The plenary session of the fourth Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) is being held in the Russian port city of Vladivostok.
The session began with a keynote speech by Russian President Vladimir Putin. He stressed that the development of the Far East region is a long-term policy for Russia and the region's economic growth will gain its momentum in the coming years.
Noting the increasing challenges posed by protectionism, Putin said it is vital to retain the spirit of economic freedom so the region can continue playing a key role in global economy.
The forum, under the slogan "The Russian Far East: Expanding the Range of Possibilities," is being held in Vladivostok on September 11-13.
Proposed by Russian President Putin in 2015, the EEF represents Russia's efforts to push forward cooperation in the Far East.
