctic and Antarctic Days in Moscow’ International Forum, which took place on 10–11 November, discussed such issues as international cooperation on the climate agenda of the Far North, the consolidation of the scientific community as part of research programmes, and Arctic transport infrastructure.

“Our country continuously prioritizes the issues of the harmonious and comprehensive development of the Arctic territories and building up our scientific presence in Antarctica. We seek to strengthen international cooperation in these regions of the planet and implement joint programmes in various fields. I am happy to note that a new, bright page has been opened in the development of the Arctic this year. In September, the North Pole – 41 scientific expedition was launched on a self-propelled ice platform. This high-tech project can conduct year-round observations of the natural environment in the region and reliably ensure all the conditions for the challenging and heroic work of polar explorers. There is still a lot to do to create a state-run permafrost monitoring system, which is crucial for reducing climate and environmental risks, the sustainable development of our northern cities and towns, and the successful implementation of major industrial and infrastructure projects,” Russian President Vladimir Putin said in his address to the forum participants.

Chair of the Senior Arctic Officials and Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Cooperation of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nikolay Korchunov noted that it is parament for the Russian economy to preserve the Arctic as a zone of peace, stability, and cooperation because it is home to more than 20% of exports and 11% of GDP.

“We see how scientific and educational centres, the North Pole self-propelled platform, and monitoring networks are being established. These are essentially breakthrough actions that secure the Russian Federation’s leadership of and firm grasp on the operational initiative in high latitudes. The key to an effective policy in the Arctic is above all cooperation and interaction, rather than confrontation. I would like this time to come as soon as possible,” Korchunov said at the Forum’s plenary session.

The Forum was attended by heads of key ministries and agencies, representatives of the regions of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation and legislative bodies, as well as employees of scientific organizations. The ‘Arctic and Antarctic Days in Moscow’ Forum also included the Arctic Festival of Non-Fiction Films and the opening of the photo exhibition ‘Transport Infrastructure of the Arctic’ on Arbat Street in Moscow.

The ‘Arctic and Antarctic Days in Moscow’ International Forum was held with the support of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation, the Moscow Mayor’s Office and Government, the Federal Agency for the Commonwealth of Independent States Affairs, Compatriots Living Abroad, and International Humanitarian Cooperation (Rossotrudnichestvo), NOVATEK, and MMC Norilsk Nickel.

Russia is chairing the Arctic Council in 2021–2023. A cross-cutting priority of Russia’s chairmanship is to ensure responsible governance for the sustainable development of the Arctic. In addition, one of Russia’s goals for this period is to improve the efficiency of scientific activities and the practical applicability of its results in the Arctic. Russia seeks to optimize the use of scientific infrastructure and promote the use of new technologies and best practices in joint projects with other countries. Based on its respect for international law, Russia intends to promote collective approaches to the development of the Arctic with a social, economic, and environmental balance. The Roscongress Foundation organizes the events of Russia’s chairmanship of the Arctic Council.