Russia-U.S. Dialogue Continues at SPIEF-2026

The American Chamber of Commerce in Russia (AmCham Russia) and the Roscongress Foundation will hold two Russia–U.S. dialogues at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF). The Russia–U.S. Business Dialogue will take place at the Forum for the second consecutive year. The first dialogue was held at SPIEF 2025 and generated significant interest from both Russian and American businesses. AmCham Russia and the Roscongress Foundation continue to receive inquiries from companies in both countries interested in developing cooperation and restoring business ties.

“Despite all the challenges of recent years, interest in professional and humanitarian dialogue between Russia and the United States remains strong. We see demand from the business community, cultural institutions, and expert circles for continued engagement and the search for joint solutions. SPIEF remains one of the few international platforms where such an open and pragmatic conversation is possible,” said Robert Agee, President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Chamber of Commerce in Russia. 

The session will serve as a platform for discussing prospects for cooperation between Russian and American businesses, as well as potential joint projects in the context of the new global economic reality. 

In addition, for the first time, SPIEF will feature a dedicated session focused on the cultural dimension of Russia–U.S. relations. This year, the Roscongress Foundation, with the support of AmCham Russia, will organize the dialogue “Russia–U.S.: A Dialogue of Cultures.” Historically, cultural exchange has remained one of the most important channels of interaction between the two countries, even during the most challenging periods. The triumph of Russian ballet in the United States, “jazz diplomacy,” and large-scale humanitarian initiatives of the twentieth century became examples of mutual interest and respect. Today, cultural cooperation, alongside projects in energy, technology, and the Arctic, continues to hold significant potential for the development of bilateral relations. 

The keynote speaker of the session will be Rodney Mims Cook Jr., Chairman of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts. His participation in SPIEF is organized with the support of the Roscongress Foundation. Mr. Cook is also the Founder and President of the National Monuments Foundation (NMF), an organization that has implemented a number of significant architectural and restoration projects around the world, including in Russia and St. Petersburg. 

Session Programme (4 June 2026): 

11:00–12:15

Russia–U.S.: A Dialogue of Cultures 

17:00–18:15

Russia–U.S. Business Dialogue: Pragmatism as a Strategy: Business in the Era of a New Global Reality