The event attracted 1,795 delegates from 31 countries and territories. The 12 member Vietnamese delegation is taking part in the event for the first time.

Well known Russian and international politicians, experts and businesses will discuss important issues related to the Russian and world economy and analyse trends in regional and international financial markets.

Dozens of exhibitions, seminars and conferences will be held during the three-day event such as the “Russia-ASEAN: Cooperative Experiences” roundtable conference, as well as seminars on Russia-Europe and Europe-Pacific, developing energy complexes, development strategy for Siberia and the Far East until 2025 and border cooperation between Russia and China. 

Various cultural activities will also take place including an international academic music festival, and the presentation of insignias to BEF-7 business partners and other events to mark the 350^th anniversary of Irkutsk.

The BEF was first held in 2000 and has become an important annual political and economic event in Siberia and the Far East.