Investments Flow In: Businesses Aiding Arctic Development

On January 22, a press conference was held in Murmansk by the Governor of Murmansk Region, Andrey Chibis. One of the topics discussed was preparation for the International Arctic Forum, which will take place in 2027.

The head of the region reminded that Murmansk became the sole venue for the forum thanks to successful results of work in the spring of last year. Preparations for this major international event have already begun in the city.

Responding to journalists« questions, Andrey Chibis spoke about the role the region currently assigns to large businesses. According to him, the region expects companies to invest, create jobs, increase wages, and actively participate in addressing demographic issues. Specifically, this involves supporting families with children and changing employers» attitudes towards young women and employees going on maternity leave.

The governor emphasized that such approaches are already finding support from the region«s largest enterprises. PhosAgro is investing in the development of phosphate mining, production of apatite concentrate, science, and social projects. Norilsk Nickel (Nornickel) is implementing new production and environmental initiatives.

Cooperation agreements are also in place with companies such as EuroChem, Severstal, Acron, the North-Western Phosphorus Company, Novatek, and other major players.

Special attention is paid to social projects: purchasing ambulances, developing infrastructure, and implementing initiatives using extra-budgetary funds. Rosatom is involved in the development of the nuclear fleet and the Lovozersky Plant, where a large-scale investment program has been launched.

According to Andrey Chibis, despite sanctions and economic difficulties, all key partners of Murmansk Region continue to implement investment programs, which remains an important factor for the region«s sustainable development.

More About the Press Conference

Andrey Chibis«s press conference lasted over four hours. Journalists, bloggers, as well as public and channel administrators gathered: we showed what treats they were greeted with at the event. The event began with a presentation by the governor, in which he detailed how he sees the development of Murmansk Region in 2026.

The first question asked to the governor was about gas prices. Next, Andrey Chibis answered whether the deadlines for capital repairs would be accelerated. He was also asked what will happen with waste in the region and if new production facilities will appear.

Journalist 51.RU Alexandra Balaba asked the governor if anything could be done about fish prices: in Vladimir Putin«s opinion, Russians lack this product in their diet.

The press conference was very emotional at times, at one point Andrey Chibis sincerely admitted who he«d like to punch. The governor was asked a sharp question about the resettlement of dilapidated housing. A question was also raised about the renovation of Severomorsk.

Many topics were raised at the meeting with journalists: what savings in the budgetary sphere will lead to, why snow in Murmansk is black again, what is happening with medicine, how to speed up the process of resettlement from dilapidated housing.