The Amur region should become Russia’s gateway to China — Vasily Orlov

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China remains the main foreign economic partner of the Amur region. In recent years, between 50% and 80% of the region’s foreign trade has traditionally been with China. Last year set a record for the region in terms of investment, with more than 950 billion roubles attracted. Governor of the Amur region Vasily Orlov spoke about this in an interview with the press office of the National Centre RUSSIA.

According to Orlov, cooperation between the Amur region and China covers several areas. One of the largest projects in Russia — a gas cluster — is currently being implemented in the city of Svobodny. This presidential initiative brings together two mega-projects: Gazprom’s gas processing plant and Sibur’s gas chemical complex.

"Apart from the gas processing cluster, it is worth noting the Vostochny Cosmodrome, high-tech agriculture, and processing industries. For example, we have unique facilities in Russia producing dihydroquercetin and arabinogalactan — dietary supplements that are in high demand, including in Western markets," said Vasily Orlov.

In addition, a unique tourist attraction is being built — the world’s first cross-border cable car across the Amur River, connecting the Russian city of Blagoveshchensk with the Chinese city of Heihe. Once operational, it is expected to significantly increase tourist flows to the Amur region.

"We warmly welcome the visa-free travel that China has granted to Russian citizens. President Vladimir Putin announced at the Eastern Economic Forum that Russia would reciprocate. For Blagoveshchensk and Heihe, this is a serious growth driver. Last year, about 150,000 foreign tourists visited us — mostly from China. But in Heihe, more than 1.2 million domestic Chinese tourists arrived over the same period, and only 10% of them were able to cross into our region. This is a huge reserve we must take advantage of," noted Vasily Orlov.

To achieve this, the region is working on two priorities: how to bring tourists in and what to offer them. This year, construction will begin on the first five-star hotel in Blagoveshchensk, and next year the year-round Amur Seasons fair and other tourist facilities will open. The city’s airport is being modernised: in December, construction of the passenger terminal will be completed. It will meet all modern standards and enable the development of international air travel.

"We are building museums and cultural spaces. A unique fountain has been built — the largest of its kind in Eurasia. In October, the Russian-Chinese Friendship House will open — a modern interactive venue where visitors can learn about the history, writing, and cuisine of the two countries. The Dino Park is being renovated — one of the largest fossil sites is located near Blagoveshchensk. Next year we will open a museum in the historic fire station building. Today, there are more than 50 museums in Blagoveshchensk. But Chinese tourists are interested not only in culture. We have stunning nature and well-developed industrial tourism: the Vostochny Cosmodrome, the gas cluster, hydroelectric power stations. The President has also instructed us to establish in Blagoveshchensk a federal-level Russian-Chinese business cooperation centre, which will include modern transport and tourist infrastructure," said Vasily Orlov.

The meeting with Governor Vasily Orlov at the National Centre RUSSIA marked the opening of the Amur Region Days, taking place from 23 to 28 September.