A delegation of Russian officials is visiting Missouri this week, exploring trade and investment opportunities. The Russians’ itinerary calls for talks with business and political leaders in Kansas City, Jefferson City, and St. Louis. Nikolay Sofinskiy, the Russian Consul General for a number of Midwestern states including Missouri, says his country is particularly interested in transportation and energy. But all opportunities are being considered. Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder, who met with the Russians in his office at the State Capitol, likes the transportation and energy ideas that came up during the talks. He says many other opportunities exist. Missouri’s exports to Russia have increased almost 154-percent over the last five years.