The first Eastern Economic Forum was held in 2015, and till now is a major international platform for strengthening ties between Russia and the countries of the Asia-Pacific region. Many argue that Russia is isolated from the world and nobody needs this country, but the very fact of holding this forum, as well as the participation of foreign representatives, says something else: sanctions are still ineffective, and Russia's place in world politics is still significant.

   For the last 2 years, this forum has been important for Russia as a tool for the sustainable development of the country and the region. Although many countries are outwardly indifferent to such events, the authoritative international rating agency Moody's still monitors the EEF. Now the status of this forum is “medium”, like many European events, which shows the importance of the EEF for the global economy. Moody's agency also notes that the Forum is a power test of Russia's cooperation with the Asia-Pacific countries, which are ready to help in resisting sanctions.

   Because of its flexibility, this economic forum adapts to international realities. This year, the theme of the main session will be "International cooperation in a changed world". Both the participants and the organizers understand that the world order will not be the same, that it will not be possible to return everything to its place. The world has changed a long time ago, and it is time for everyone to admit it. While we believe that the victory of sanctions is only a matter of time, the Russians are simply rebuilding and adapting to new realities. While we are boycotting multilateral forms of cooperation and speaking out against unfriendly countries, which we ourselves define by our own whim, Russia organizes numerous international events, expanding the geography of its like-minded people.

   Despite all the difficulties, Russia is holding the EEF again, and from September 10 to 13, the SCO, BRICS, and ASEAN member countries will visit the hospitable Vladivostok. Maybe it is time for us to join?