Murmansk, March 26, 2025 — Nornickel has signed a strategic agreement at the International Arctic Forum in a bid to improve the quality of life for Arctic communities.

**Head of FADN agency Igor Barinov (left) and First Vice President of Nornickel Nikolay Utkin (right) sign the agreement at the International Arctic Forum. March 26, 2025.**

The agreement, concluded with Russia’s Federal Agency for Ethnic Affairs (FAEA), extends cooperation in supporting indigenous peoples. This initiative highlights the human-centric approach of the forum, titled "People in the Arctic," and reaffirms Nornickel’s role as a key investor in the sustainable development of northern territories.

The new agreement with the Agency allocates 25.5 million rubles (roughly $300,000) to fund initiatives in 2025. These funds will support key projects to empower and develop the potential of indigenous communities.

One of the major social projects backed by the company under the agreement is the “National Competitive Educational Program: Indigenous Peoples of Russia. School of Public Diplomacy”. This program, implemented by MGIMO (Russia’s Foreign Affairs University) for several years with Nornickel’s support, aims to enhance the expertise of indigenous peoples.

From 2020 to 2024, Nornickel carried out a socio-economic development program for the communities of the Taimyr Peninsula, with a total budget exceeding 2 billion roubles. During this period, the company significantly improved living standards in the region. Key areas of support included:

Construction of houses and social infrastructure in remote settlements. Dozens of new homes were built for indigenous families, alongside rural cultural centers and other infrastructure facilities.
Healthcare system development. Modern-equipped paramedic and midwifery stations were established in several Taimyr settlements, providing locals with accessible medical care.
Educational and cultural initiatives. Projects to support schools and children’s centers were launched, internet-based learning was introduced in rural schools, and ethno-cultural events were organized to preserve indigenous languages and traditions.

"For us, the priority in the Arctic is people. By partnering with the state to develop Arctic territories, we aim to enhance the quality of life for northern residents and preserve the unique culture of indigenous peoples. Our long-term program has proven the effectiveness of public-private collaboration for local communities," commented Nikolai Utkin, Nornickel First Vice President.

Igor Barinov, Head of the Federal Agency for Ethnic Affairs, commented: "The primary responsibility to protect the rights of indigenous peoples lies with the state, which sets fundamental legal standards. However, further progress requires expanding voluntary commitments, including through corporate policies."

The signing of the agreement at the Arctic Forum in Murmansk, a major Russian city and port in the northwestern Arctic, marks a significant step, underscoring Nornickel’s strategic role in developing Russia’s North. The company demonstrates its commitment to sustainable development principles. Partnerships with government bodies and active engagement with local communities enable a comprehensive, human-centered approach to Arctic development. This strategy ensures effective growth of the region’s industrial potential and the prosperity of its residents.

Focus on communities: Nornickel inks agreement with Ethnic Affairs Agency at Arctic Forum