Alexander Makarov, Director of the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute, participated in a meeting of the Specialists of the Russian-Korean Working Group on Economy, Trade and Resources. The main topic of discussion was 'Russian-Korean cooperation in the Arctic: North Sea Route, shipbuilding, development of the Arctic shelf,' according to the AARI press service.

The discussions focused on the prospects for cooperation between Russia and Korea in the Arctic. The scientists showed significant interest in discussions about future scientific collaboration in the Arctic region. Alexander Makarov informed the meeting participants about new research opportunities provided by the new format of drifting expeditions, supported by the ice-resistant platform research vessel Severny Polyus. 

'There's no doubt that the Severny Polyus expedition can and should serve as a platform for renewing international cooperation. We are open to collaboration and invite our colleagues to join us. There is a strong focus on attracting young scientists to work in the Arctic region. All our ideas would be impossible without young, proactive and passionate individuals,' highlighted Alexander Makarov.

The meeting was attended by Korean representatives from Korea University, Yonsei University, Kookmin University, Korea Maritime Institute (KMI), Gangneung-Wonju National University, Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering (KRISO), Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Inha Technical College, Export-Import Bank of Korea, Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), Korean Coordinating Committee of the KRD Forum, among other organisations.

Leading experts from the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute, the Project Management Centre of the Sever Research and Education Centre, SPbSU, SAFU, the Centre for Comprehensive European and International Studies, the Arktika Science Centre of SPbSU, Novatek and Rosatom represented Russian initiatives.