Interaction With Local Communities / Social Investment

The Group is committed to developing long-term and positive relationships with the communities within which it operates.

All operations undertake an ongoing and active dialogue with local communities and regulatory authorities, using standard Group policies and procedures and supported by the Corporate Communications department in Blagoveschensk. Dialogue goes beyond Russian regulatory requirements and encompasses international good practice for community engagement.

The Group contributed to the construction of a church in Magadachi

The Group undertakes an active programme of community sponsorship in three key areas:

• Education (RUR 4 million in 2009);

• Culture and sport (RUR 6 million in 2009);

• Healthcare (RUR 6 million in 2009).

Swimming team

Requests for financial support or other assistance are regularly received from local residents and organisations. At present, these requests are dealt with on a case-by-case basis but the Group is currently evaluating the introduction of a Group-wide community investment fund.