First held in 1997, SPIEF has become one of Russia’s most important international economic forums.

The 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) opened on Wednesday, gathering delegates from over 100 countries and regions.

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The forum, themed “Shared Values: The Foundation of Growth in a Multipolar World,” features more than 150 events, including panel discussions, roundtables, business breakfasts and televised debates.

They will center on such topics as technology and digital transformation, demographics, education, healthcare and social security systems.

SPIEF’s central event will be a plenary session on Friday, where Russian President Vladimir Putin will deliver a keynote address.

In a greeting message to participants, Putin said that Russia consistently upholds the principles of independent development and respect for the cultural and civilizational identities of nations and peoples. Together with its partners, especially within BRICS, Russia is always committed to building an effective system of equal and mutually beneficial international cooperation, Putin said.

First held in 1997, SPIEF has become one of Russia’s most important international economic forums. Currently, St. Petersburg hosts representatives from 50 countries, including Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang. This year’s forum also includes a delegation from the Taliban, recently removed from Russia’s list of terrorist organizations.

Milorad Dodik, the leader of the Republika Srpska, which includes Bosnia and Herzegovina, will also be present. This year, the special guest country is Bahrain, whose national security adviser, Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, will meet with Putin on Saturday.

teleSUR/ JF

Sources: Xinhua – EFE

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