What is the St Petersburg forum, Putin’s economic outreach to the world?
The St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) is set to welcome around 20,000 guests from over 130 countries amid ongoing tensions from the war in Ukraine. Despite a recent Ukrainian drone strike near the city, the forum will proceed as planned, showcasing Russia's efforts to maintain international partnerships. This year's event marks the first participation of an official US delegation since the Ukraine conflict began, highlighting the forum's evolving role in global diplomacy.
- ▪The SPIEF is often referred to as the 'Russian Davos' and has been held annually since 1997.
- ▪This year's forum occurs against the backdrop of Russia's isolation from the West due to the Ukraine war.
- ▪Notable attendees include representatives from Uzbekistan, Tanzania, and China, as well as a US delegation for the first time since the conflict began.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
EXPLAINERNews|Business and EconomyWhat is the St Petersburg forum, Putin’s economic outreach to the world?A Ukrainian drone strike targeted energy facilities near St Petersburg hours before the forum began.ListenListen (5 mins)SaveClick here to share on social mediashare-nodesSharefacebookxwhatsapp-strokecopylinkgoogleAdd Al Jazeera on GoogleinfoRussian President Vladimir Putin speaks during a session of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) in Saint Petersburg, Russia, June 16, 2023 [Ramil Sitdikov/Host photo agency RIA Novosti via Reuters]By Caolán MageePublished On 3 Jun 20263 Jun 2026Some 20,000 guests from more than 130 countries are expected to attend the three-day St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), an annual gathering often described as the…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Al Jazeera English.