Official website of the President of Russia

News   /

In his message, Mr Putin says, in particular:

“Russia supports UNESCO’s efforts to draw the world community’s attention to the humanitarian aspects of building the information society and to the ethical, legal and socio-cultural issues involved. Today, with new technologies developing at a very rapid pace, there is a danger that they will be used not just for humanity’s benefit. Dialogue between authoritative specialists, scientists and cultural figures who share UNESCO’s high ideals and are making them a reality, can help overcome the problems arising out of the global information processes underway.

Russia’s initiative to hold this forum is another sign of our country’s interest in expanding our cooperation with UNESCO, including regarding preparation for the Tunis stage of the World Summit on the Information Society.

Your conference is taking place in St Petersburg, a city with three centuries of history and unique cultural and historical monuments, many of which are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. I hope that St Petersburg’s special atmosphere will contribute to your successful work.”