The message reads, in part:
"This meeting, which brings together experts, business leaders, scientists and politicians from many countries, will be an important event in the economic life of Russia's north-west, the Arctic zone. The region's harsh weather conditions demand a unique and innovative development strategy and a complex solution to social and ecological problems. We have a number of top priorities, namely, investment in transport, telecommunications and energy infrastructure, the effective development of natural resources, and mutually beneficial international cooperation.
"I am confident that the forum will provide a good opportunity for a constructive discussion and its recommendations will find practical application."