World Economic Forum To Debate Russian Politics, Economy

Usually based in Davos, Switzerland, the World Economic Forum is shifting to New York City, as leading global business centre, for a session of January 31-February 4 under the motto, "Leadership at a Time of Instability: The Vision of a Common Future". Russian politics and economic developments in a world which is rapidly shifting priorities will be prominent on the agenda. As a crisis flared up, Russia joined the USA and its allies on an anti-terror crusade to provide new conditions for partnership, say preparatory forum materials. The dedication of President Vladimir Putin and the Russian government to economic reforms and closer links with the West lately became ever more evident to make overseas investors more sure of Russia and promote its economic progress, point out the drafts. Prominent Western and Russian political activists and businessmen will gather for a seminar to discuss Russia's prospects to use its new chances. A discussion of improving Russian corporate management will continue on an initiative of last year's Davos forum. The session will debate current problems of the world petroleum market. Managers of leading Russian oil companies will attend, considering Russia's prominent situation in that market. Several tens of countries in all parts of the world will send their heads of state to the forum, alongside international and national nongovernment organisation leaders, financial tycoons, major businessmen, political experts and other scholars. Several hundred journalists will represent the world's leading media outlets to cover the event.