RussiaRussiaOPPORTUNITYOPPORTUNITYOPPORTUNITY

RUSSIA - SINGAPORE A VIBRANT CULTURAL KALEIDOSCOPE

n Ambassador Andrey Tatarinov on Positive Trends n New Russian Cultural and Optimistic Centre to Boost Activities Outlook When in Art, Culture and COVID-19 Ends Education n Successful Investments in the Fight Against COVID-19

A PUBLICATION BY THE EMBASSY OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION, OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA SINGAPORE 2020 A B OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020

Untitled-1 1 16/4/2020 1:31:33 PM Contents RussiaOPPORTUNITY

RussiaOPPORTUNITYOPPORTUNITY

RUSSIA - SINGAPORE A VIBRANT CULTURAL KALEIDOSCOPE

n Ambassador Andrey Tatarinov on Positive Trends n New Russian Cultural and Optimistic Centre to Boost Activities Outlook When in Art, Culture and COVID-19 Ends Education

n Successful Investments in the Fight Against COVID-19

A PUBLICATION BY THE EMBASSY OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION, OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA SINGAPORE 2020 A

Published in association with Embassy of the Russian Federation, Singapore

02 AMBASSADOR’S INTERVIEW Russia and Singapore Ties: Positive Trends and Optimistic

Outlook When COVID-19 Ends 51 Nassim Road Singapore 258439 08 Ambassador Tatarinov on Russia-Singapore Trade Tel +65 6235 1832/1834 Fax +65 6733 4780 10 INVESTMENT [email protected] How RDIF is Investing in the Fight Against COVID-19 www.singapore.mid.ru 12 President Putin: Developing ICT as Russia Emerges PUBLISHER Sun Media Pte Ltd from COVID-19 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ESG Sees Great Potential in Russia 14 Nomita Dhar

16 Nizhny Novgorod Region Reaches Out for Partners EMBASSY EDITORIAL LIAISON Sergey Novoseltsev 18 Op-Ed: EAEU-Singapore FTA Opens Asia for Russian Businesses EDITORIAL Ranee Sahaney Syed Jaafar Alkaff SUCCESS STORIES 19 Brendan Tay Russia-Singapore Business Council: More than a ADVERTISING & MARKETING Decade of Progress Swati Singh

MacCoffee Going Far and Beyond in Russia DESIGN & LAYOUT Syed Jaafar Alkaff 20 22 Tatiana Sheremetieva: Exceptional Russian PHOTOS Russian Federation President’s Style & Business Office & News Agencies, Singapore Ministry of Communications & Information

PRINTING 24 ARTS & CULTURE Times Printers Pte Ltd Russia - Singapore Vibrant Cultural Kaleidoscope Published by 26 Builder of Worlds: Sergey Lukianenko Russia’s Epic Fantasy Sci-Fi Writer 20 Kramat Lane #01-02 United House Singapore 228773 28 TRAVEL Tel +65 6735-2972 Fax +65 6735-3114 Magical Moscow [email protected] www.sunmediaonline.com ISLAND LIFE MCI (P) 053/06/2020 © Copyright 2020 by Sun Media Pte Ltd. The opinions, pronouncements Long Beach: Singapore’s Classic Seafood Restaurant or views expressed or implied in this publication are those of the authors or 32 contributors. The aim of this publication is to guide and provide general Has Come A Long Way information. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all the information contained, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any loss incurred in any way whatsoever by any entity, company, organisation or a person relying on this information.

OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 1 AMBASSADOR’S INTERVIEW RUSSIA and SINGAPORE Ties: Positive Trends and Optimistic Outlook When COVID-19 Ends H.E. Andrey Tatarinov the Ambassador of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Singapore was interviewed by Editor-in-Chief Nomita Dhar on the current ‘extraordinary’ situation with COVID-19 and highlights of Russia and Singapore bilateral ties during his five-year term here our Excellency, 2020 is turning It is an extraordinary situation. There was I’ve been watching the situation very closely, out to be a very special year. something similar about 100 years ago called sending reports to my government about the I have interviewed you many the Spanish Flu (influenza). It took millions of situation in Singapore; about the measures times in the past but this is the lives and it seemed something like that could the government here is taking to combat Y not be possible in the 21st century. But here COVID-19 and how it is mitigating the first time we are meeting under these economic consequences of this pandemic. very special circumstances as the whole we are in the midst of another pandemic. The whole world is engulfed in the ‘flames’ I hope that joint efforts between both our world has almost come to a standstill of COVID-19. I can’t leave Singapore and countries will contribute to bringing this and humanity is trying to cope with the fly to Moscow as airports and borders are ‘thriller’ story to a happy ending. COVID-19 pandemic. What do you feel closed. And I feel as if globalization has come about this? to a halt! Apart from travel, how else has it impacted your diplomatic work? Other embassies have had to repatriate many of their citizens and was that the case with you as well?

It is not a secret that COVID-19 pandemic and various restrictions imposed by the governments of almost all countries dramatically affected many spheres of life including the world’s air connections. As the situation developed, those Russian citizens, who remained in Singapore at the end of March, realized that they were not able to get back home as their flights, including connectiing flights, were cancelled.

We did our best to provide them with all possible assistance. The Consular section of the Embassy remained open (with all precautionary measures taken, of course) even during the Circuit Breaker period. The diplomats helped our tourists, including those who were in Singapore in transit, to get on board special repatriation flights organized by the Russian Government from those international hubs, where it was possible. Those, who required financial support, received it from the Government.

As of today, we have repatriated as many people as we could, and the work is ongoing. 2 OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 AMBASSADOR’S INTERVIEW

(Left): The Russian Defense Ministry and Gamalei National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology have began clinical trials of a vaccine against the novel coronavirus on 16th June 2020. The trials are expected to take about one and a half months (Photo © Yegor Aleyev / TASS)

On the subject of medical and health diplomacy, what are the areas of collaboration between Russia and Singapore?

Russia has sent humanitarian aid to many countries. Italy was one of the first as it was hit by the pandemic badly and it was followed by several CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) member states. We’ve also provided humanitarian assistance “Four years ago, in Sochi, a comprehensive plan of to Laos and Cambodia, which included action to promote cooperation between ASEAN and personal protective gear, and medicine. We Russia was adopted at the commemorative Russia- also have a framework for collaboration with ASEAN. ASEAN Summit. A major part of this document included a section titled “Help in Pandemic Preparedness and Four years ago, in Sochi, a comprehensive plan of action to promote cooperation Response”. The objective was to work together to between ASEAN and Russia was adopted enhance our preparedness and capacity in responding at the commemorative Russia-ASEAN to communicable and emerging infectious diseases, summit. A major part of this document including pandemics, other potential public health and included a section titled “Help in Pandemic Preparedness and Response”. The objective biological threats” was to work together to enhance our preparedness and capacity in responding How well has Russia handled the crisis so the epidemic went to the regions. Moscow to communicable and emerging infectious far? began this fight earlier than other places diseases, including pandemics, other and we have succeeded. Now the rate of potential public health and biological I’d say that Russia has been handling the crisis growth for infection is very low, less then threats. Preparedness, prevention, control well. Due to timely preparation work that 2%, which enabled us to now start opening measures and capacity building would started from the very beginning of January the country. And, of course, we learn from include among others, the strengthening after the WHO and the Chinese government the experience of other countries, including of areas on surveillance, laboratory informed us about the outbreak. We started Singapore. We share many similar measures necessary preparations and measures to fight the spread. However, given the size were taken in the large Russian cities and of the country and population of Russia at surrounding regions. After the first two TRAVEL 146 million, it will take time. cases in Russia were registered at the end of ADVISORIES January (both were Chinese nationals) we We see some positive trends today and in an In view of the COVID-19 situation did not have a single case for months and travellers should be prepared for optimistic scenario, we hope by the end of it gave us time to prepare the hospitals, the further travel restrictions to be put in July to be able to return to a ‘new normal’. Of ICU facilities and medical staff. That enabled effect with little or no advance notice. course, it is understood that until we have an us to react well, although initially we did not Please visit the following websites for effective vaccine and treatment therapy we feel so optimistic as there were more than the latest information: 200,000 Russians abroad, and they were in will have to follow the mask wearing regime; the midst of returning to Russia! wearing gloves when shopping or taking FOR RUSSIAN CITIZENS public transport etc. These measures will all https://www.rospotrebnadzor.ru/ We had a big flow of imported cases. There be the new normal in Russia. about/info/news/ were about 240,000 people who returned to Russia, and at least 120,000 of them were Russia currently has civil and military FOR SINGAPOREANS in transit at Moscow, so the city rapidly research institutes working on the vaccine https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Countries- became the largest cluster in Russia. And and some are already undergoing clinical Regions/R/Russian-Federation/Travel- for a month or so, up to 60% of infected testing, so I think that a vaccine is possible Page cases were concentrated in Moscow. Then by the end of the year. OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 3 AMBASSADOR’S INTERVIEW

networking, human resource capacities and the first time the Russian President’s visit to information sharing. This was confirmed in the Republic. What are the other highlights our statement in the Russia-ASEAN Strategic for you during your posting in Singapore? Partnership, adopted in Singapore in 2018. And following this arrangement last year, This morning, I went through several past we have tabled similar initiatives for the issues of your IN Diplomacy publications, next East Asia Summit too. Last year, the first which helped to remind me about our group of ASEAN experts underwent training Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2018, and in Vladivostok. We are prepared to receive President Putin’s visit among other events. more experts from the ASEAN countries to Time flies, and looking back I see how my work together. We have done this because tenure was very busy and I believe successful we understand that such infectious diseases in terms of developing relations, friendships will be with us for a long time. and cooperation between Russia and Singapore in many fields. I have mentioned There have been other initiatives too. the commemorative Russia-ASEAN Summit During their co-chairmanship in ADMM-Plus in Sochi 2016, and on this occasion, Prime Expert’s Working Group on Military Medicine Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s working visit to (2014-2016), Russia and Thailand initiated Russia where he met President Putin and the establishment of the ASEAN Center of Prime Minister Medvedev. Military Medicine (ACMM) in Bangkok to enhance coordination and cooperation In 2018, President Putin was in Singapore among the Military Medical Services of the for a State visit in commemoration of the ASEAN Member States and Plus Countries. 50th anniversary of our diplomatic relations. Today, the ACMM facilities, if necessary, can And, of course, I was happy to see our top also be used to fight COVID-19. So we have leaders meet. And besides that, there were a deep engagement with many countries many, many visits and interactions between in the field of public health and combating Russia and Singapore. Many members of infectious diseases. (See accompanying box A major diplomatic highlight in Russia-Singapore the Singapore government visited Russia story – Pandemic Preparedness and Response) relations. President Putin was in Singapore for on different occasions, be it the sessions of a State visit in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2018 As we near the end of your term as intergovernmental commission, co-chaired Ambassador in Singapore, we note that by Deputy Prime Ministers of Russia and you have had a very colourful and busy Singapore, or at other international fora tenure here. For example, we witnessed held in Russia. Pandemic Preparedness and Response “Russia has a huge experience in mitigation We examine closely every request of infectious diseases and is looking forward of outbreaks of infectious diseases, like assistance from abroad. Now we are to continue such practices, now with smallpox, anthrax etc. Because of this, looking into ones from Algeria, Egypt, emphasis on COVID-19. our health experts are well-prepared and Qatar, Kuwait, Libya, Lebanon, Yemen, equipped with a wide range of quarantine Syria, Morocco, Palestine, Sudan and Russia as a member of the East Asia and sanitary tools as well as with the curing Tunisia. We are also working closely with Summit (EAS) is actively pushing the topic schemes. the WHO, providing financial support to on cooperation in epidemics prevention. this Geneva-based UN body. Russia has Two Senior Officials Meetings have already We are open to any cooperation with the recently donated US$1 million to enhance taken place in Moscow in 2017 and the countries all over the world and are ready to WHO field operations in Central Asia, other in Bangkok in 2019. As a follow-up share the knowledge, experience and best especially in Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. of these activities Russia has also proposed practices in case the other side is interested. (with the support from China and The position of the Russian Government is to In Southeast Asia, Russia is now providing Indonesia) a draft EAS Leaders’ Statement extend help to whatever extent possible to some assistance to Indonesia, including on Strengthening Collective Capacity in every country which is in need of it. medical supplies and consultations on care Epidemics Prevention and Response that strategy for COVID-19 patients. We are also we hope will be adopted by the 15th EAS Russia provides assistance in different ready in case any other ASEAN Member later this year. The document will focus spheres (from test-kits to large-scale State (including Singapore) requests predominantly on capacity building of medical operations, involving military Russian aid. national health systems and sanitary health personal, providing of laboratories, agencies, as well as sharing best practices. disinfection equipment etc, like it has been We are open to cooperation with ASEAN Russia has also invited ASEAN Member done in Italy and Serbia) to some countries, as one of Russia’s strategic partners. In States to the high-level dialogue on the including China, the USA, and to our partners October 2019 Russia had already conducted COVID-19 topic, which we expect to start within the EAEU and CIS. one round of training for ASEAN experts on in the near future.”

