St. Petersburg International Economic Forum to Feature Iranian Lounge
Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation Anton Kobyakov met in Moscow with the delegation of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Russian Federation, headed by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Iran to Russia Kazem Jalali.
Participants discussed various areas of cooperation between the two countries, including cooperation on trade, joint mining projects, the construction of nuclear power plants (the Bushehr NPP), the creation of logistical infrastructure (the Rasht-Astara railway project), and a Russia–Iran–Oman-Turkmenistan gas hub.
Special consideration was given to the participation of an Iranian delegation at the Roscongress Foundation’s most important event – the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which will take place from 5 to 8 June. The discussion touched on the Iranian Lounge at SPIEF that would serve as a meeting place for Russian and Iranian business and authorities and showcase Iran’s rich history and culture. Possible formats being considered include the participation of Iranian business delegations in the Day of International Cooperation on 5 June, a Russia–Iran business dialogue with officials and business representatives from the two countries, and the inclusion of Iranian speakers in the Forum business programme and B2B meetings.
Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation Anton Kobyakov emphasized the countries’ support for each other in matters of international cooperation. “Relations between Russia and Iran are expanding in a number of ways: in healthcare, science, engineering, future technologies, space, and humanitarian ties. Interest in tourism between Russia and Iran is growing. I have no doubt that the Iranian Lounge at this year’s St. Petersburg International Economic Forum will be a hit with guests and participants and the dynamic cooperation between the two countries will drive productive dialogue at the business events held in Russia this year,” he said.
SPIEF is not the only important business event scheduled to take place in Russia this year. A rich calendar of events contributing to Russian-Iranian dialogue includes the Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum International Economic Forum, scheduled for 14–19 May in Kazan, an event always welcoming a large Iranian delegation to discuss every aspect of cooperation between the two nations. In 2023, KazanForum hosted a special conference between Russia and Iran.
The Caucasus Investment Forum (CIF 2024) will also be taking place from 28 to 30 May for the first time in its present format. The CIF is a special opportunity to present investment projects and the unique possibilities of the North Caucasus Federal District. Last year’s event brought together approximately 3,000 representatives of the authorities, industry, business, the expert community, and the media from the CIS and the Caspian Five, with a delegation from Iran taking an active part in the work of the business platform.
“Business events in Russia are of special interest to Iran. Representatives of the business community and officials in our country are always looking to see what is happening at Russian exhibitions. And the interest is mutual: we look forward to welcoming a delegation from Russia to the biggest event in Iran – TehranExpo. Participation in the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum will give a new impetus to the development of bilateral relations between our countries,” Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Iran to Russia Kazem Jalali said.
The parties agreed to continue the exhibition dialogue at business events in Russia and Iran in 2024.
