Russia and the USA: Business seeks a formula for effective partnership

Russia and the USA: Business seeks a formula for effective partnership

A meeting took place in Moscow between Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation and Executive Secretary of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) Organizing Committee, and Robert Agee, President and CEO of the American Chamber of Commerce in Russia (AmCham Russia).

The two sides discussed the current state and future prospects of business cooperation.

"Russia is open to partnership, and companies wishing to return may do so on a competitive basis within the existing legal framework. It is important that this process remain transparent, and that businesses operate according to principles of integrity and accountability. The art of possibility lies in clearly and convincingly communicating the advantages of the Russian market, finding practical solutions, and building mutually beneficial cooperation under the new conditions," Anton Kobyakovemphasized.

One of the key topics of the meeting was the participation of American businesses in SPIEF, which will be held on 18-21 June 2025. Although the presence of American companies at the Forum has declined since 2021, representatives of the US business community continue to take part, and several companies are expected to attend in 2025. Applications have already been submitted, confirming a continued interest in dialogue and engagement. SPIEF remains a platform for exchanging views and discussing current cooperation issues.

The two sides also noted that hosting a Russia-USA business dialogue during the Forum would help expand business contacts and identify new opportunities. Foreign companies continue to operate in Russia, and creating effective mechanisms for interaction will support further business development.

The dialogue is expected to include discussions on global sustainable development, innovative security solutions, and topics related to ESG and corporate responsibility. The Forum offers an open space for international business representatives to share experiences and ideas.

Robert Ageeconfirmed AmCham Russia's intention to continue cooperation and stressed that the foundation of a multipolar world lies in the shared values embraced by people and business communities across countries. These values form the basis for stable and mutually beneficial cooperation.

"It is important that companies continuing to operate in Russia have clear and transparent conditions for growing their business. Business is always focused on growth, innovation, and partnership. SPIEF and other forums organized by the Roscongress Foundation provide valuable platforms for this. I also plan to share in Washington the opportunities Russia offers to American companies, not only in areas such as innovative healthcare solutions and ESG," he noted.

AmCham Russia actively cooperates with the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (RSPP), the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), and the Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI). The Chamber plans to integrate into the SPIEF 2025 business programme and fully supports initiatives aimed at rebuilding partnerships. A roundtable discussion at SPIEF 2025 is also being considered.

In addition, prospects were discussed for AmCham Russia's participation in Russian Energy Week, scheduled for 15-17 October 2025, as well as in other Roscongress Foundation projects, which would help expand international cooperation across various platforms.