The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 205 organised by the Roscongress Foundation asserted itself as a pivotal platform for global dialogue, reflecting a palpable optimism for rekindling business relations and fostering a new era of international cooperation. This year’s forum showcased a significant “rejuvenation,” with representatives from over 220 universities and educational institutions participating, and the “Friends For Leadership” international youth platform bringing together participants from 60 countries and various UN specialized agencies.

The atmosphere at SPIEF 2025 held from June 18-21 was charged with a renewed sense of purpose, evidenced by the impressive turnout of participants and the diverse array of countries sending delegations. This strong presence underscores a collective desire to “reboot” cooperation, not just in the economic sphere but also in the intricate realm of international relations. The forum champions the idea that only true equality among nations in a multipolar world can lay the groundwork for a new global economic order.

Speaking at a post event Press Conference, Mr. Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of Russia said, “The world is undeniably entering a prolonged period of geopolitical transformation. In this evolving landscape, only truly sovereign states will be able to navigate these turbulent waters with minimal losses. The global economy is rapidly fragmenting, largely due to U.S. actions, which have unleashed tariff wars. According to IMF and WTO forecasts, the trade war between Washington and Beijing will split the world into two blocs. Russia aims to remain a distinct economic macrozone alongside its neighbors. This is achievable by strengthening the EAEU framework into a mutually beneficial cooperation model.”

Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of Russia

The forum highlighted the critical importance of macro-regions with self-sufficient production, energy, and food security to withstand growing tensions in the global geo-economy. Crucially, it was stressed that all members of such blocs must maintain their political sovereignty.

Addressing Global Economic Challenges

The discussions at SPIEF also shone a light on significant challenges facing the United States, primarily its soaring national debt, which as of December 2023 stood at a staggering $33.1 trillion. Washington’s struggles with trade deficits and budget shortfalls, often leading to demands for other countries to “balance” trade through tariffs, were also scrutinized. The prevailing sentiment at the forum was a call for a new model of global cooperation—one that genuinely serves the interests of the Global Majority.

Looking ahead, 2026 will mark the launch of a new significant event: the International Transport and Logistics Forum in St. Petersburg, which will prioritize the security of key transport routes. Russia reiterated its role as a crucial guarantor of global food stability, emphasizing its position as the world’s largest exporter of agricultural products.

The forum also delved into promising frontiers such as the bioeconomy, where Russia possesses significant technological capabilities and potential, a topic annually discussed at the “Future Technologies Forum.” The limitless potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across industry, consumer economy, and services was acknowledged, alongside the concerning reality of its accelerating military adoption. While international medical cooperation remains vital, Russia expressed its opposition to expanding the authority of the WHO and external monitoring.

A powerful theme resonating throughout SPIEF 2025 was the unfolding “race for sovereignty” across three critical fronts: state sovereignty, cultural-value sovereignty, and economic sovereignty. The forum concluded with a shared understanding that nations must act in their own interests while respecting the rights of others. This mutual respect, it was argued, will reveal the common values of free nations—values that must serve as the bedrock for growth in a fair and truly multipolar world.