The International Winter School on Arctic Studies in Veliky Novgorod has brought together young researchers and experts from Russia, India, Kazakhstan, China, Indonesia, USA and Finland. This was reported to TASS by the press service of the Project Office for Arctic Development (POAD).

The winter school's programme will continue until 8 February. Young scientists, including undergraduate and graduate students from faculties of political science, international relations, ecology, law and journalism from India, Kazakhstan, China, Russia, Indonesia, as well as experts from India, China, Russia, USA, Finland, participate in five thematic discussions addressing current issues of the Arctic region.

As noted by Nikolay Doronin, Chairman of the POAD Board, the role of the BRICS countries in international Arctic cooperation is becoming increasingly prominent. According to the expert, the BRICS countries have diverse attitudes towards Arctic projects. 'It's clear to all of us how robust China's Arctic programme is. India is interested in developing the "three poles" concept and conducting comprehensive studies of permafrost soils due to its Himalayan region. Arab countries are interested in developing logistics routes,' believes the expert.