ST. PETERSBURG, June 15. /TASS/. This year’s GDP growth rates in Russia may turn out to be higher than the official projection by the Economic Development Ministry of 1.2%, Minister Maksim Reshetnikov said in an interview aired by the Rossiya-24 TV news channel within the framework of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) on Thursday.

"They (GDP growth rates - TASS) will be higher than our projections, of course, it is already clear. I won’t provide figures, but growth will be apparently higher," he said.

According to the official forecast for Russia’s socio-economic development, GDP growth in the country is expected at 1.2% in 2023 and at 2% in 2024.

The 26th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) - Russia’s showcase annual economic and business event - is being held on June 14-17. 'Sovereign Development as the Basis of a Just World: Joining Forces for Future Generations' is theme of this year’s forum. TASS is the official information partner of the event.

SPIEF’s expanded business program offers attendees the opportunity to participate in more than 140 sessions featuring over 1,000 moderators and speakers, according to event organizer Roscongress Foundation. In line with tradition, Russian President Vladimir Putin will address the plenary session of SPIEF on Friday.