Greetings from the Chair
Honorable NEAR Members,
Warm greetings from the Republic of Buryatia, the sunniest region of Russia. At this pivotal moment as international relations and cooperation in Northeast Asia are shifting in a new direction, the Republic of Buryatia is honored to assume the chairmanship of NEAR for the 2026–2027 term.
In the vast, shared region of Northeast Asia, multipolar trends are becoming increasingly evident, underscoring the need for a balanced and diverse system of interrelations among countries. Russia has consistently upheld the principle that all nations should participate in major international processes, exercising their rights and influence based on non-political rules to ensure mutual economic development. These very principles form the cornerstone of our activities with NEAR.
As an integral part of Northeast Asia, the Republic of Buryatia is recognized as the heart of Russia’s Oriental culture and Buddhism. Aligned with the nation’s foreign policy priorities, we are actively fostering cultural and economic exchanges not only within our borders but also with neighboring countries that share our history and culture.
The Government of the Republic of Buryatia is firmly to supporting interregional cooperation in key economic sectors across Northeast Asia. We are fully prepared to host NEAR’s flagship events, including the General Assembly, the Senior Officials’ Meeting, and the Subcommittees on Traditional Medicine and Tourism, here in Buryatia.
Today, NEAR brings together 82 full member governments from six countries—China, Japan, the DPRK, the Republic of Korea, Mongolia, and Russia; three associate members from Vietnam, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan; one special member; and five observers. In total, NEAR encompasses 91 regions from nine countries, representing a population of approximately 700 million people bound by shared history, dynamic development, and a common responsibility for the future of this vast region.
I firmly believe that collaborative discussions and joint solutions to pressing issues will strengthen trust and cooperation among our nations and regions, laying the foundation for sustainable development.
I wish all NEAR member governments fruitful activities, innovative ideas, and enduring mutual understanding.
Sincerely, Alexey Tsydenov Head of the Republic of Buryatia
Chair of NEAR