Moscow will host an international Arctic forum on Wednesday and Thursday, during which ecologists, politicians and businessmen will discuss the social, economic and environmental problems of the region.

"The Arctic: Territory of Dialogue" is organized by the Russian Geographical Society (RGS).

According to a statement posted on the RGS's website, the forum "will focus on the challenges of climate change, the effects of human activity, issues concerning natural resources and ways to ensure sustainable development in the Arctic region."

"Climate change and anthropogenic impact have made the Arctic ecosystem highly vulnerable, putting the region's sustainable development under threat," Sergei Shoigu, president of the Russian Geographical Society and Russia's emergencies minister, was quoted as saying on the web site.

Russia, the United States, Canada, Denmark and Norway are seeking to assert jurisdiction over parts of the Arctic, which is believed to contain rich oil and gas deposits. The deposits will become more accessible as rising global temperatures lead to a reduction in sea ice.

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, Prince Albert II of Monaco, Iceland's President Olafur Grimsson, Canada's senior Arctic official and head of the Arctic Council Sheila Riordon, French ambassador to Russia Jean de Gliniasty, and other prominent politicians and experts on Arctic are expected to participate in the forum.

RIA Novosti is an official media partner of the forum.