Integrate to grow, innovate to prosper

As the chair of APEC this year, Russia vows to foster cooperation in trade liberalization, food security, logistics, energy and innovation

Russia has taken over the rotating chair of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in 2012 and will host this year's APEC Leaders' Week in Vladivostok. For Russia this honor comes with a great sense of responsibility. Just as Russia is an integral part of the vast and forward-reaching Asia-Pacific region, which is crucial for the socio-economic development of Russia, especially Siberia and the Far East. Therefore, one of the country's top priorities is to promote trade and investment cooperation with Asia-Pacific countries and to actively participate in regional integration.

We have many proposals for our Asia-Pacific partners that seek to address problems in spheres of energy, transportation, research and technology, and environmental protection; to promote dialogue among civilizations and ensure military-political stability in the region; and to boost cooperation in emergency response and in the fight against international terrorism.