4 OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 AMBASSADOR’S INTERVIEW

Another area I wish to emphasise on is that significant is the laying of the foundation we have established a very good and very stone for the Russian Cultural Center. I hope productive dialogue on security issues. We that by the end of this year or early next year had two rounds of dialogue on this subject at the latest, the construction work will begin. held in Singapore in 2016 and 2019, when It’s very important because this cultural the Secretary of our Security Council, center will bring new opportunities for the General Patrushev visited Singapore and people-to-people contacts between Russia met the Senior Minister and Coordinating and Singapore. It will enable us to promote Minister, Teo Chee Hean, and last October, the Russian language and culture. I think it when Minister Teo also visited Russia and will become a very popular place with many had meetings at the Security Council and Singaporeans who have a growing interest other agencies of the Russian Federation in many things Russian. engaged in security issues. We had also Upcoming Russian Cultural Centre poised to started a dialogue on cyber security. Two You have seen Singapore at very close contribute greatly to promotion of Russian culture rounds of these dialogues took place on quarters in the last five years. What’s your and language. President Putin and President the sidelines at the International Singapore biggest impression of the island? Halimah Yacob unveiling the foundation stone in Singapore in 2018 Cyber Week, and I hope this will continue. I arrived in Singapore on the 7th of April 2015. Our military relations are on a very positive It has been a long, long time but sometimes I track. In April 2016 Singapore Defence feel that I have just arrived! I spent four years in Minister Ng Eng Hen participated in the New Zealand in my previous assignment and V Moscow Conference on International those four years seemed to last longer. Here it’s Security. Subsequently the Senior Minister been five years, but it feels like one year! of State for Defence Dr Mohamad Maliki Osman and also Senior Minister of State Speaking of previous assignments, for Defence Heng Chee How made visits many might not know that you speak to Moscow on similar occasions. Russia Vietnamese! participates in the Shangri La Dialogue meetings regularly, which also enable us to Yes, I spent many years in Vietnam in have bilateral meetings on the sidelines at different capacities. During my tenure here, I the Dialogue. Russian Minister of Defense, am still happy to have an opportunity to visit There have been many interactions between General Shoygu visited Singapore for the Vietnam from Singapore whenever I can. Russia and Singapore. (Above): Minister of State, ADMM-Plus meeting in October 2018. Vietnam is a different story but in the context Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Social Dialogue on security issues and military-to- of COVID-19 I was there when SARS hit Asia. and Family Development, Sam Tan was in Russia last October to attend the 8th International military links are very important, and I hope Altogether it’s been more than 14 years. Meeting of Representatives of Member States of that regular visits of Russian Navy ships to the Arctic Council, Observer States of the Arctic Council and Foreign Scientific Community Singapore in recent years will be followed My wife and I enjoy being in Singapore. someday by visits to Russia’s Far East by the It’s a very nice, vibrant place with friendly Singaporean navy! people, with beautiful landscapes and with a lot of opportunities in terms of cultural There have been so many events. Each life, concerts and exhibitions. And we have of them is a highlight. One of the most many friends in Singapore. Of course, we

There have been many bilateral working visits. (Above left) Secretary of the National Security Council of the Russian Federation Nikolai Patrushev meets Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean in Singapore last August tackling common challenges such as terrorism, cybersecurity and transnational crime. (Above right): In October 2019 meeting in Moscow between Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Maxim Akimov to discuss collaboration in the digital and innovation sectors (Photos: Singapore MCI)

OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 5 AMBASSADOR’S INTERVIEW

will miss them. Moscow is different. In terms issue in Russia; for example, we are the of population, it has more than 12 million world’s largest wheat exporter. But of course, people – that’s two and a half times more we are interested in increasing our trade than Singapore. There are many things which with Singapore in the areas of food and cannot be replicated given the nature and products. Presently bilateral trade is mostly the size of these cities, but we should take related to energy – oil and liquefied natural the opportunity to learn from each other. gas will be increasing. But we can play our Moscow and Singapore have close relations role in securing food supplies to Singapore. including cultural links. In 2016 we even had Trade opportunities in foodstuffs have the Moscow Cultural Festival in Singapore. already been started several years ago, and The COVID-19 crisis though has affected our countries exchanged several teams of plans in the short term. Russia did manage experts to inspect the food production to participate in the Chingay Parade. We lines in Moscow. There is interest in buying have participated for the last four years and Russian meat and we are interested in it has become one of the crowd favourites in buying seafood from Singapore. So I think Singapore’s largest street festival. after the pandemic we will start seeing more Russian products on Singapore’s Last November, we held a Moscow business supermarket shelves, much more than session in Singapore which attracted a good what can be seen today. And maybe more turnout with about 100 people attending. caviar supplied by the Russian Caviar The delegation included participants from House in Singapore! Moscow’s construction and public transport sectors. So we learnt from Singapore’s What are your future plans after experience as well as shared our experiences Singapore? in these areas. We have gone further than Singapore in some areas and learnt from I’m sad to inform you that I will retire after Singapore in other areas. going back to Moscow, after a long, long diplomatic career, having been in the So in which areas do you think there will service for 47 years. I have spent almost 30 be opportunities for better cooperation? years in the Asia Pacific altogether now, 14 years in Vietnam, five years in Thailand and I think public transport is a good area four years in New Zealand. of cooperation between Singapore and Moscow and also St Petersburg. After That sounds as if you’re more Asian than (Top): The Russian performers are one of this year’s President Putin’s visit here, there was an Russian! Chingay crowd favourites. (Photo: Michael Ozaki) agreement signed with St Petersburg to look

(Above): On 3rd February 2020 diplomats of the into Smart Urban Transport systems. They I feel that too. I sometimes feel more Russian Embassy in Singapore met with the have problems in terms of traffic congestion comfortable in Asian countries, and I have young performers of The Rovesniki Choreographic and want to learn from Singapore. The many good Asian friends and, of course, I Ensemble from Blagoveschensk (Amur Region of Russia), who took part – for the fourth time in the other areas for closer cooperation are in the will miss them. last few years – in the annual Chingay Parade held education and cultural sectors. Generally, in Singapore on 31st January to 1st February 2020. there are many areas where we have My plans are to spend more time with my Minister-Counsellor of the Embassy Ms Olga Kharla- family. My first and only grandson turned mova extended warm words of appreciation to the common interests and good understanding. talented dancers for the outstanding performance I think that after the pandemic, we will move four years old in this June and my family at the Parade, admitted their significant contribu- faster in developing them with greater needs me. The older generation, my mother tion to the development of cultural cooperation who is 93 and mother-in-law who is 90, with Singapore and wished them further success exchanges between Singapore and Moscow. We have to change our plans to adjust to the need our attention and care. And maybe I new situation. will write my memoirs about my life in Asia.

Every country’s supply chain for the You have a very successful long movement of goods is of great significance marriage and your wife has been with during these difficult times. How has you throughout these postings. In your it affected Russia, a country with huge opinion how easy has it been for her to internal resources, and its exports? Are be a diplomat’s wife? there any new initiatives for procurement between Singapore and Russia right now? Being a diplomat’s wife is a very difficult job, and my wife has done a lot to support We do not face any problems in terms of me in all my endeavours, to be hostess of food security and agriculture is not a critical many events, to promote the image of

6 OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 AMBASSADOR’S INTERVIEW

“Diplomats’ wives have to sacrifice their own careers for family life and their husbands’ dreams. It is difficult to overstate the contribution of my wife, Natalia, to my success, to the success of my missions in different countries.”

Russia and of Russian women. Diplomats’ Counsellor. Today younger people have wives have to sacrifice their own careers for more opportunities in terms of showing family life and their husbands’ dreams. It is their initiatives, being ‘loud’ - not keeping difficult to overstate the contribution of my ideas to themselves. My younger colleagues wife, Natalia, to my success, to the success may come to me at any time to voice what of my missions in different countries. We they think we have to do in this or that area. have been married for 38 years, and she has Before juniors were not recommended always shared the hardships, ups and downs to run too fast, but times have changed. of a diplomat’s life. There have been many Now we appreciate the initiative from the concerns, success, joy and grief. Thank you young people, and we trust them more. It’s very much for touching upon this issue, I no longer that only seniors have a right to value her contribution, and I hope she will speak aloud. (Above): On a personal note, more than deserving play her part in writing my memoirs too! of a heartful tribute: Mrs Natalia Tatarinov - wife of You know looking back, much has begun 38 years You are a seasoned diplomat who has lived to change after Gorbachev came into p (Below): Interviewer Ms Nomita Dhar, Publisher through the period when the country was ower in 1985. We became less conservative, and Editor-in-Chief of Opportunity Russia: “The more advanced looking. The Russia of today Ambassador was very relaxed and composed in the USSR. Now things have changed. How rounding up the story of Russia-Singapore ties has diplomacy changed over the years? is a very different country compared to the during his posting here.” What is your advice to new diplomats and Soviet Union. Today I am grateful that I as what do you think they should do to make well as younger Russian diplomats are given the most of their careers? more freedom in our work and have more opportunities to promote the interests of Of course, diplomacy in the 21st century our country, which is good. But, of course, is different from 20 years ago. Russian the experience and expertise of the older diplomacy today is different. For example, it generation are also indispensable. This is gives more opportunities to young people in why I always try to share my experience terms of honing their skills from a younger with my colleagues on some specific issues age. In my time, there were certain things and different situations. I wish sometimes I that I was allowed to do only after much was younger, but I do not regret anything. experience and promotion up the diplomatic I have lived through a very interesting and ladder to the rank of a First Secretary or challenging period of history.

OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 7 AMBASSADOR’S INTERVIEW Ambassador Tatarinov on Russia-Singapore Trade The Ambassador goes into greater detail about Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) and Free Trade Agreement (FTA) potential as well as cooperation between Russia and Singapore trade bodies

The EAEU, the Russian-led economic alliance of Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, signed a Free Trade Agreement with Singapore during the annual summit of the Supreme Eurasian Council in Yerevanin, Armenia in October 2019. Singapore is the EAEU’s first partner in a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement

ow satisfied are you with the Russian suppliers that could meet the time, it is raising awareness of ACE level of engagement between requirements of the city-state. Acronis, (Action Community for Entrepreneur- Russia and Singapore in trade Kaspersky Labs, GroupIB and Sportmas- ship) and Singapore entrepreneurs Hand FDI? ter have developed here their innovative about doing business in Russia. technologies and top-notch solutions in We have been fairly satisfied with the cybersecurity, cloud data management Secondly, we would like to see more figures of bilateral trade over the last and new materials and are engaged in food products originating from Russia few years as Singapore remains the educational programmes with Singa- in Singapore and vice-versa, in order to leading partner of Russia in South- pore universities and polytechnics. Last bring new flavours to our markets. As a East Asia with the trade turnover year, a Russian company successfully result of active dialogue between the as of US$5.3 billion in 2019. Many installed aero-navigational equipment Singapore Food Agency and its Russian Russian MNCs conduct operations in Changi Airport as a result of a highly counterpart FSVPS (Federal Service for from Singapore - to name a few: Lukoil, competitive tender by Singapore’s Civil Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveil- Gazprom, Novatek, Rosneft, Phosagro, Aviation Authority. I am confident we lance) more Russian and Singapore Eurokhim, Rusal and Rosatom. will be seeing more of such interesting companies have been accredited for However, given the current structure projects in future. the export of meats and seafood. We of trade that relies heavily on oil work closely with exhibitiion organizers products, we are exploring new niches On the other hand, Singapore has also to ensure high Russian representation for trade. There are two areas that we created very favourable ecosystem at local F&B events. Unfortunately, this are concentrating on. startups and scaleups which we are year’s Food Hotel Asia Exhibition was keen to explore. Sistema Asia Capital postponed due to COVID-19. Right now, Firstly, we are aware of Singapore’s (venture capital) and Life.SREDA, (fin- we are inviting Russian companies to demand for best-in-line technological tech) which operate from LaunchPad@ bring canned vegetable, fish and poul- solutions for smart cities, urban man- OneNorth as accelerators and venture try to Singapore as such interest was agement, medical devices, energy- investors, are playing a role in bringing registered by the Russian Trade Com- saving systems and keenness to bring Russian innovators here. At the same mission here.

