Open Russia: Investment Opportunities in the Central Federal District

Brussels, Belgium European Parliament National Bank of Belgium    November 19-20, 2002

Programme List of the Participants

From Dr. Romano Prodi's address to the "Open Russia" ”We had a valuable exchange of views on these subjects with President Putin just a few days ago at the EU-Russia Summit, and on that occasion I underlined the significance and importance of our relations as well as the strength and continuity of our dialogue. Russia is a strategic partner for the EU and we are anxious to step up relations still further. We want to give real substance to the idea of a Common Economic Space. I believe that the potential of our relations is not yet fully exploited. There is scope for increasing our trade and boosting our direct investment. We have to continue working towards regulatory convergence. Russia's real progress towards accession to the WTO is a crucial step in this direction. Equally important is our energy dialogue, which has created an essential framework for achieving our common agenda, whether it be the design of new pipelines or increasing energy stocks. It is evident that these goals cannot be reached merely through dialogue between Brussels and Moscow. The regional dimension is a crucial element of this project. That is why I am convinced that this Forum will be extremely useful in promoting a better understanding of possible areas of cooperation. I am also sure that it will provide an opportunity for businessmen and regional administrators to compare experiences and lessons learned”.