The message reads, in part:
“We are glad that the St Petersburg forum is growing more influential with every year and attracts an increasing number of participants from government agencies and business communities, as well as researchers and experts in education, high technology and social policy from Russia and many other countries. The forum has become a popular venue for discussing a broad range of issues on the development of a modern labour market.
The introduction of innovative technology and R&D results, the competitiveness of personnel, the development of human capital and the enhancement of labour efficiency are vital for strengthening the economy, dealing with the biggest social problems and improving the structure of the labour market. We must give priority attention to the improvement of educational and professional standards and the creation of a system of training professionals that will be maximally geared to market needs. We must also create conditions for people to realise their potential, effectively use their knowledge and skills and develop new competencies.
I hope that the forum participants will hold open and constructive discussions to exchange experience and to consider possible solutions to current problems in the field of employment relations.”