8 OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 AMBASSADOR’S INTERVIEW

“Firstly, we are aware of Singapore’s demand for best-in-line technological solutions for smart cities, urban management, medical devices, energy-saving systems and keenness to bring Russian suppliers that could meet requirements of the city-state. Acronis, Kaspersky Labs, GroupIB and Sportmaster have developed here their innovative technologies and top-notch solutions in cybersecurity, cloud data management and new materials and are engaged in educational programmes with Singapore universities and polytechnics”

In the field of investment Singapore intellectual and technological potential, has been quite an active player in Rus- we would like to join hands in designing sia. Food Empire and Amtel Properties new standards for Autonomous Vehicles, were pioneers in this field; four region- Artificial Intelligence, Industrial Internet al airports in Krasnodarskiy Krai at the of Things and Big Data. We have already Black Sea and Vladivostok International made the first move towards this goal airport on the Russian Pacific coast are last year when authorities of Russia and managed and developed by Changi Air- Singapore, Enterprise Singapore (ESG) and ports Group. Olam International is the GOST-R (Gosstandard i.e. National Stan- owner of a number of agricultural en- dard, a document attesting that a product terprises in Penzenskaya Oblast and conforms to Russian national standard) Rostovkaya Oblast. Delta Wilmar, in turn, signed an MoU in this field last June. has been expanding its food processing portfolio all over Russia as well. Is ESG/EDB-Russia cooperation set on a new course? At this moment of time we are seeking new channels to encourage further in- Our cooperation with ESG, Economic De- vestments between our countries. velopment Board (EDB) and other Singa- pore agencies has been quite active over Can you also comment about the EAEU- the last 15 years. The starting point was in At the Moscow exhibition stand. Russia had a “real Singapore FTA potential? 2005 when then Minister Mentor Lee Kuan success” at ITB Asia 2019 and the country came with 84 participants. (Photo: Michael Ozaki) Yew and the then Minister of Economic The conclusion of the Free Trade Agree- Development and Trade, Herman Gref, de- menting traffic management and cost- ment between Eurasian Economic Union cided to start Russia-Singapore Business cutting digital solutions. (EAEU) and Singapore on 1 October Forum to rediscover each other’s markets. 2019 was a historical achievement. We This was followed by the establishment of Then, we are promoting Singapore exhibi- are aiming at much closer market con- an ESG (then IE Singapore) office in Mos- tions where companies from Russia can nection between EAEU and Southeast cow to promote Singapore business in capitalize regional capacities of Singapore Asian countries after the FTA’s formal Russia. and introduce their solutions to the mas- ratification. However, prior to that there sive market of South East Asia. Last year is much work to be done, specifically EDB, in turn, successfully attracted a Russia joined the relatively new but very in the finalization of Russia-Singapore group of Russian companies to Singapore. promising Industrial Transformation Asia Agreement on Trade in Services and In- Both agencies (and not only them) have Pacific exhibition where 20 high-tech com- vestments. worked very close together with the Rus- panies presented their solutions for Indus- sian Embassy and Russian Trade Commis- try 4.0. Out of 8,000 visitors at our booth, These two documents will bring new sion after renewal of its activities here in among guests were Singapore’s Deputy trade opportunities for Russian and Sin- 2016. Prime Minister and Minister of Finance gaporean companies. We understand Heng Swee Keat and other high ranking that today Singapore is already promot- Among the results of this solid business official and professionals from A*STAR, ing trade liberalization which results in relationship worth mentioning is the suc- EDB, ESG and Singapore educational orga- zero per cent duties for the majority of cessful development in Russia of Special nizations. Another exhibition, ITB Asia, has incoming goods. Therefore, we believe Economic Zones (SEZ) when IE Singapore been a real success for Russia in 2019 with that the FTA will be a facilitator in such was a consultant from the very beginning 84 participants and five national stands areas as technical regulation, address in 2006. where we brought senior management of trade barriers, promote trade in services Singapore Tourism Board for an excursion. and streamline investment exchanges. Another one is a substantial Smart City Urban Transport Management System Finally, Ministries and Agencies of both A major track of our cooperation under (UTMS) Project which is underway be- countries closely interact on expert and the FTA is the issue of standards. We tween the Government of Saint Peters- high levels within the framework of the are keen to explore and discover new burg and Singapore Cooperation Enter- High-Level Russia-Singapore Inter-Govern- opportunities in the field of standardiza- prise. Once completed, the project will mental Commission to promote practical tion where Singapore has established introduce a brand-new transport system cooperation in various spheres of mutual itself as a regional leader. Given Russia’s geared to address traffic jams by imple- interest.

OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 9 INVESTMENT How RDIF is Investing in the Fight Against COVID-19

President Putin was briefed by Mr Kirill Dmitriev, the CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) on the highlights of its recent success investing in antivirus projects he RDIF is the country’s sovereign The RDIF – many now refer to us as the The international acceptance of this wealth fund that was established Russian antivirus investment fund – has system is confirmed by the fact that we in 2011. Over this time, it has focused on five key spheres of activity: have sold over 10 million test kits to other invested 1.9 trillion roubles in T testing, medicines, medical services, countries after satisfying Russia’s needs. the Russian economy, including 1.7 from vaccines, and accompanying online These countries are buying the tests banks and co-investors. President Putin said that was “a good ratio” and that the services. We have focused on these areas because they know them to be among the RFID investments in various projects have because we believe that they help both best in the world. created favourable and stable conditions maintain the health of Russians and restore for investment as well as a good return. economic activity as soon as possible. We have also invested in another system, which provides for lung X-ray analysis and President Putin: You also use Russian As for testing, we see that many countries detecting the coronavirus promptly and National Wealth Fund money, the main are focused on mass testing. We have precisely using artificial intelligence. reservoir of our financial “safety net,” and invested in the Russian-Japanese testing our reserves, which are also managed system and have become the first Russian As for medications, as you know, at first very efficiently. I would like to discuss all private system registered in Russia. there were absolutely no medicines to these things. But of course, I would like fight the coronavirus, so we focused on to begin with the most important thing: This system is unique because it can give searching for the most effective ones that the fight against the coronavirus. I know the same test in 30 minutes that other would help our doctors protect people. you are involved in this, too. If I remember systems need over two hours for. This is Together with the company ChemRar, we correctly, you and your partners, including important because we have fast results created a new company on a parity basis the Japanese, have created very effective and the equipment can perform three and at a record pace. This new company rapid tests. to four times more tests. This testing started producing Avifavir, a drug that system has been used by leading Russian inhibits virus multiplication. The Ministry of Mr Dmitriev: It is true that you instructed companies and at the beginning of the Health registered this drug last week and us to focus on combating the coronavirus epidemic it gave us an opportunity to now it is the first registered coronavirus and allocate funding to combat the virus. control outbreaks at Phosagro, Sibur and medicine in Russia. Our expert assessment along with that other companies and to provide industrial of our partners helped us to select the health safety. The mobility of it allowed the President Putin: One of two medicines best Russian and global technologies to Ministry of Defence to use it both in Italy registered in the world. counter the coronavirus. and Daghestan.

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Mr Dmitriev: That is right, one of will complete the first three two registered medications in the deals this quarter. world. It was first developed in Japan to treat the flu. ChemRar President Putin: All right. modified it a little and changed But what is your general the treatment guidelines. In fact, assessment of the situation we were the first in the world to in these, frankly speaking, register a drug based on Favipiravir. difficult conditions of As you said, it has become one of countering the infection. How two in the world. We believe this to are your partners responding be a very important achievement to your proposals? because clinical tests indicate that this medication is one of the Mr Dmitriyev: You know, most promising in the world. It will to begin with, they see be sent to Russian clinics as soon Today we announce for the first time that that Russia has taken very as June 11 and will be available to Russians we, Alium, jointly with Sistema Holding, powerful, tough measures. And, of at no cost under the Obligatory Medical and R-Pharm will invest in the production course, we have managed to avoid what is Insurance programme. of two vaccines, along with the Gamalei happening in many other countries. Institute. We believe this vaccine has We are also testing this medicine for shown very promising results. Moreover, Secondly, they are really seeing that the outpatient treatment. First, we will have after it covers Russia’s demands, it could Russian market is in good shape. They 700,000 dose packs per year. However, become a world leader among vaccines. have looked at the economic recovery higher demand – we have requests from plan. They assess it very positively and are ten other countries – will prompt us to In terms of additional online services, willing to continue investing in Russia. produce up to 2 million dose packs per year. we have focused on telemedicine and education. Thus, one of our companies, They are seeing that Russia is motivated Mr President, all of this has been made Doctis, showed that the number of for partnership. We are discussing the joint possible thanks to your support of our requests for telemedicine has grown 20 production of medications and joint efforts activities in developing medicine and of times over, and the number of consulting to produce a vaccine. This makes Russia other areas, as well. To date, only Russia, doctors – tenfold. Today we will also very different from many other countries China, Japan and the US are producing announce a strategic partnership with that are trying to isolate themselves and medicines to treat the coronavirus. Mail.ru to provide online medicine to 10 avoid partnerships. Therefore, all of our million Russian citizens. partners have noted Russia’s interest in We have also established a joint enterprise partnerships. with Rostech’s Nacimbio to produce We have also invested in Uchi.ru, an online virus antibodies based on blood plasma. education service that made it possible President Putin: We are also succeeding in Moreover, together with R-Pharm, we for 8 million school students to receive keeping macroeconomics in working order, will produce a medicine to suppress the high-quality education in these difficult in very good shape. excessive response of the immune system epidemiologic conditions. to the virus. Mr Dmitriyev: Yes, certainly, because our In conclusion, Mr President, I would like debt is much smaller than that of other President Putin: Which results in simply to say that we will continue working countries. This is a good foundation. pneumonia. with our leading international partners, as Inflation has been kept in check as well. you suggested. We will continue investing Mr Dmitriev: Yes. This means we have in Russia’s infrastructure, in part, with our President Putin: Our debt and inflation medicines to treat mild, medium and leading partners. are within the parameters we announced severe phases of the disease. before. Unemployment figures have Last year, we invested 365 billion roubles grown but not as dramatically as in some Regarding medical services, we have with our partners. In the first five months other countries. Therefore, our partners focused on preparing the bed inventory of this year, we have already invested 200 have every reason to continue working at private hospitals. The Mother and Child billion roubles, that is, more than last year. with the RDIF. company has completely repurposed We will continue investing, also jointly the Lapino Hospital, where Russians with the infrastructure fund that is being Mr Dmitriyev: Undoubtedly, Mr President. were treated under Compulsory Health created by the Ministry of Finance, with We think we will be able to invest more Insurance at no cost. your approval. Along with other Russian funds than we did in the past. This is an funds (these are Elbrus Capital, RTP indicator of the success of the Russian Now to the vaccine, Mr President. You have Ventures and Baring Vostok) we allocated economic programme and shows what is said that Russia must develop and start 15 billion for investment in medium-sized happening in the Russian economy. producing a vaccine as soon as possible. companies that were hit by the crisis. We OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 11 INVESTMENT President Putin: Developing ICT as Russia Emerges from COVID-19 Excerpts from a speech by President Vladimir Putin (via video conference) on 10th June 2020 to key members of his cabinet and leaders of the country’s Info Comm Technology (ICT) sector discussing how ICT can help prepare the country in light of the new reality that is evolving now that the world is emerging from the coronavirus pandemic

oday we are going to discuss the the growing demand offered free services developments in the industry that and have ended up in a better position. I largely define the speed, style remember our meeting when we were Tand opportunities of people’s life only setting out on this journey, and at today as well as prospects of the labour that time, a number of business leaders market and the development of cities promised to offer some services free of and territories: telecommunications and charge. They really benefitted from these information technologies. initiatives and expanded their client base.

