The first of what is envisioned as annual event is being held in Moscow from 23-27 October 2013. It was initiated by European Film Promotion (EFP).

FNE’s Moscow correspondent Nina Boyarshinova caught up with Westwind project director Karen Dix at the debut edition of the event at Moscow’s 35mm cinema:

Karen Dix said: "I can say the numbers for European films in the Russian market are increasing, but in Russia as everywhere you always have to fight against the majors."

EFP's new programme is financially supported by the MEDIA Programme of the European Union (50%) and the participating EFP member organizations, also sales agents’ participation is supported by FSS (Film Sales Support) and every film has support from its own country.

Sales agents selected European art-house films from different countries which have never before been promoted in Russia - it was the main selection criteria, then EFP memebers had to accept the films and final step was for the Russian partner, the art-group, Cool Connections, to make the final selection according to their idea of the Russian audience and their needs.

The films will be screened and presented by their actors and filmmakers in Moscow, also one-to-one-meetings between sales agents and Russian distribution companies have already started. More than 100 Russian buyers have been invited, they can buy not only cinema rights but also TV, DVD etc.

Dix said: "We want to show the films and test the reaction of the public. And on the other hand we want to connect with the Russian agents and open new opportunities for business, It is a b2b event, this is our main focus.."