Russia can’t be isolated as long as it has the Far East

Vladivostok is anchoring Moscow’s turn to Asia through ports, industry, transport and trade ties that sanctions can’t stop The Eastern Economic Forum has evolved from a regional investment showcase into one of the key platforms where Russia’s eastward strategy acquires tangible economic substance. Its central idea revolves around the fact that closer relations with Asia require more than diplomacy and trade alone: they need the development of Russia’s own Far East – its ports, industries, transport corridors, cities, and technological base.

The 11th Eastern Economic Forum, held in Vladivostok in early September, centered around the theme of ‘Development for the Benefit of People,’ reflecting the understanding that the region’s future is to be a major center of economic growth, modern industry, and international cooperation, with living standards and human capital the heart of development policy. The Forum’s program included more than 150 events bringing together government officials, business leaders, academics, and experts, including those from abroad. Representatives of more than 80 countries had expressed interest ahead of the event, and the final figures showed over 9,300 participants from 78 states. These included 18 countries whose governments currently pursue policies regarded by Moscow as unfriendly towards Russia. This goes to show that political tension between governments does not eliminate commercial or professional interest in working with Russia. The Forum demonstrated that even amid sanctions, geopolitical rivalry, and the fragmentation of global markets, there remains considerable demand for direct engagement with Russian institutions and businesses. This is particularly visible in Asia, which today accounts for a growing share of global manufacturing,…