The International Open Dialogue of the National Centre RUSSIA will become an annual event

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The final session of the Open Dialogue "Future of the World. New Platform for Global Growth" took place at the National Centre RUSSIA on the closing day, April 30.

Experts of the final session described the format of the Open Dialogue as unique. The essay contest gave international participants an opportunity to express their ideas for improving the future of the world in various areas — both at the regional and continental levels. Guests emphasised the importance of scaling up the project and holding the Open Dialogue on a regular basis, noted Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office of the Russian Federation, Maxim Oreshkin.

"First and foremost: regardless of people’s views, beliefs, or ideas — everyone has the opportunity to be heard. This became the key feature of the Open Dialogue. Because often, the very ideas that initially seem controversial or premature later turn out to be the ideas of the future. The second principle is the principle of honesty. Those who participate in this event must be ready to be open. Today, at this final conference, we are witnessing the projects and ideas that passed selection, received development, and proved their value," said Maxim Oreshkin.

At the request of essayists and experts, the organising committee has decided to hold the Open Dialogue annually. Next year, it is expected to expand significantly — with additional practical days and new opportunities for participants to interact and explore the materials of each pitch session.

"As a result of the Open Dialogue, we have published a unique four-volume collection — a compilation of essays by authors from 102 countries. It contains bold ideas, vivid reflections, and a fresh perspective on the future of the global economy. All volumes will be available in digital format on our website. I am confident that this collection will inspire thousands of people around the world to take their own steps toward change. I would like to thank everyone who came to Moscow to be part of this wide-ranging conversation. Over these days, participants have formed real friendships, and many admit: it's sad to leave, because a piece of their heart remains here — in our beloved Moscow," said Natalia Virtuozova, Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA.

The organisation of all three days of the dialogue was carried out at the highest level, emphasised SDSN President Jeffrey Sachs.

"You managed the organisation of the Open Dialogue excellently. I want to congratulate Russia on the success of this format and encourage you to keep going in the same spirit. I am an American, and coming to Russia was not easy for me. In my country, there is a bias about this — it is believed that dialogue is something dangerous. That is fundamentally wrong. As soon as I received the invitation, I knew I would participate. If someone does not want to take part in the Open Dialogue — that’s their problem. They are the ones missing out. I would like to urge Russia: keep going," said Jeffrey Sachs.

Over the course of three days, participants and experts evaluated the essays submitted for the Open Dialogue. During this time, they had the opportunity to get to know each other, communicate, establish horizontal connections, and find potential partners from different countries.

"This is a very important event. My colleagues and I attend hundreds of events, and in terms of organisation, this is one of the best. I would like to thank everyone involved in its preparation — the organisers, the teams, and the Russian Embassy in Rabat (Morocco), which nominated me. Without them, I would not have been here. I spoke with many participants. The scale is impressive. Participants can listen to essays and exchange opinions. I would like to see more formats for communication — for example, dedicated discussions with experts on energy. That would allow for hearing different perspectives, including on issues of investment and technology," said Rachid Yazami, President of KVI Holdings and member of the International Committee for the Global Energy Prize from Singapore.

More than 100 guests from 48 countries across all continents of the world took part in the international Open Dialogue at the National Centre RUSSIA. Among them were the authors of essays selected by the expert council of the Open Dialogue from 700 submissions. The essays were written in 18 languages, including Pashto, Malagasy, Serbian, Greek, and others.

The topic that generated the greatest interest among essay authors during the competition was "Investments in Human Capital" (41%), followed by "Investments in Connectivity" (24%), "Investments in Technology" (22%), and "Investments in the Environment" (13%). Expert pitch sessions were held for each of these topics, and based on the results, some essay authors selected by world-class experts were given the opportunity to speak at the panel pitching and final session of the Open Dialogue.