In Russia, this sphere has about 60,000 Moreover, the restrictions we were organisations, which achieve important compelled to impose motivated and significant results. Russia is a many enterprises and organisations confident world leader in an entire range to reconsider their usual business of parameters such as the development processes and become more proactive of mobile and internet coverage. Russian in introducing digital solutions to improve companies are offering reliable software efficiency. Everyone learned first-hand solutions, which can compete both on the the importance of being responsive and President Vladimir Putin domestic and global market. bold in making use of the far-reaching opportunities offered by digitalisation. The industry’s role and importance were This relates to the business world, as well Participants in the video especially notable during the forced as to government services, education, conference included coronavirus-related restrictions, when healthcare and even everyday life. many enterprises as well as educational Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, and other organisations switched to We need to pick up these digitalisation Chief of Staff of the Presidential online operations, when it was necessary trends and follow the example of the Executive Office Anton Vaino, First to implement state decisions on support companies at the forefront of this process. Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov, for Russian families and entire economic It goes without saying that we need to First Deputy Chief of Staff of the sectors as quickly as possible, to create conditions for accelerating and Presidential Executive Office Sergei implement them using the available and introducing Russian communications and Kiriyenko, Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry user-friendly solutions we have developed IT technology that will lay the groundwork Chernyshenko, Aide to the President jointly. Together, let me repeat this, for creating high-quality sought-after Maxim Oreshkin, Minister of Economic together we have managed to do all of goods and services. Development Maxim Reshetnikov, this, including using advanced information Minister of Finance Anton Siluanov, technologies and the infrastructure that Let me remind you that we have already Minister of Digital Development, has been built by the common effort taken a number of landmark decisions Communications and Mass Media of the state, businesses and innovative aimed at the development of the IT Maksut Shadayev, Moscow Region teams. sector, including as part of the Digital Governor and Head of the State Council Economy National Project. I highlighted Working Group on Communications, I would like to thank Russian a whole series of specific instructions in Telecommunications and the Digital telecommunications companies and my Address to the Federal Assembly in Economy Andrei Vorobyov, Deputy specialists for ensuring the continuous January 2020. They have to be carried Minister of Industry and Trade Oleg operation and high level of popular services out, all of them. We need to be proactive Bocharov, Chairman of the Management when the load has grown so much. and forward-looking and remove various Board and CEO of Sberbank German barriers inherited from the distant past, Gref and heads of a number of ICT Let me note that for the communications while taking into consideration all possible companies. and IT sector the situation we are currently aspects related to ensuring cyber facing was not only a challenging one. In security, and protecting personal rights fact, the companies that sought to satisfy and freedoms, of course.

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Legal Framework First of all, we must work consistently to improve the legal framework, as our colleagues have already said today in different ways and for various reasons, to create conditions for the stable and long-term development of our high-tech companies and enterprises. I would like to ask the Government to prepare proposals on the creation of a highly convenient and, most importantly, competitive management system, including solutions for a comprehensive tax manoeuvre, which has been mentioned today, a manoeuvre that would stimulate the development of our IT industry.

During a meeting (via video conference) on the development of information and communications Second, it is necessary to fully eliminate technologies the barriers to launching and supporting promising ICT projects. In this context, At the same time, we need to be aware the case in the past. On the contrary, we I would like to ask the Government of the challenges this sector and the must create transparent, attractive and and the State Duma to speed up the economy in general are currently facing, competitive conditions for working and for development and adoption of the federal primarily the fact that the real economy implementing forward-looking ideas here law on experimental legal modes: so- had to cut spending on innovation, in Russia. We must provide benefits to called regulatory sandboxes (I think software and related services. We can retain our software and communications someone has already mentioned them see, and the projections show us, that professionals and help them to realise today), when prospective solutions such many companies will not have enough their potential, as well as attract mature as (this has already been mentioned) self- resources to shoulder these development professionals and promising young people driving transport or artificial intelligence programmes due to objective financial from other countries too. in medicine are tested in practice in and economic constraints. compliance with all the safety rules For example, the Digital Breakthrough and requirements. Let me repeat that, In this connection, I would like to ask Contest has been launched by the Russia of course, this should be under strict our colleagues in the Government and – Land of Opportunities NGO to identify oversight, but still provide space for the regions to give priority attention to and promote the development of talented experiments. Of course, there should be supporting the demand for the products people. Last year it attracted 66,000 control, but also the freedom of action of our IT companies, both, and first of all, participants, who have offered over 1,000 for our colleagues. How else can we break on the domestic market, and their export digital solutions for healthcare, education, new ground? It would be impossible. products. We should continue to develop science, logistics, housing and utilities, and offer additional solutions to ensure and the urban environment. Let me also remind you that last year we the streamlined functioning and the approved a long-term AI development further development of this industry. We I would like our businesses, as well as strategy. We need a calculated step-by- are acting likewise in the other industries the federal and regional authorities to step action plan to implement it. I know which we discussed at our meetings, take note of this project, which is a truly that the Government is developing a including automobile and aircraft large-scale event, and to make use of its separate federal project on this, and I manufacturing, and so on. We must prop participants’ designs. would like to ask them to step up this up people’s incomes in these industries work to approve the project and launch it and create new jobs. I hope to be able to In general, I would also like to hear the as soon as possible. hear some practical recommendations opinions of our businesses about the regarding this today. additional solutions for the industry, if Third, today we have received specific any are needed, in particular in the light proposals from industry representatives, Training of Skilled Personnel of the new reality that is evolving now as I have said. I have also said that Key Condition that the world is emerging from the all of them must be examined by the Of course, the training of skilled personnel coronavirus pandemic. Government... This decision would allow is a key condition for the development of businesses to save money, which means the ICT industry. It is professionals and As I have mentioned already, the goal they would make their services more their knowledge and experience that of these actions is to create globally affordable for people. determine the competitiveness of the competitive conditions for the work of our Russian companies, as well as the market IT professionals in Russia, so that they can Friends, let me once again thank you for success of Russian products and designs. realise their creative and entrepreneurial the substantive conversation. I wish you potential here, in our country. success and hope that we will proceed All of us are aware that there is a high in the required direction, at the required degree of mobility in the sphere of I would also like to sum up the results of pace in order to achieve the success that information technology around the world. this discussion and focus on the measures interests us all: businesses, the state and, However, this does not mean that we must that require priority attention and most importantly, our people. “snatch and hold” professionals, as was particularly active implementation.

OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 13 INVESTMENT ESG Sees Great Potential in Russia ENTERPRISE SINGAPORE (ESG) explores how business interests, collaborations and opportunities between Singapore and Russia are expected to change in the light of COVID-19

hat are the COVID-19 (NTU) on material sciences for the cooperation initiatives development of their in-house brands. taken by your agency with The company is also collaborating with WRussia so far? the National University of Singapore’s Singapore and Russia have maintained (NUS) Centre for Ageing to conduct strong trade relations over the years preclinical studies to determine how and we endeavour to continue this specific clothing materials with chemical through and beyond COVID-19. A key modifications could have effects initiative that we are working on is the on human metabolism and enhance EAEU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement healthy ageing and longevity. (EAEUSFTA) Framework Agreement and the Non-Services and Investment Conversely, Singapore companies are Agreement. The Non-Services and also keen to partner Russian companies Investment Agreement of the EAEUSFTA on tech and innovation across several covers market access for trade in goods sectors. via reduction of tariff and non-tariff barriers, as well as other areas that In 2018, Enterprise Singapore and facilitate trade such as competition, Singapore’s Action Community for customs cooperation, e-commerce, Entrepreneurship signed Memoranda environment, government procurement of Understanding (MOUs) with Interview with and intellectual property. As we strive to Russian organisations Sistema Asia, Mr Yogeindran Thiayagarajah, maintain connectivity and sustain global Skolkovo Foundation and IIDF to Regional Group Director, economic growth, this will be a big step explore collaboration in innovation and Middle East & Africa, C&E Europe towards deepening bilateral relations technology. Last year, Sistema Asia & Central Asia, Enterprise Singapore between Singapore and the EAEU bloc, Capital set up an accelerator, Sales of which Russia is the biggest market. Jet Asia, which in collaboration with Mobile TeleSystems (MTS) and Skolkovo, Which are the main Singaporean provides assistance to Singapore-based companies today with operations startups interested in entering Russia. currently in Russia? 10 Singapore startups have joined the Singapore companies that have first two runs of the programme and ventured into Russia have traditionally visited Moscow in November 2019 and been in the natural resource sector. This March 2020. includes companies such as Olam, which is active in the dairy and grains business Singapore companies providing digital and Delta Wilmar, which is in the seeds solutions, such as AIQ and ViSenze and edible oils business. Others have (digital imaging), and Astech (Industry also ventured into the consumer sector, 4.0), have already found partnership such as Food Empire, which is present in opportunities in Russia. In intelligent Russia through its MacCoffee brand. transport, a consortium led by the Singapore Co-operation Enterprise Russia has proven credentials in science (SCE) with companies ST Engineering and technology; do you foresee any Electronics and MSI Global, are working upcoming collaboration in this sector with the St Petersburg government or any recent significant collaborations to introduce a Unified Transport with Russia most recently? Management System based on We have seen an increasing number of intelligent transport systems. Russian technology companies setting up businesses in Singapore. Many see How many companies of Russian origin Singapore as a gateway to Southeast Asia. are currently operating in Singapore and what were the growth trends of For example, Cybersecurity company, the main industry/business sectors GroupIB, set up its headquarters in Russia was engaged in with Singapore Singapore in 2018 as a significant portion before COVID-19? of its revenue is generated from the Asia The Russian business community in Pacific region and Singapore. In the area Singapore is sizable. Notably, it has of research and development, Russian expanded from primarily the natural sports retailer, Sportmaster Group, has resource space, to technology, retail and been collaborating with Singapore’s fund management. More importantly, Nanyang Technological University Russian companies are discovering other 14 OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 INVESTMENT

