St. Petersburg Governor Vladimir Yakolev to Speak at Forum "Innovational Town Policy" in Canada

The official visit of Governor of St. Petersburg Vladimir Yakolev to Canada began on June 23 and will continue until June 28. The purpose of his visit is to sign a protocol on collaboration between the administrations of St. Petersburg and Quebec, and to participate in the eighth Montreal conference.

As announced by the press-service of the Governor of St. Petersburg, Yakolev will, during the conference on June 27, speak at the forum entitled "Innovational Town Policy". During his visit, the Governor will meet Prime Minister of Quebec Bernard Landri, as well as representatives of the Trade and Industry Hall, the Society for the Economic Development of Quebec, and the Canada-Russia Association. Yakolev will also visit the National Academy and the Laval University.

In 2001, the trade turnover between St. Petersburg and Canada increased by 30%, reaching USD 42 million (compared to USD 32.4 million in 2000). Canadian import in 2001 grew by 25%, reaching USD 37.2 million (taking 21st place among all importers of St. Petersburg.) Export decreased a little, to USD 4.7 million (taking 39th place). The main items of Canadian import into St. Petersburg are tobacco products, comprising 54% (compared to the 2000 figure of 82%). Export to Canada comprises 0.18%, a negligible part of the total volume of the town's export.