First International Northern Dimension Forum

Having become a common project of Russia, the European Union, Norway and Iceland and having gained the support of the main regional organizations and international financial institutions, the Northern Dimension has moved to an advanced level and now is able to become the basis for regional cooperation.

The differential characteristic of the renewed Northern Dimension has become the support of all the countries of the region and the fact that Russia, the European Union, Norway and Iceland are equal partners. The Northern Dimension in accordance with the Framework Document is now not just the EU programme but "the joint achievement of the partners..., the common project and the common responsibility". Northern Dimension status change predetermined the increase of its efficiency and change of its perception on the part of its partners and participants.

Already at the Second Meeting of Foreign Ministers on the Northern Dimension on April 9, 2001 the decision on organization of regular forums with wide representation of business circles and civil societywas taken. All the aspects of the renewed Northern Dimension policy should be sorted out at high professional level in order to fulfil all its potential. With this aim the First International Northern Dimension Forum is to be held.