“A key initiative that we are working on is the EAEU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (EAEUSFTA) Framework Agreement and the Non-Services and Investment Agreement... As we strive to maintain connectivity and sustain global economic growth, this will be a big step towards deepening bilateral relations between Singapore and the EAEU bloc, of which Russia is the biggest market.” ways in which region, as well as Singapore’s the presence of business global financial and financial and professional infrastructure firms familiar can support with these their growth. markets. Russian For instance, in companies can February 2020, take advantage agricommodity of them to company Don set up base in Agro became Singapore from the first Russian which to expand company to and manage their be listed on businesses in the the Singapore ASEAN markets. Exchange. Singapore companies that With a current have experience dip in inves- in the region tor sentiment, are also familiar clubbed with ESG led a Singapore group of startups on a visit to Russia (above) at the Singapore Embassy in Moscow with the diverse travel restric- culture and tions, how is ESG preparing to keep to collaborate with Russian businesses. business landscape, and can be valuable the investor confidence up and have First, in the tech and innovation areas as partners for Russian companies. For tech you planned any new programmes mentioned earlier. Second, collaboration startups, we have a strong ecosystem or initiatives? in more traditional areas such as of community partners who can provide Globally, many countries, including consumer products and services. the right connections, mentorship and Singapore, have put in place travel support for them to kickstart their restrictions in the fight against How can a small and medium enterprise businesses not only in Singapore but COVID-19. Businesses, especially keen on switching industries seek help also the ASEAN region. those in the travel and lifestyle-related in establishing itself in the Russian industries, have been more directly We understand that this is a very market and what sectors would you affected. difficult time for SMEs. There is pressure encourage them to consider? to maintain and keep your businesses As business models and models change While challenging, we see companies afloat, while planning for an uncertain in the post COVID-19 era, some of the pushing ahead with digitalisation and economic future. However, it is tech solutions that have been designed transformation efforts to ensure that important that SMEs continue to quickly for a particular sector can be channeled their solutions and products remain adapt and adjust to the new operating relevant to market needs in the long for new needs. For instance, we are environment as the way businesses term. Many MNCs also remain confident seeing interest in how technology can operate has changed significantly. of Singapore’s long-term prospects facilitate safe distancing or contactless – for example, Hyundai announced transactions in retail. Some of our SMEs Digitalisation will no doubt play an even in end-March that it was building an are looking at how their Bluetooth more important role now. In fact, the open innovation lab in Singapore to or Artificial Intelligence solution can COVID-19 situation has pushed some develop future mobility technologies for achieve these goals. SMEs to accelerate the adoption of expansion into global markets. digital solutions, be it to streamline What incentives does Singapore their backend processes or make it Internationalisation remains on the provide for companies that make it more efficient to work from home. They radar of our companies. Businesses as a regional hub to enter the ASEAN have to start thinking about how to are turning to online means to stay market? integrate their daily activities through connected, participating in virtual We welcome Russian companies to digital solutions, or carry out business seminars and round tables. This enables use Singapore as a gateway to enter transactions online to diversify their us to stay engaged, cover as much the region, and partner our Singapore revenue streams and customer groups. ground as we can and prepare for future companies to do so. Singapore enjoys dealings when we meet in person. strong economic ties with ASEAN, Enterprise Singapore is committed and many Singapore companies have to support businesses to digitalise, Even as we manage the current investments and projects in the region. strengthen and build their current COVID-19 situation, we see the long- Singapore has strong transport and capabilities to deal with more term potential for Singapore companies trading links with other markets in the immediate challenges. OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 15 INVESTMENT Nizhny Novgorod Region Reaches Out for Partners Governor Gleb Nikitin heads a business mission with “the most challenging and unique projects” for Russia. Ambitious scale and opportunities await participation in this region

ast November a business del- In the late 19th to early 20th Century egation from Russia’s Nizhny the region was considered to be the Novgorod (NN) Region visited Sin- financial centre of Russia, maybe even gapore led by its Governor Gleb Europe and, to a certain extent, of the LNikitin. He held a number of meetings world. The prices of some products with Singaporean companies including traded in the world then was decided Surbana Jurong, Resort World Sentosa during the Nizhny Novgorod Fair. In which is the world’s largest marine park; the 20th Century during the Soviet he aslo had a meeting with the Keppel era, it was considered the third most Corporation, which produces offshore significant capital after Moscow and drilling structures for deep sea oil and St Petersburg. Today Nizhny is also gas recovery. considered to be the Nuclear Capital of the world! It is one of the few places A media release issued on the visit said which has the high level of expertise in the delegates will discuss prospects nuclear energy technology and science. for further development of inter- Within the city itself there are about regional relations and cooperation as 60 R&D centres and 11 universities.The they present “the most challenging famous and highly respected Russian and unique projects for Russia” which Academy of Sciences’ Institute of could be implemented together with Applied Physics is also sited in Nizhny. Singaporean companies. Interview with So we have great potential in all these Governor Gleb Nikitin These include territory development spheres and we have to now develop of the Nizhny Novgorod Region projects such as the creation of a IT this potential by increasing the status cluster in the historical part of the of the capital of this region with several Nizhny Novgorod City; a multifunctional iconic landmark projects that will raise cultural and education center; the its profile in areas such as the city’s construction of one of the largest cultural life by creating new spaces and freshwater aquariums in Europe and zones such as a new philarmonic hall, the “Volganarium” as well as the museums etc. Industrial Production Special Economic Zone “Kulibin”, the industrial park in We are not only looking at projects that Dzerzhinsk, and the unique Digital will uplift our cultural and social life, Field technology, which can take but also those that will develop our resource extraction in the Oil & Gas scientific, education, our industries and industry to new high quality levels (see Small to Medium businesses. accompanying box story next page). Were you inspired by any country or Opportunity Russia was able to talk to city to model the development of the Governor Nikitin on the objectives of Nizhny Novgord region? the visit and share more information about the Nizhny Novgorod. This is I was very impressed by Singapore’s Governor Nikitin’s first trip to Singapore rate of development and I was also in his current capacity but he has been truly impressed as well as by what I saw to the city-state before as the Russian at places such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi Federation’s Deputy Minister of Industry and I believe Nizhny Novgord has the and Trade. same potential to develop in a similar way. How does Nizhny Novgorod City stand apart from other places in Russia? What is the scale and estimated costs that you envisage to make your The city will celebrate its 800th development plans a reality? anniversary in 2021 and the region’s size in terms of population is 3.2 million It is approximately US$1.5 billion. and it is very economically developed.

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“Nizhny Novgorod is one of the few places which has the high level of expertise in nuclear energy technology and science. Within the city itself there are about 60 R&D centres and 11 universities.The famous and highly respected Russian Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Applied Physics is also sited in Nizhny”

What is the timeframe of the projects proposed and how quickly can a ABOUT NIZHNY NOVGOROD REGION business be established there? Located almost in the heart of Russia, the region is considered as one of the most economically developed in the country, contributing 1.7% of the I would like to highlight one of our Gross Regional Product of the Russian regions. Its population is 3.2 million. projects that’s akin to creating what The region’s basic industrial branches are automotive industry, metallurgy, we call a big industrial “supermarket.” chemical industry, oil production and other processing industries. The There are different instruments region is a leader in bus production (about 80% of total Russian production), for industrial projects in terms of 40% of Russian trucks, more than 33% of PVC, 43% of steel pipes, more special taxation regulations, financial than 15% of newsprint and 13% of ethylene are produced here. measures to cut investment expenses depending on where you are going e.g. to the Special Economic Zone, or the Innovation Technological Centre or to the territory for social and economic development. There are different regulations for different destinations.

We have already established several industrial parks and a territory for economic development for an IT cluster in the city; these projects can be developed with Singaporean partners very quickly.

Can you give greater details on what are the incentives or factors potential Source: Yuri Lebedev / Wikimedia Commons investors should consider in deciding to invest in Nizhny Novgorod? PROJECTS Recently there has been an event KULIBIN-SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE Pochain ravine with a total area of that has taken place that has been (SEZ) eight hectares. underestimated here - the Free Trade This Industrial Production SEZ is near Agreement between Singapore and the large city of Dzerzhinsk and is CULTURAL AND EDUCATION CENTER the Eurasian Economic Union that was slated to open in 2020. It covers 72.3 Located in one of the most signed (on 1st Oct 2019). Many here hectares and already possesses the picturesque and promising areas - consider this just one of the many that necessary engineering infrastructure Strelka. The center’s total area is have been signed between Singapore so residents can start project 121,276 sq m and will include the and other countries. It becomes part implementation immediately. Expocentre, Exhibition Pavilions, of a great global landscape and many Main activities: Production of philharmonic hall, an education might feel it does not make a great chemical substances and products, centre, hostel, four museums, a difference. pharmaceuticals, rubber and theatre and concert complex. plastic products, products made of Actually before this the EAEU had only composite materials, automotive VOLGANARIUM one FTA and that was with Vietnam and components and logistics. the second one was with Singapore. So This is going to be a large scientific, it is rare and Singapore has always been DZERZHINSK INDUSTRIAL PARK educational and cultural centre on considered as a gateway and is in a Situated next to Kulibin (see above) a 13 hectares plot in Bor city on the strong position to be the meeting point the park covers 100 hectares and banks of the Volga River. The complex for all the countries in the world to be the project is to form a network will also include one of the largest the gateway to EAEU. of engineering and transport freshwater aquariums as well as an infrastructure. Ecology Museum. You asked about special incentives. I suggest one can create a special NN TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DIGITAL FIELD Singapore Industrial Zone as an PROJECT Development of a technology of digitl integrator for all companies interested Development of digital hubs within modelingof the oil and gas field at the in accessing all the other markets in the the centre of this historical city as stage of exploration and output. EAEU. well as an IT cluster in the city’s

OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 17 INVESTMENT Op-Ed: EAEU-Singapore FTA Opens Asia for Russian Businesses by Chris Devonshire-Ellis Singapore’s recent signing up of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) is poised to provide a new, significant outlet for Russian outbound investment into Asia ingapore has one of the most liberal Russian businesses already exporting tax and administrative regimes to these markets might find it in the world and is technically makes profitable sense to do so via advanced and efficient. It is easier a Singaporean subsidiary. It makes Sfor Russian businesses to establish bank no difference if the shareholders are accounts in Singapore than in Hong Russian – as long as the incorporation Kong, for example, although the banks is based in Singapore it is eligible for will conduct the usual ‘Know Your Client’ free trade in ASEAN. protocols. Corporate establishment in Singapore is also relatively quick and easy, Singapore also has FTAs with China and while dealing with regulatory authorities India: the Singapore-China FTA and the is precise and efficient. Singapore-India FTA. Russian nationals can also incorporate a company in Russia also has a double tax treaty (DTA) Singapore to take advantage of these with Singapore, which allows tax relief agreements. They provide significant Chris Devonshire-Ellis in certain trade and service areas and tariff reductions on Singapore-China Chairman and Founding Partner mitigates against the prospects of being and Singapore-India trade. Dezan Shira & Associates taxed in both countries. It’s an especially wise tax-reducing It also permits, through the use of structure when one considers that substituting profits tax for withholding Russia itself has DTAs with many “With Russian exports to tax mechanism, the ability to discount countries in Asia. Often these overlap Singapore already in the profits taxes by 5 to 10 percent through with the DTAs that Singapore has, the charging of IP fees and so on meaning Russia-Singapore-Asia tax US$3.5 billion bracket, (professional advise needs to be taken efficiency mechanisms are relatively to arrange this with the Singaporean straightforward to use. the new Singapore-EAEU authorities). FTA can be expected Singapore can also be used as a base to have a major and The Singapore FTA with the EAEU will to reach out to other markets. These significantly reduce tariffs on products include Australia, which is less than positive impact. Russian traded between Russia and Singapore, a 5-hour flight from Singapore and businesses not already in addition to the other members of the has a DTA with the country. Australia EAEU – Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan runs as a complementary partner to in the market should be and Kyrgyzstan. the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand seriously thinking about Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA), With Russian exports to Singapore which in turn brings New Zealand into claiming their space in already in the US$3.5 billion bracket, Singapore’s free trade tax sphere of the new Singapore-EAEU FTA can be this expanding trade influence. Sri Lanka, already a popular expected to have a major and positive winter home for many Russians, also corridor.” impact . Russian businesses not already has a DTA with Singapore. in the market should be seriously thinking about claiming their space in this The well established Russian export expanding trade corridor. markets of Japan, South Korea, and Turkey have DTAs with Singapore, Singapore Plus Three: while the Singapore-European Union FTAs with ASEAN, China, and Free Trade Agreement was signed India up just a few months ago and is also Singapore has other major advantages shortly to come into force. too. It is a member of the ASEAN regional free trade bloc, and as such enjoys Singapore also provides incentives free trade on most goods and services for foreign-owned start-ups. These between it and Brunei, Cambodia, include tax breaks, lower profits tax Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, rates and other benefits. Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. 18 OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 Continued on page 23... SUCCESS STORIES

