In his speech, Mr Ivanov stressed the importance of the issues discussed during the forum, and stressed that no significant macro-economic decisions can or should be taken in Russia without consulting economists.
In Russia work is actively proceeding to improve the business climate and quality of management. In difficult economic conditions, and as investors are looking for new safe havens, Russia must do everything in its power to attract investment, the Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office said.
Sergei Ivanov also read the President of Russia’s greetings to the forum’s participants and guests.
During the forum Mr Ivanov met with former US Secretary of State Colin Powell. They discussed the current situation and prospects for developing trade, economic and investment cooperation between their two countries.
Sergei Ivanov expressed his condolences to the victims of the Boston bombings and the man-made disaster in Texas.