The meeting’s main theme is “Russia and Germany in a globalising world. Partnership for the modernisation of society.” Participants discussed the prospects for cooperation between the two countries in the economic, cultural and educational spheres, as well as exchanged views on current international issues.
In his speech at the forum the President of Russia emphasised that Russia’s relations with Germany are constructive and contribute to the stability of the entire Euro-Atlantic region.
When analysing international issues, Dmitry Medvedev said that the time in which one economy and one currency dominated the globe is irretrievably gone, and that a new and more equitable global financial and economic system should be based on multipolarity, the rule of law and the mutual respect of interests.
At the same time, the President said that regardless of international crises Russia will continue to engage in innovative modernisation and considers its partnership with Germany to play a key role in this regard.
The St Petersburg Dialogue discussion forum was established in 2001 with the aim of developing Russian-German relations among all levels of society. It is supported by the German Chancellor and the Russian President. The forum is held in both in Russia and in Germany.