More than a Decade of Progress Russia-Singapore Business Council (RSBC) remains busy and successful. The Council’s executives established a company Chairman Mr Nikolay Volobuev The Council’s main office is in RSTRADE in 2016 to implement the wide range of tasks that Moscow with branch offices in are needed for promoting business between both countries Singapore, Samara, Novosibirsk and representatives in Saint Petersburg, he RSBC was an initiative of Council established RSTradehouse LLC Barnaul and Yekaterinburg the Chamber of Commerce in Russia, and in 2017 – the Centre for and Industry of the Russian Overseas Promotion of Russian High- Federation with its first meeting Tech Companies and Presentation of T Since 2016 the RSBC have held on 6th October 2009. Deputy CEO Investment Projects in Singapore. of the State Corporation Rostec, Mr organised and achieved many Nikolay Volobuev was elected Chairman This was considered an important milestones including: with the support of representatives tool to expand the interaction of n 11 business forums held in from the business community, the Russian companies with partners from conjunction with the meetings of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry ASEAN countries in the export-import the High-Level Russia-Singapore of Economic Development and the international B2B Platform with RSTrade. Inter-Governmental Commission Ministry of Industry and Trade of the n 20 conferences and Business Russian Federation. Again, these initiatives were supported Dialogues by the Russian leadership and the n 22 business missions The seeds for that inaugural meeting decision of the Russia-Singapore High- n 14 educational programmes were sown earlier in September Level Intergovernmental Commission. n More than 1,000 business following talks between the President contacts established of the Russian Federation Dmitry RSTrade Platform - A Key Tool n 40 agreements and 15 export Medvedev and the then Prime Minister RSTrade Platform is one of the key tools and import contracts with a of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin and stepping stones to help facilitate total value of more than 17.5 Bln and Minister Mentor of Singapore Lee Russian companies who have an interest roubles signed Kuan Yew took place. in ASEAN markets. Today, there are n More than 300 Russian and more than 83,000 companies from 26 international mass media covering The vision of the leaders was countries and 400 services represented expressed in the mission of the on the RSTrade Platform. the events Council which was, among other objectives, the development of Fully developed in Russia and operated by With the assistance of the Council and business contacts and mutually RSTradehouse LLC, the Platform is inte- the direct participation of its executive beneficial cooperation between grated with the State Industry Information structure, the first agreement and Russia and Singapore entrepreneurs. System and with the CamelONE interna- contracts on high-tech civilian products tional electronic platform (operated by in the SEA countries were concluded The RSBC also sought the enhancement vCargo Cloud, Singapore). and are now being implemented. of the role of interested members of the Russian business community in According to estimates by Bloomberg, Currently, joint engineering projects formation and implementation of the the RSTrade and CamelONE integrated are being implemented at the Centre state policy in the sphere of Russia- solution for the automation of for Overseas Promotion in Singapore in Singapore economic relations. international trade and multimodal the interests of key Russian industrial transport will grow to have global companies, and infrastructure for the It is hoped that the Council can importance in the near future. sale of high-tech civilian products unite efforts and the organization has already been created. The Centre of constructive dialogue between The activities of the Business Council consists of a permanent Showroom to Russia and Singapore business circles, provide the basis for the acceleration of present Russian High-Tech Enterprises interested in sustainable development the Russian presence in the region and products in physical as well as in and improving the efficiency. significantly expand the opportunity digital form. Till date, 25 Russian for Russian companies to use the companies are being exhibited and To implement this wide range of tasks business support infrastructure and over 160 projects are presented in the field of foreign promotion, in development institutions that are at the Overseas Promotion Centre 2016 the executive structure of the operating in Singapore. in Singapore. OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 19 ADVERTORIAL MacCoffee Going Far and Beyond in Russia MacCoffee might have been born in Singapore but it grew so tall it became a household name for instant coffee in Russia. Here is a glimpse of how Food Empire stays on top and visible to become an everyday part of many Russians’ lives

ince Food Empire Apart from the company’s launched its now ubiq- marketing activities, Food Suitous 3-in-1 instant Empire is also committed to MacCoffee into the Russian give back to the community. consumer market in 2018, With the recent pandemic its success was followed outbreak, it is indeed a by its new cappuccino fla- difficult time for the world. vor, the MacCoffee Cappuc- As a way of saying a huge cino Di Torino Cinnamon in “thank you” to all frontliners 2019. Cappuccino Di Torino for keeping everyone else has expanded globally and safe in the fight against is currently selling in East- COVID-19, Food Empire’s ern Europe, Africa and the Russia team has distributed Middle East. The SGX Main- MacCoffee to seven different board-listed company has cities and several hospitals now become a global brand- in Russia to provide all staff ing and manufacturing food “Apart from the company’s marketing activities, one of the simple pleasures and beverage company that Food Empire is also committed to give back to the in life amidst their busy work specialises in instant bever- community. With the recent pandemic outbreak, schedule - having a cup of ages, snack food and frozen it is indeed a difficult time for the world. As a way coffee during their breaktime. convenience food. Food Empire believes that “As of saying a huge “thank you” to all frontliners for long as we stay united and Today Food Empire Holdings’ keeping everyone else safe in the fight against strong, we can beat all odds.” products are exported to more COVID-19, Food Empire’s Russia team Following are more details on than 50 countries in mar- has distributed MacCoffee to seven different the highlights of the above kets such as Russia, Vietnam, events and awards. Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Central cities and several hospitals in Russia to provide Asia, China, the Middle East, all staff one of the simple pleasures in life Boogel Woogel Festival Mongolia and North America. amidst their busy work schedule - having and Grelkafest The Group has 23 offices (rep- a cup of coffee during their breaktime” resentative and liaison) world- The highly-anticipated and wide and operates seven manufactur- Last year MacCoffee was also part of high-altitude Boogel Woogel festival ing facilities in Malaysia, India, Vietnam, Alfa Future People (AFP) 2019, an epic was held at the legendary ski resort, Russia and Ukraine. EDM and dance music festival held in Rosa Khutor, while GrelkaFest was Nizhny Novgorod region. held at the famous Siberian Ski Resort In Russia, the company has not rested Sheregesh, with MacCoffee as an on its laurels and continues to grow MacCoffee has also always been sup- avid supporter of both festivals once and consolidate its dominance in the portive of sporting events and the com- again! Despite the weather conditions, coffee beverage sector of the market pany is honoured to be one of the main more than a thousand skiers and by taking part in many exciting and sponsors of the annual European Figure snowboarders were present and unique projects and appearances. Most Skating Championships and the Ganga- participated in the various activities, recently, it has scored several market- rin Cup for ice hockey. including the beauty pageants! ing collaborations and prominent pro- MacCoffee had its own pavilion motional activities. For the first time in To round off the year the brand was that provided red puffs, VR glasses, history, the brand has been featured in honoured with two prestigious awards wonderful music, cool prizes, grilled several music videos of popular singers that reflected the support and trust its marshmallows, and lots of delicious and bands. MacCoffee also participat- customers have in its products over the MacCoffee Cappuccino di Torino to ed in the hugely popular Boogel Woo- years - such as the highly-acclaimed keep skiers and snowboarders warm gel Festival and Grelkafest, which are Narodnaya Marka and the Product of on the snowy slopes. famous for skiers and snowboarders. the Year Award 2019.

20 OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 SUCCESS STORIES

MacCoffee in Music Videos For the first time in history, MacCoffee is featured in several music videos. The first music video titled Vozmi moe serdce (Take My Heart) is by world- famous DJs Filatov & Karas and Russian artist Burito, and is produced by Warner Music Russia music label. The second music video featuring MacCoffee was released shortly after and was performed by famous Russian band Gayazovs Brothers. Just recently in March 2020, MacCoffee is also featured in the trendy music video by the young Russian pop artist Fogel.

Cappuccino Di Torino Cinnamon This instant cappuccino drink, which includes aromatic cinnamon flakes, is prepared on the basis of the famous recipe from the Italian city of Turin. Now a good cup of cappuccino can be enjoyed anytime and in the comfort of our homes by simply emptying the sachet in a cup, adding hot water and stirring.

Product of the Year 2019 National Award MacCoffee triumphs once again at the Product of the Year 2019 National Award ceremony in Moscow. Every year, the Award Ceremony recognises the most popular FMCG (fast moving consumer goods) products. MacCoffee has won the “Product of the Year 2019” award in the category of “Coffee with milk / sugar / cream additives”.

Narodnaya Marka This year, MacCoffee has once again clinched the highly-coveted “No. 1 Brand in Russia” award title in the category of coffee drinks.

The “Narodnaya Marka” competition is a ranking of leading FMCG brands in the Russian market based on nominations gathered from consumers and the first brand that comes to the minds of consumers. We are pleased to know that MacCoffee is the top choice and a trusted brand among consumers and we thank everyone for their strong support.

(Top & second rows): Promotional activities: Appeal of winter sports and a fun active lifestyle; good times from a cup of MacCoffee at events such as the Boogel Woogel Festival and Grelkfest

(Third row, from left): Sweet Recognition: Product of the Year 2019 National Award; It also clinched the highly-coveted No. 1 Brand in Russia for coffee drinks; Good coffee goes with good music: music video Vozmi moe serdce by world-famous DJs Filatov & Karas and Russian artist Burito

OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 21 SUCCESS STORIES Tatiana Sheremetieva: Exceptional Russian Style & Business Why the CEO of the Russian Asian Business Union is positive and confident about the prospects for business in the immediate post-pandemic period

tarting her working career from and vice versa. There is also great room the tender age of 17 in Russia for development of travel activities Sand having relocated her own between both regions in post- business to Singapore eight years ago, Coronavirus times. entrepreneur Tatiana Sheremetieva- CEO:Russian Asian Business Union Pte What has been your personal Ltd, shares her outlook on business experience in working and living in opportunities post-pandemic, life in Singapore? Singapore and Russia and the growing presence of women leaders in the I have been living and working in arena of business and politics - Your Singapore for over eight years now reading of how business interest will and frankly speaking I love it! With the shape up post-COVID-19 between climate in Russia being pretty tough Russia and ASEAN. because it’s cold most months of the year, it can be very trying. After living What is your reading of how business in Moscow in these conditions all interest will shape up post- Covid-19 year round, ever since my birth over between Russia and ASEAN? 26 years ago, Singapore seems like a paradise to me! I consider Singapore a As history teaches us, all crises are Tatiana Sheremetieva great place to live in, especially if you temporary. My forecast, about the CEO of Russian Asian Business have a family. Singapore is making huge shaping of interest between Russia Union and Russian Singapore efforts to keep the country safe and and ASEAN in post-Covid times, is quite Business Union comfortable for living. The downside positive. However, the intensity of this here, however, is the high price of development of positivity may, in the living when it comes to apartments, short term, be slowed down because of medical or buying a car. That said, I “What’s important travel and border restrictions. Speaking believe Singapore is also a great place about a mid and long-term overview, it for doing business — it’s secure, safe, is the proper would be pertinent to keep in mind that quite straight forward in terms of rules introduction to the Russia remains the biggest country in and regulations and has moderate the world, and that it is rich in natural taxes. Even if the local market is small, right people as it and human resources. The current it’s a good place for setting up a holding pandemic crisis and falling oil prices company, test bed ideas and expand had slowed down Russian economy may open up for you to other SEA and Asian countries. and devalued the ruble, which is an many doors - and in advantage for international trade of Please share how you have been able the long run save commodities. Russia, on the other hand, one must remember is also a large to build linkages between businesses you time and money. consumer and e-commerce market and and how you can help companies post- also, because of its strategic position, pandemic crisis. That’s what we are it is a window to European markets. here for - working There are many components for a ASEAN countries are rapidly growing successful international business: a as a trustworthy markets, which makes it a situation of good product or service, competitive great interest for Russian companies prices, understanding of local culture, agent, or bridge, looking for new opportunities to languages, mentality and necessities. between both capitalize on. When it comes to It’s also extremely important to find Singapore, not only is it a popular a reliable and trustworthy partner, sides” financial and trade hub, it is also a provider or client, as there are still perfect window to the ASEAN and many cases of fraud activities. Asia Pacific regions. During the last Nevertheless, what’s important is, the 10 years I have studied the slow, but proper introduction to the right people, growing increase in interest in ASEAN as it may open up for you many doors countries among Russian businesses — and in the long run also save you time

22 OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 SUCCESS STORIES

and money. That’s what we are here for — working. At 18 years of age I became “I believe Singapore working as a trustworthy agent, or bridge, a brand manager of the Russian between both sides. State insurance company. When I is also a great place was 23 years old I became Deputy We have a group of companies that General Director of a Russian railways for doing business are dedicated to a variety of business subsidiary. But when I turned 25 I — it’s secure, safe, needs, such as legal support, accounting, decided to run my own business. consulting, trade, IT, business events and Eight years ago I relocated to quite straight forward business travel. Singapore, where I founded my group in terms of rules and of companies in legal services, travel, Basically, we take care of the core business events, IT and trade and regulations and has infrastructure — from conducting market investment. More recently, I launched research and setting up a business to a sports academy for adults and moderate taxes. Even finding the right partner and supporting your business development. Because children. My companies today work in if the local market is of our range of activities, we have a big over 15 countries, serving clients from small, it’s a good place database of clients and companies, which around the globe. At the same time I’m greatly helps in building linkages between a happy wife and mother. for setting up a holding businesses. In the pre-pandemic scenario we used to organize conferences, road What I see happening globally is company, test bed shows, seminars and also took active part that more and more women tend to ideas and expand to in business forums — all of which also go into business. There are plenty help in developing a trustworthy business of examples of women leading other SEA and Asian community. companies or even countries, while simultaneously juggling their roles countries” Please share, in brief, your own history as wives and mothers. In Russia too as a woman entrepreneur and trends you I see a similar trend. However, I see for Russian women in enterprise. would mention that society is still more traditionally oriented toward I was 17 years old when I started men as breadwinners.

