Putin to host array of Asian leaders as Eastern Economic Forum begins in Vladivostok

The Eastern Economic Forum begins today in Vladivostok, Russia with President Putin hosting India Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga. Ministerial delegations of countries including China, Indonesia and South Korea will also be present.

Russian infrastructure development will be a discussion topic priority, as will country-specific business dialogues with entrepreneurs and banks from attending countries, among other stakeholders arriving from Europe and Asia.

With a focus on mutual cooperation, regional business development will likely be discussed, as well as the formation of Advanced Special Economic Zones. Over 70 business events are set to take place, with social, industrial, educational and sporting infrastructure set to be expanded throughout Eurasia.

Expect a further cozying up of the relationship between PM Modi and Putin beyond defence and nuclear energy to other areas of economic cooperation, including oil and gas and manpower exports.

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