Canada and Russia have a productive relationship as vast, resource-rich northern countries. The two nations address political, economic and northern specific issues within the framework of the United Nations, the G-8, the G-20, the Arctic Council, the NATO-Russia Council and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). Canada is officially represented in Russia by an Embassy in Moscow, as well as an Honorary Consulate in Vladivostok. The Russian Federation maintains an Embassy in Ottawa, and consulates in both Toronto and Montreal, as well as an Honorary Consulate in Vancouver. Canada follows the human rights situation in Russia very closely. A number of human rights developments are of concern, including the recent legislation banning the promotion of homosexuality. These developments are troubling and Canada has raised its concerns directly with Russian authorities. The promotion of Canadian values has been and will continue to be featured prominently in our ongoing dialogue with Russia. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Canada and Russia. As the two largest Arctic countries, Canada and Russia share many common opportunities and challenges. We have a long history of cooperation on issues including science, energy, environmental protection and sustainable economic development. We are working together bilaterally, and at the Arctic Council, which Canada will be chairing in 2013, to protect the environment and create the conditions for sustainable development. Culture has a high profile in Russia, where a rapidly developing market presents new opportunities for Canadian cultural goods and services. Canada's cultural relations with Russia are increasingly vibrant. Our artists are gaining popularity in Russia, including Cirque du Soleil, Garou, Diana Krall, Leonard Cohen, Edouard Lock and La La La Human Steps, Robert Lepage and Ex Machina, all of whom had very successful shows in Russia over the past years. Robert Bateman and Bryan Adams attended openings of their exhibits. Angela Hewitt and Marc-Andre Hamelin both have their dedicated audiences. Marshall McLuhan's centennial was celebrated across the country in 2011. His books alongside those by Margaret Atwood, Douglas Coupland, Mordecai Richler, Jacques Godbout are all translated into Russian. "Poets of Quebec", a most comprehensive anthology of French-Canadian poetry also came out of press in 2011.
Weremagnus 
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