The third Sino-Russian School for Arctic Studies has commenced at Petrozavodsk State University, focusing on the anthropogenic impact on Arctic ecosystems and innovative approaches to Arctic governance. The event takes place from April 3 to 5.

According to the Arctic Center of the university, the conference project was formulated by Saint Petersburg University in 2010, with the first Sino-Russian school taking place in 2019.

Valery Shlyamin, the head of the Institute for Northern European and Arctic Studies at Petrozavodsk State University, delivered a lecture on the prospects of Sino-Russian economic cooperation, particularly with Karelia, highlighting China as a significant partner for both Russia and Karelia.

"Even during the COVID-19 pandemic and times of various restrictions, we have achieved a trade turnover of $240 billion between Russia and China. And the turnover is growing. Moreover, our trade is close to balance, both in terms of exports and imports," noted Valery Shlyamin.

Vladimir Semyonov, a distinguished energy expert from the Republic of Karelia, discussed the prospects of cooperation between the two countries in the field of green energy.

A special guest of the school, Professor Guo Peiqing from Ocean University of China, also addressed the topic of green energy. He emphasized the interest of the People's Republic of China in cooperating with Arctic countries, primarily focusing on logistics and trade opportunities.

"I believe that Russia can play, if not a decisive, then a very important role in the development of shipping in the Arctic. Secondly, it's about resources, including energy. Both countries are already successfully collaborating in this sphere," emphasized the expert.

During the Sino-Russian School for Arctic Studies, participants will discuss the development of cultural, scientific ties, and tourism between the two countries, as stated by the Arctic Center of Petrozavodsk State University.