Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, urged the creation of a dedicated Arctic fund to finance development projects in polar regions. The proposal was presented during a joint session of the Russian Federation State Council commissions held as part of the International North Pole Forum. An official briefing described the discussion and highlighted the proposal as a tool to accelerate Arctic investment, without specifying a single source for the report.
The proposal notes that such a fund would focus on infrastructure development and capital allocation for long‑term projects that connect Arctic communities, improve logistics, and support sustainable growth. It emphasizes that funding could target critical corridors, energy efficiency, port modernization, cold‑chain systems for food and medicine, and digital connectivity that empowers remote regions to participate fully in the national economy.
He stated, “We recommend creating an Arctic infrastructure or investment fund for the integrated development of the region”, underscoring the need for coordinated planning across sectors and borders to unlock shared opportunities. The fund would act as a catalyst for linking ports, rail lines, energy projects, and community programs while backing indigenous enterprises and small businesses.
Dmitriev stressed that the Arctic demands a tailored approach. The strategy goes beyond the North Sea Route and envisions a sustainable economic ecosystem built on diverse industries, environmental safeguards, and cross‑border collaboration with regional partners and indigenous communities.
On March 26, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia supports establishing a North Pole cooperation zone, signaling a policy move to align Arctic interests within Moscow’s international agenda.
Prior to any concrete progress, Russia and the United States should pursue constructive cooperation in Arctic matters. Moscow and Washington need to identify shared goals that promote stability, responsible resource development, and strong environmental protections.
Earlier analyses noted potential threats to Russia’s Arctic economic interests, underscoring the need for proactive engagement, clear governance, and resilient strategies to safeguard assets and communities in the region.