Russia's development is important to the Nordic Region. Norway and Finland share borders with Russia, while the Baltic Sea and the Barents Sea bind the Nordic Region to its largest neighbour. The Nordic governments would like to further develop relations with Russia in order to create growth and stability in Northern Europe. This co-operation is designed to promote democracy in Russia, and to facilitate Russia's participation as an active partner in regional co-operation.
A large part of the Nordic land and sea areas lie in the Arctic region. The Nordic countries are therefore strongly involved in issues that concern this unique and harsh, but also vulnerable area. The Nordic countries co-operate to improve the quality of life for the indigenous people in the northern areas and to promote social and cultural development for the Arctic people. Nordic co-operation also strives to protect the sensitive and characteristic Arctic nature, and to ensure sustainable use of the region's resources, and protection of its biological diversity.
The Nordic Council and Nordic Council of Ministers work with Russia, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania to fight against trafficking and help the victims out of their difficult situation.