OREANDA-NEWS. October 20, 2010. Citi, in partnership with OJSC Special Economic Zones, organized a business lunch entitled "Special Economic Zones as a Tool for Foreign Direct Investment in Russia", reported the press-centre of Citi.

The goal of the event was to directly inform prospective investors, who are the clients of one of the largest banks in the world, on the opportunities for business development in special economic zones (SEZ).

Alexander Tyomkin, Deputy General Director of the management company "Special Economic Zones", has introduced the investment portfolio of the existing SEZ and briefed the participants on the key advantages of doing business in SEZ, including tax and customs benefits, available infrastructure, low rents, and land purchase prices.

Mr. Tyomkin emphasized that special economic zones are among the most efficient tools for development of innovative economy and are one of the most promising platforms for implementation of the investment projects.

Heads of the representative offices and top managers of the multinational companies that are already present or plan to develop their business in Russia were invited to the business breakfast.
"Given my extensive successful experience in banking, I understand the role of the global financial institutions in investment decision making. Thus, positive cooperation with one of the leading banks in the world is essential for us", underlined Igor Kosov, General Director of the management company "Special Economic Zones".

Zdenek Turek, President of ZAO Citibank, Head of Citi in Russia & CIS, said: "Citi has always been not only a  banking partner but also an advisor to our multinational clients across the world. We are very supportive to the plans of Russian government to further develop infrastructure through SEZ which offer great opportunities for foreign investors in the field of manufacturing and R&D. We believe that the joint seminar with SEZ will help our clients to generate new ideas for developing their business in Russia".

The management company plans to continue its partnership with Citi in searching and contacting prospective investors in the special economic zones.