Valentina Matvienko: "St. Petersburg International Economic Forum has become a reputable international venue"

IPA CIS Council Chairperson Speaker of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Valentina Matvienko the took part in the XX St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

According to Valentina Matvienko, since 1997 when the first Forum took place, it has grown into a reputable international venue.

"Business is always pragmatic. It always moves towards its interests and profit. This is what we are witnessing today. St. Petersburg International Economic Forum is important for the dialogue with global business. Businessmen influence political courses of their countries. I believe this influence will become even stronger for the good of cooperation".

The IPA CIS Council Chairperson emphasized the importance of Eurasian cooperation. "We should launch integrative unions for new forms of cooperation. This is a prerequisite for equitable development of the global economy".

Valentina Matvienko also drew attention to the fact that about 40 countries showed their interest in cooperation with EEU and in promoting free trade zones.