A discussion on the future of the Amur River took place in Khabarovsk as part of the Russian-Chinese Forum. The V.I. Vernadsky Nongovernmental Ecological Foundation participated in the Forum at the invitation of Roscongress and the Khabarovsk Territory Administration, and moderated the section “Amur is the River of Millennia. Priorities of Environmental Development".

The business program of the Forum included other sessions on economic cooperation between Russia and China, energy, tourism development, deepening intercultural cooperation, environmental issues and entrepreneurship. Andrey Cheshev, Deputy General Director of the Vernadsky Foundation, underscored the symbolism of the river as a link between the two countries: “The Amur is not a barrier, but a living connecting line of our peoples, cultures and economies.” Stretching for 3,500 kilometers, the Amur River forms a natural border between Russia and China, while its basin is distributed among three countries: 54% — Russia, 44% — China, 2% — Mongolia. This cross-border artery plays a key role in the ecosystem of the entire region.

The moderator drew attention to the global context: “Water issues are becoming more relevant and fully comply with the UN Sustainable Development Goals until 2030 (Agenda 2030). Rivers are not just water resources, but an essential part of the biosphere, the key to preserving biodiversity.”

Representatives of government, science and business from both countries participated in the discussion. Partnership in cross-border regions, joint problem solving and the search for mutually acceptable solutions for the benefit of all participants in the process can serve as an example for other countries, as issues of conservation and sharing of transboundary water resources are becoming increasingly relevant every year. “Only by joining our efforts will we be able to achieve significant results, — Andrey Cheshev stressed. “Partnership in managing resources such as Amur is a test of our ability to achieve sustainable development.”

The Forum brought together leading companies and organizations from Russia and China. Over 30 agreements were signed during the event, including 25 contracts with foreign partners. The Vernadsky Foundation expresses its gratitude to the Khabarovsk Territory Administration and the Roscongress Foundation for the opportunity not only to become a part of this significant event, but also to provide an opportunity to moderate the section, which helps strengthen partnership relations between our countries.