...continued from page 18

Singapore is a primary investment destination for Russian businesses and investors looking at Asia, as it possesses a reputation for excellent regulatory and financial services, together with superb infrastructure and ease of doing business rankings. It is currently ranked second globally according to World Bank data.

Singapore’s plethora of DTAs and FTAs are complementary to those that Russia also has throughout the region, and this means it is also an excellent Asian headquarters for Russian businesses that are looking at investing in the manufacturing or services industries, or taking part in other investment opportunities involved in this will be limited – many elsewhere in Asia. other Russian businesses are already This article was originally published in the market and competition will by Russia Briefing and re-posted in This will only increase and expand only increase. the total trade volume in the Russia- ASEAN Briefing in October 2019. ASEAN Briefing is produced by Dezan Singapore trade corridor, as pending Like all capital markets, it is the best- deals such as the Singapore-EAEU FTA Shira & Associates. The firm assists established and entrenched that will foreign investors throughout Asia and and the Singapore-EU FTA come into prosper the most – meaning now is effect. maintains offices throughout ASEAN, the time for Russian businesses to including in Singapore, Hanoi, Ho Chi start looking at Asia, giving serious Minh City and Jakarta However, Russian investors must consideration to Singapore as the appreciate that the timescale to get primary destination.

OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 23 ARTS & CULTURE

Russia- Singapore Vibrant Cultural Kaleidoscope by Solovev Aleksandr

(Above): President Vladimir Putin and President Halimah Yacob at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Russian Cultural Centre. (Right): Before the groundbreaking ceremony President Putin reviewing artist impressions of the completed centre which will also house the Russian Orthodox Church

Solovev Aleksandr First Secretary of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Singapore Representative of Rossotrudnichestvo

(Above): Singapore VVIPs including Education Minister Ong Ye Kung and former Foreign Minister George Yeo with Russians in Singapore who were also present at the laying of the foundation stone of the upcoming Russian Cultural Centre at Rangoon Road own the decades, ever since Historically speaking, Russia and Singapore and Russia entered into Singapore have been actively nourishing Da diplomatic arrangement, both the relations between them since the countries have worked hard on many volatile times of the 19th century. In levels to strengthen this mutually- fact, the year 2020 officially marks a beneficial and productive alliance watershed year in this close alliance, — and intrinsic to this agenda has being the 52th Anniversary of the been the close-knit people-to-people formal diplomatic relations between connectivity through a vibrant spectrum both nations. of cultural interfaces. 24 OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 ARTS & CULTURE

“The completion of the Russian Cultural Center with the Orthodox Church in Singapore is expected to vigorously facilitate cooperation in the areas of art, culture and education”

The key features, of this engagement be- In the light of this, already several teams the between the two countries. The Rus- tween the two countries, cover the entire have arrived from Russia to participate in sian embassy in Singapore plans to offer gamut of economic, scientific, technical international festivals being held in Singa- schools in the city-state the opportunity and cultural activities. What’s interesting pore. In addition to this Singaporean audi- to participate in international contests is that in recent years one has witnessed ences have enjoyed the fruits of Russian and festivals that are organized with the a definitive shift in the area of cultural col- film week and the number of music con- support of Russia. Additionally, Russia laboration between Russia and Singapore. certs organized by the Russian embassy hosts a unique campaign to provide citi- There has been a concerted effort to here. The most famous conductors zens of Singapore with the opportunity to expand and enhance communication be- based in Singapore, Darrell Ang and Amos get higher education at any university in tween scientists, artists and sportsmen; Chia, for example, had their training at the Russia and in any specialty on a free-of- also a more robust two-way movement in St. Petersburg Conservatory. In 2018 Sin- charge basis. the field of tourism has begun to develop. gaporeans were treated to a wonderful performance by world renowned Russian In 2017, Nanyang Technological Universi- On the cultural front both Russia and Sin- violist Yuri Bashmet. ty decided to include courses in the Rus- gapore have their very own treasure-trove sian language in its curriculum. Founded of history, heritage and traditions, which Each year the Russian embassy has also by two Russian teachers and educational they can share in order to enrich the de- organized concerts of classical music enthusiasts a school for children – KIT velopment of their relations in this area— in Singapore. It is hoped that with the (Knowledge Intellect Talent), is also be- as also to underpin their mutual interest opening of the Russian Cultural Center in ing actively developed in Singapore. The in strengthening their cooperation and Singapore, the embassy will be able to in- Russian Language center is thriving. Rus- collaborations in the years to come crease the number of concert tours. The sian language courses for both kids and

In the process of nourishing this moti- adults are underway and receiving an vational agenda, in September 2019, a enthusiastic response. Russian Language Singapore-based representative of Ros- for kids and cooperation in education and sotrudnichestvo started working as a professional training may prove to be a member of the Russian Embassy in city- very promising area in the years to come. state. His main goals were to develop these cultural ties, even as he was tasked Of note is Singapore’s interest in Rus- to supervise the design and construction sian methodology for training and eval- of the Russian Cultural Centre and the uating the knowledge of students in Orthodox Church. The completion of the mathematics and natural science. For Russian Cultural Center in Singapore is example, a group of Singaporean high school students took part in the Yaku- expected to vigorously facilitate coopera- (Top row and above): A very prominent area of tion in the areas of art, culture and educa- cooperation between Russia and Singapore has tia International Science Games 2018, tion. been the educational sphere, which has witnessed which included the “Tuymaada” Olympiad a number of activities to engage school students in mathematics, physics, chemistry and Currently, cooperation in the cultural in this cultural interface the between the two computer science, as well as other seg- countries sphere between Russian artists and Sin- ments such as 3D modeling and robotics. Moreover, the National Research Founda- gaporeans is in a state of hectic activity embassy also fields a number of offers tion of Singapore holds the annual Global in order to set things in place for future to hold exhibitions of Singaporean artists Young Scientists Summit to which young developments in the city-state, given the who have studied in Russia. huge growth potential there is for this Russian scientists are also invited. kind of interface. This is particularly en- A very prominent area of cooperation couraging as there is considerable inter- between Russia and Singapore has been est amongst both nations that work on the educational sphere, which has wit- Continued on page 27... this platform of engagement moves for- nessed a number of activities to engage ward quickly. school students in this cultural interface OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 25 ARTS & CULTURE Builder of Worlds: Sergey Lukianenko Russia’s EPIC Fantasy Sci-Fi Writer

Sergey Lukianenko His literary achievements and Arguably Russia’s most success with his Night Watch books popular sci-fi and fantasy and movies have been described author as transforming him from a ‘just famous’ Russian author to now a national ‘landmark’. The latest of his books ‘A Rough Draft’ has ABOUT ‘NIGHT WATCH’ SEXTOLOGY been made into a major movie. The Night Watch fantasy genre novels are about the war between Opportunity Russia had the chance two supernatural groups - the to talk to the author who was in Night Watch, which is dedicated Singapore for the film’s premier last to policing the actions of the Dark Others, and the Day Watch, December which polices the actions of the Light Others.

It is set in contemporary Moscow and is an epic saga spread over six books that chronicles the conflict between mages, vampires and werewolves: The Night Watch (2006), The Day Watch (2006), The Twilight Watch aka Dusk Watch (2007), The Last Watch (2008), the New Watch (2013) and Sixth Watch (2016). The famous fantasy writer met fans and had a lively discussion at a special screening of ‘A Rough Draft’ at the cinema in Suntec City on The first two books were made into 5th December 2019 very successful movies that made ergey’s trip to Singapore was an initiative by Sergey not only a well-known sci-fi the Moscow government and supported by the writer in Russia but a world famous SRussian Embassy in Singapore to promote cultural celebrity with millions of fans. programmes for fellow compatriots and Singaporeans. The 52-year old author also had the chance to meet and talk to the audiences who attended the two full-capacity The first two Night Watch books shows as well as sign autographs for fans. enjoyed massive success after being transformed into movies, and Sergey Sergey told Opportunity Russia that he was very happy was frank in answering how their with the reception of the audience to the new film which success placed some pressure on is the third major title to follow in the footsteps of the him and influenced the writing of phenomenal success of the movies based on his first successive books. He said, “I definitely two books of the Night Watch series (see accompanying felt pressure. There were people who box story). challenge you asking whether those 26 OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 ARTS & CULTURE

...continued from page 25 “A reader new to Sergey’s works can find both wonder and variety. The Night Watch series though is still the best introduction for new readers to the author. This book provides the best example of Sergey’s creative Russia-Singapore Vibrant process and is the most accessible...” Cultural Kaleidoscope writer with a prolific output with almost The representative office of Rossotrud- 50 books to date. The success of Night nichestvo in the Republic of Singapore is Watch showed the potential of his works a unique link in the development of inter- to catapult to stratospheric heights national contacts between the various – the latest is ‘A Rough Draft’ (see regions in Russia and Singapore in the sci- accompanying box story left). entific, technical, cultural, economic, and educational fields. Rossotrudnichestvo Are there any other of his titles that have can also directly organize tours of artists the potential to reach a wider audience of any sphere, film screenings, and mu- through cinema? He feels “There are seum exhibitions. probably two or three novels; the first two that come to mind are Spectrum Another interesting driver in helping nour- and The Line of Dreams. There are very ish this two-way cultural interchange has different genres, the first is a detective been the contributions of Russian repre- story and the second cosmo-fantasy. sentatives of creative professions who Both are from different genres.” live in the Republic of Singapore. It is felt that the Russian diaspora in Singapore A reader new to Sergey’s works can can also play a pivotal role in developing find both wonder and variety. The relations between Russia and Singapore Night Watch series though is still the via this creative medium. For example, best introduction for new readers to these creative souls can organize music ABOUT ‘A ROUGH DRAFT’ the author. This book provides the best lessons where Singaporeans can learn Rough Draft tells of a Russian living example of Sergey’s creative process the techniques of playing the piano, vio- in Moscow who discovers he has the and is the most accessible as it has been lin, cello, flute or classical guitar; then ability to travel to “parallel worlds”. translated into the English, Chinese, there’s also the area of art, lessons in This tale of a seeming multiverse Japanese, German and French languages which can reveal and convey the basics of alternate realities finds the hero among others. of fine art, introduce one to, say, the un- visiting many different versions of derstanding of beauty and various styles Moscow. He eventually discovers The settings for his books have always of the Russian school of painting. The the reason why and who is behind been a combination of something real projects of Singapore’s Russian diaspora the creation of all the worlds which and imaginary. As Sergey travels he is also include a dancing studio, a school of have similar environments and inspired and picks up ideas from the Russian ballet, a ballroom dance studio, seem to be on planet Earth but the places he visits. One unintended effect fencing school, an academy of rhythmic societies and people are different. of his visit here, he shares, is the island gymnastics, a community of bayanists might probably be part of another book and accordionists, and a synchronized setting! Of course, said the author, successes represented the peak of swimming club. the description might be modified but your career? Or can you come up with readers would definitely be able to tell something more or better? So certainly With the opening of the Russian Cultural that Singapore was the inspiration! I felt there were more biases against my Center, the embassy in Singapore plans next book or movies.” to organize joint events which can be a Background platform to talk about the diversity of Sergei Lukyanenko was born in Karatau, Sergey, having shared his opinion on Russian culture, as well as to promote Kazakhstan and now lives and works in his success and its accompanying the development of bilateral relations be- Moscow. A trained psychiatrist, he has pressures, also smiles at the end, tween the two countries. Given the situ- won many awards for science fiction indicating that he has reconciled with ation of social-distancing that has come and fantasy novels. Many of his books these pressures. “Just as Sir Arthur into the force because of the Covid pan- are also bestsellers. He started writing Conan Doyle might have said “ I hate demic and people spending more time in fiction in the late 1980s, making a Sherlock Holmes’, because it was their homes, the Russian embassy on its breakthrough in 1998 with his first Watch so successful, or though JK Rowling official website http://sgp.rs.gov.ru/ru, book, Night Watch, an urban fantasy is always associated with the Harry and also on the official Instagram page novel. In 1999 he became the youngest Potter series she would like to write https://www.instagram.com/rossot_sin- winner of the Aelita Prize for science different genres - I myself try to stand gapore, offers links to all online resources fiction writing and for contributions to apart from all that, as you don’t need of Russian theaters, museums, and edu- the development of the fantasy genre. that kind of pressure in your creative cational projects. Plans are also afoot to Some of his books have been adapted process,” said Sergey. shortly broadcast movies online in English into board and computer games. on the embassy’s website so that people That approach has certainly paid off as The Author’s Official Page can steep themselves in the wonders of Sergey is recognised as an established http://lukianenko.ru/eng/ the culture of Russia. OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 27 TRAVEL DIARY Magical Moscow By Lily Ong Christmas returned for Lily Ong and her five-year-old daughter, Tess, when they travelled to the Russian capital in January. Illuminated under canopies of light, Moscow glows majestically and reads like pages from its historical diary. Although modern in every sense, Moscow evokes an old-world ambience that is nothing short of mesmerising

