Future Technologies Forum: Charting a Course for Russian Scientific Leadership

A New Era for Chemistry and Materials Science

Moscow's International Trade Centre hosted the Future Technologies Forum, a crucible of cutting-edge scientific thought. On February 21, 2025, President Vladimir Putin joined leading scientists and researchers to discuss the transformative potential of new materials and chemistry.

This year marks the inception of a national project dedicated to these crucial fields, aiming to build infrastructure and foster an environment conducive to innovation in chemicals, biotechnology, advanced composites, and rare metals. This ambitious undertaking reflects Russia's commitment to reclaiming its position as a global scientific powerhouse.

Putin's Vision: Reclaiming Technological Sovereignty

President Putin addressed the forum, emphasizing the vital role of chemistry and materials science in driving progress across all sectors, from healthcare to microelectronics.

Acknowledging past missteps, he lamented the decline of the once-powerful Soviet chemical industry. "This heritage has been largely squandered and wasted," Putin admitted, expressing regret over lost opportunities and the subsequent dependence on imports.

However, the focus is now firmly on the future. Putin highlighted ongoing projects, such as the Tobolsk Petrochemical Plant and the Amur Gas Chemical Complex, demonstrating Russia's renewed dedication to developing its own technological solutions and achieving self-sufficiency.

"To keep pace with the dynamics of progress and global competition, we must exponentially enhance the potential of our domestic chemical industry," Putin declared, stressing the need for a full-cycle approach, from resource exploration to the production of high-value goods.

He also emphasized the strategic importance of catalysts, the "very foundation of chemistry," and the establishment of a dedicated scientific cluster at the Boreskov Institute of Catalysis in Novosibirsk.

Investment in Innovation: Fueling Future Technologies

Putin announced a significant financial commitment to the national technological leadership project, with nearly 170 billion rubles allocated from the federal budget for 2025-2030, and an anticipated trillion rubles in private investment. This substantial investment underscores the importance of prioritizing innovation and supporting breakthrough research.

Putin acknowledged the unexpected benefits of sanctions, noting that Russian companies are increasingly turning to domestic scientists for solutions, often finding them superior to foreign alternatives.

He also highlighted the importance of leveraging advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and access to affordable energy to drive productivity and establish a competitive edge.

Global Collaboration and a Multipolar World

While emphasizing the importance of domestic development, Putin stressed Russia's commitment to international scientific collaboration. He underscored the role of BRICS as a global platform for technological advancement and expressed openness to continued cooperation with Western scientists.

Looking ahead, Putin proposed dedicating the next Future Technologies Forum to the bioeconomy, recognizing its potential to shape the future of global growth.

A Call to Action: Forging a Brighter Future

President Putin's address served as a powerful call to action, urging scientists, engineers, and business leaders to work together to unlock the vast potential of chemistry and materials science. His vision of a technologically sovereign Russia, driving global progress through innovation and collaboration, resonated throughout the forum.