St. Petersburg, June 03 (QNA) - Director of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum 2026 (SPIEF) Alexey Valkov said the forum continues to reinforce its position as a leading global platform that brings together decision-makers, business leaders and experts from around the world to discuss major economic challenges and explore opportunities for future cooperation and partnerships.

In statements to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Valkov said the 2026 edition features an expanded agenda of more than 200 sessions covering a wide range of economic, investment and technology-related topics.

He stressed that the forum focuses on promoting practical dialogue and the exchange of expertise and ideas that contribute to building a more stable and resilient global economy.

Valkov noted that the session featuring Russian President Vladimir Putin will be one of the forum's key highlights, as it is expected to address the future of the Russian and global economies, as well as prospects for international cooperation in the coming years.

The forum officially opened on Wednesday with broad international participation, bringing together heads of government, ministers, senior officials, experts, representatives of financial and economic institutions, and business leaders from across the globe.

Running through June 6 under the theme "Pragmatic Dialogue: the Path to a Stable Future," the forum is widely regarded as one of the world's leading economic gatherings. Discussions focus on global economic developments, trade, investment, energy, technology, artificial intelligence and sustainable development.

Saudi Arabia is the guest of honor at this year's edition, reflecting the growing economic partnership between Saudi Arabia and Russia, while also marking 100 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The forum's agenda also includes discussions on global economic transformation, the future of economic cooperation among BRICS nations, financial markets and investment development, energy security, global supply chains, digital transformation, innovation and emerging technologies.

In addition, participants are examining ways to strengthen cooperation among emerging economies, expand trade and investment partnerships, and enhance the role of financial institutions in supporting economic growth and sustainable development amid ongoing global economic challenges and shifts.

SPIEF remains a prominent fixture on the international economic calendar, serving as a key platform for dialogue, exchanging perspectives on major global economic issues, and identifying future opportunities for growth and development. (QNA)