rue to our minimalist style, symbol similar to one she had my daughter and I landed seen earlier on an Aeroflot air- Tin Moscow with just two craft. “This one has no wings,” carry-ons in January this year. she contrasted. We swiftly made our way to the metro station where I studied No sooner had we exited the the comprehensible route map. station, an elderly lady marched Available for purchase was the up to us. Now, I’ve heard of the Troika card - a reusable con- Babushka, the Russian grand- tactless card that enables one mother, who would not hesi- to travel on the bus, tram, trol- tate to openly call out what she leybus, and metro in Moscow finds disagreeable. As I braced with ease; nonetheless, I wasn’t myself for what’s to come, she inconvenienced without one as smilingly gave me a thumbs-up mobile pay was accepted every- while keeping her eyes glued where we went, including small to my daughter. I thanked her shops, vending machines, and promptly in Russian as the little public transport. one shrugged her shoulders in bewilderment. Upon boarding our train, stran- gers were so quick to offer their To acquaint ourselves with seats that we knew at once our surroundings, we elected we were in a foreign land. In to walk to our apartment. We fact, mothers with accompany- could have done without the ing children seldom find them- sturdy gust of wind at our back, selves without a seat on a Mos- but at least it wasn’t blasting cow train. at us from the front. Across the street, glistening golden domes Smolenskaya Station beamed at us and brought to In less than 30 minutes, we mind what Mr. Lee Hsien Loong pulled into Smolenskaya Sta- had said in the year 2016. “I look tion. If we hadn’t known better, forward to the day when we see we would have thought we had at least one Russian-Orthodox arrived at an art gallery. golden dome in the skyline of Singapore,” the Prime Minister Located eight meters under- had declared. ground with stately marble col- umns, Smolenskaya Station was Since his communiqué, that quite a sight to take in. Images day has drawn nearer. The year of soldiers decorate the walls 2018 saw President Vladimir and pavilions, promptly evoking Putin making his first-ever visit feelings of patriotism for those to Singapore. His visit was well in their motherland. noted not just by the ASEAN leaders who welcomed him ap- The escalator hall was warmly preciatively and enthusiasti- lit both by candelabra on the cally, but a global audience who pylons and lamps beneath its saw that foreign efforts at iso- arches. Even the ceiling was lating Russia has foundered. covered in ornate decorations that divulge stories we craved Sportsmaster Stopover to know. As we craned our necks Having left her gloves behind to admire it all, my daughter at our previous destination, we spotted a hammer and sickle (Top) Lily and Tess enjoy the Moscow winter fairy tale setting. (Above): The Russians celebrate Christmas in January! popped into Sportsmaster in

28 OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 TRAVEL DIARY

(Above): Moscow Historical Museum on Red Square at night (Background): Monument to Prince Yury Dolgorukiy, the founder of Moscow on Tverskaya

OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 29 TRAVEL DIARY

(Above row from l): Grandeur of the Smolenskaya Station; variety of food including kebabs to pelmeni (Russian dumplings) served with smetana (sour cream) Smolenskaya Square to get my daugh- The next morning, I went for my first Starting at Dorogomilovsky Christmas ter a new pair. With all the familiar sports meeting with my daughter in tow. It would Market, we marvelled at a Guinness re- brands from Puma to New Balance, Fila have been much easier to summon a Yan- cord-claiming glowing ball boasting 9.5 km to Skechers, the store reminded me of dex ride, the local ride-hailing service, but of LED lights at 17 m tall. Next to it was a Sports Authority in America, except its I was feeling ambitious and desirous of labyrinth fashioned in a Russian map filled footprint is more international with retail experiencing mass transport in Moscow. with exhibitions dedicated to different ep- outlets in Belarus, China, Ukraine, and Ka- All in all, it must have taken four transfers ochs of Russian history. Many Soviet post- zakhstan as well. The prices were friendly, between trains and buses for a total of 1 ers donned the showcase to take its visi- and we would have loved to grab some hour. The natives on the street were ex- tors back in time. skates, but resisted tagging more weight tremely helpful even if they didn’t always to our luggage. concur on directions. There were many stalls selling traditional Russian Christmas food like the Kholodet, With warm gloves on her hands, my We were a tad early for our meeting and a jellied meat dish, and the Kulebyaka, a daughter and I resumed our journey only needed to shelter from the cold. We locat- crispy puff pastry filled with salmon, on- to be lured into yet another store stra- ed the nearest entrance, but like every- ion, and mushroom. The latter has a his- tegically displaying succulent stacks of where else on the highly secured grounds, tory rooted in the 1800s, when fish was meat on a rotating vertical rotisserie in an access card was required for entry. We an essential part of the pre-revolutionary its glass window. clearly did not look like we belonged, but Russian cuisine as a meat substitute dur- the compassionate security guard let us ing Russian-Orthodox fasting periods. The Döner Kebab came with generous through so that we could avail ourselves servings of fresh vegetables and meat of the restroom. Our chaperon soon came For a city characteristically blanketed in shavings so tender they literally melted and guided us to the meeting place. snow during this time of the year, Mos- in our mouths. Our eyes were inescapably cow was visibly bereft of snow this year. drawn to the rows of sweet pastries di- While the adults went about our conversa- Nonetheless, giant ice slides, referred to vinely paraded. My daughter ordered her- tion at the conference table, my daughter as “Kremlin Hills” by the locals, could be self a long, crispy torpedo-shaped dessert unearthed greater interest in the Christ- found near the grand palace in long slith- that I successfully negotiated a few bites mas tree at a corner. Instead of a train set ers of white. of afterwards. It reminded me of the Torpil one would typically find under an Ameri- Tatlisi in Turkey, except this was filled with can Christmas tree, she found country As our time was short, we had to pass hazelnut chocolate cream. Our bill was a flags encircling the base of the tree. It over our desire to attend an ice ballet per- pleasing RUB 200 with drinks included. didn’t take her long to find the Singapore formance for which Moscow is famous. flag as she waved it in the air and carolled Nonetheless, we chanced upon a rostrum Tummies filled and content, we checked “Count on Me, Singapore” in soft decibels. on Tverskaya Ploshchad where a theatri- into our apartment for a much-needed cal show was live in action. There is noth- and well-rested nap. Our next meeting brought us back to the ing that raises the atmosphere of Christ- city center. My daughter’s tea etiquette mas like a staged fairy tale, and this one In the evening, we met up with local went out the window as soon as she indubitably lived up to its name. After the friends at a Georgian restaurant. There saw the exquisite tea set. Adorned in the show, the affable elf, though not quite as was no specific reason for selecting a popular blue cobalt net design said to be diminutive as portrayed in Christmas tales, Georgian restaurant other than its proxim- inspired by an 18th-century tea service invited my daughter onstage for some ity to where we were. Besides, the tem- belonging to Empress Elizabeth, tea sets complimentary photography. perature had plummeted by the evening, of such motifs were first produced after so we were not up for venturing very far. the siege of Leningrad in the 1940s. We continued to thread our way through charmingly decorated stalls as we ad- Our visit to Georgia a couple of years back It was just as well she kept herself occu- mired Matryoshka dolls (Russian nesting taught us that Kinkhali is a must-have. We pied during the meeting; leaving us undis- dolls), Khokhloma (Russian decorative ate them with our bare hands by sucking turbed, she poured one glass after anoth- painting) toys painted in vivid colours of the juice at first bite. Careful not to burn er for an endless line of imaginary patrons red, black and gold, Orenburg shawls (Rus- our tongues, we did so gingerly. The tough she had to serve. sian knitted lace textile using goat down), tops were deposed off and we counted Russian jewelry and trinket boxes depict- them to determine how many we had Winter Fairytale ing fairytale scenes, and Valenki (Russian each gobbled. I seldom come in first in life, On our last evening, we found ourselves footwear) among a vast assortment of at- but I did this night. wholly mesmerised in a winter fairytale. tractive offerings. 30 OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 TRAVEL DIARY

Many examples of the contrasts of the old and new in Moscow: In the background the Church of Nikolaya Cchudotvortsa Tverskoy

“I look forward to the day when we see at least one Russian-Orthodox golden dome in the skyline of Singapore.” - Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong 2016

Aromas of ginger cookies, waffles, do- These are Russian meat dumplings filled our eyes! My daughter and I have never let nuts, coffee, sausages, and pancakes with garlic, onion, and meat of your choice a day go by without consuming our prized filled the air while we walked, inducing (I opted for beef). Savoury and moulded in addiction, and Russian chocolates rank su- new pangs of hunger. A craving for hot just the right size, these appetisers were preme for us in preference and taste. dumplings hit and our mission became the perfect companions to my soup. My one of combing the market for such. daughter went for the Russian potato and As soon as we got on the train, she mushroom croquette, and to my relief, popped a piece of the confectionary crea- We did locate a dumpling vendor but did not attempt to pick out the mush- tion into her mouth. I cupped one in my the queue was long, so we bid fare- room therein. hands and held it close to my nose. With well to the dazzling, magical Christmas gentle brushes, I warmed it up and in- scene for our onward journey to the air- Right before entering the gate for the haled its luscious aroma deeply. “Surely,” port. Our auspicious star must have fol- Aeroexpress train that would whisk us to I thought, “when Winston Churchill spoke lowed because halfway at Paveletskay the airport in mere 45 minutes for RUB of Russia as a “riddle wrapped in a mystery metro station, we found a restaurant 500, our blessed star kept up its sparkle inside an enigma”, he was referring to one offering Peljmeni! with a chocolate specialty store before of these…” OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 31 ISLAND LIFE Long Beach: Singapore’s Classic Seafood Restaurant Has Come A Long Way First started in 1946, it has become a household name, a must-go-to dining spot for quality seafood and local delights famous among Singaporeans and visitors to the island

A page from the past - the original restaurant at Bedok Rest House

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A Seafood Affair If you haven’t tasted seafood at Long Beach, you haven’t tasted REAL seafood!

Live Geoduck Sashimi with Best Original Black Pepper Crab Golden Stripe Live Lobster Superior Stock Steamboat

Live Southern Australian Lobster Deep Fried Live Estuary Grouper Famous Chilli Crab Sashimi with Superior Stock Steamboat with Mango in Thai Style

longbeachseafood OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020 33 Olam is re-imagining global agriculture and food systems Established in 1989, Olam is a leading food and agri-business supplying food, ingredients, feed and fibre to over 19,800 customers worldwide.

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@Olam @olam_international 34 olamgroup.com OPPORTUNITY RUSSIA 2020