Key scientific-research institutes of the Scandinavian countries and international projects conducting research and development of the Arctic

The Arctic region, having tremendous natural resources, is of strategic importance for the Russian Federation. Protection of the Arctic environment, its progressive development, modernization and reorganization of the expeditionary infrastructure as well as scientific research implementation become more effective in close international cooperation. Establishment of strong scientific relationships between research institutes of the Arctic Council States is essential for the achievement of their national and regional goals. This article is concerned with the description of the scientific-research institutes based in Norway, Finland and Sweden, which focus on the study of the Arctic. The paper covers their main objectives, areas of a scientific activity, educational projects arrangement and participation in the Arctic expeditions. The article discusses an existing interaction of the considered scientific institutes of the Scandinavian countries with the institutes and universities of the Russian Federation, investigating the Arctic and Antarctic. This review will allow expanding current ways and outlining new possibilities of collaboration between the countries of the Arctic pool within the Arctic exploration and development. The paper particularly emphasizes on such large international projects as the University of the Arctic (UArctic), the MOSAiC expedition and the International Meteorological Institute (IMI).