The agreement documents the commitment to develop long-term cooperation in the study and preservation of the natural and cultural heritage of Arctic regions. The parties have agreed to build a partnership based on mutual benefit, equality and exchange of competencies.

The agreement envisages joint research, preparation of analytical materials, conferences, seminars and round tables. The document also provides a framework for planning and implementing projects and programs to support basic and applied research, upgrade scientific work, and promote the results produced by Arctic science.

The Project Office for Arctic Development regularly implements initiatives in the Republic of Karelia. Completed and ongoing projects include those of the cultural education program «PORA. Time to visit…Karelia!», designed to support the region’s small museums and popularize the local cultural heritage.

Scientists of KarRC RAS in collaboration with PORA support a study on child sleep characteristics in northern regions, which investigates the effect of Arctic conditions on the health of schoolchildren.



In 2019, PORA organized strategizing sessions in Petrozavodsk to work out proposals for the Arctic 2035 Strategy, including development of Belomorsk port infrastructure and improving the quality of life in Arctic territories.

Karelia was also a venue for the projects Arctic Volunteer, in which citizens are trained as public environmental inspectors, and the Arctic Clean-up Day, which annually unites volunteers for local environmental improvements.

Besides, the region participates in the Polar Index analytical project, which helps assess the sustainability and quality of life in Arctic regions of Russia and establish an open dialogue between science, authorities and experts.