Website of the President of Russia: President: TranscriptsPresidential Press and Information Office2024-03-28T17:14:28+04:00http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/feedMeeting with Tver Region Governor Igor Rudenyahttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/737482024-03-28T17:13:33+04:002024-03-27T20:50:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin held a working meeting with Tver Region Governor Igor Rudenya in Torzhok.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/HarH9S3hrhACHQGbD6MVPaH6N3fLF0Hp.jpg" alt="With Tver Region Governor Igor Rudenya." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin held a working meeting with Tver Region Governor Igor Rudenya in Torzhok.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/HarH9S3hrhACHQGbD6MVPaH6N3fLF0Hp.jpg" alt="With Tver Region Governor Igor Rudenya." /> <p>Igor Rudenya thanked the President and the Government for supporting the region, in particular, for the publicly funded loans, which helped the regions
increase their economic development potential. He also pointed out that Western
sanctions had encouraged the national economy not only to build up import
substitution projects but also to work on its technological sovereignty.</p><p>Vladimir Putin noticed a beautiful presentation slide of a historical
bridge across the Volga and a cathedral in Tver. The Governor explained that
the cathedral was built in 1285 and torn down in the 1930s to clear the area
for a park. The cathedral has been rebuilt and opened for service on January 1,
2024. The bridge is a symbol of Tver and features on the business logos of many
companies based in the city.</p><p>Igor Rudenya spoke about the growth of industrial facilities in the region, including thanks to support provided to mechanical engineering, and the development of rail car manufacturing. The region is looking forward to the construction of the Moscow-St Petersburg high-speed railway line, which will
boost the region’s GDP thanks to the construction of the rail line, bridges and engineering structures. Tver groups of companies will also take part in designing and building rolling stock for the high-speed line.</p><p>The region’s economy is expected to flourish thanks to the establishment
of the Emmauss special economic zone as per the President’s instructions. The Governor said that they started building a new plant that will produce
cableways substituting the products of Western companies which have left the Russian market. Woodworking companies, the manufacturing of computers and electric appliances and the food sector are also growing in the region.</p><p>The region has achieved an unprecedentedly low unemployment rate of nearly 0.4 percent. The creation of new high-tech jobs has allowed for retaining both young people and the working-age population. Population decline has decelerated significantly,
notably attributed to the establishment of a regional Ministry of Family and Demographic Policy. Moreover, there has been a rise in the number of large
families.</p><p>In response to the President’s
question regarding the staffing of paramedic and midwifery stations, the governor spoke about the implementation of targeted training initiatives at the medical institute and secondary vocational healthcare educational facilities
across the region. Under this scheme, young people enter into agreements, and district heads or leaders of the municipality hosting the central district hospital decide on their future place
of employment. Participants in this programme receive enhanced scholarships and increased allowances. Additionally, upon completion of their secondary specialised
education, they commit to working for three to five years in the specified region
and medical facility. This programme commenced on September 1, 2023, with
significant outcomes anticipated by 2025.</p><p>The meeting participants also
discussed topics concerning the cultural life of the region. Igor Rudenya
elaborated on the historical significance of cities within the Tver Region,
including Ostashkov, Torzhok, Toropets, the city of Tver itself, Rzhev, and several other historic towns. He also spoke about ongoing efforts in restoring
numerous historical sites, notably the ancient Boris and Gleb Monastery in Torzhok, dating back to 1036–1056. Preparations are underway to mark the 950<sup>th</sup>
anniversary of Toropets this year, with various historical landmarks undergoing
restoration, funded by BRICS.</p><p> The governor noted the large number of industrial
facilities in Torzhok, accompanied by a substantial influx of freight vehicles,
including heavy trucks, traversing the historical centre. However, road
renovation and reinforcement are impeded due to archaeological constraints. Igor
Rudenya asked the President to consider the construction of a bypass road
around Torzhok. Vladimir Putin suggested to elaborate further on this matter.</p> Meeting with Tver Region culture professionalshttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/737472024-03-28T17:14:28+04:002024-03-27T20:05:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>The President held a meeting with culture professionals of the Tver Region.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/iGy9s8XtuJpSn8dBXRGyTm4C4rjBpgoW.jpg" alt="At the meeting with Tver Region culture professionals." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>The President held a meeting with culture professionals of the Tver Region.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/iGy9s8XtuJpSn8dBXRGyTm4C4rjBpgoW.jpg" alt="At the meeting with Tver Region culture professionals." /> <p>The meeting took place on the grounds of the historical Pozharsky Hotel operated by the All-Russian Museum of History and Ethnography, which Vladimir Putin <a href="/events/president/news/73747">toured</a> earlier in the day.</p><p>The meeting was attended by Minister
of Culture Olga Lyubimova, Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Central
Federal District Igor Shchegolev, Tver Region Governor Igor Rudenya, and Presidential Adviser Vladimir Tolstoy.</p><p><b>* * *</b></p><p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin:</b> Good afternoon, friends,</p><p>As you are aware, March 25 marks
Cultural Worker’s Day. I planned to hold this meeting on this particular day,
but in the wake of the tragic events in Moscow, this barbaric terrorist attack,
we have postponed events of this kind.</p><p>Here is what I would like to say in this regard. As the nation's spiritual
backbone that supports our identity, culture obviously plays an essential role
during such crucial, challenging and even tragic times as it gives strength to our people, to every individual.</p><p>I would like to thank you and – as they say in such circumstances – through you, to thank all those who work in this field and devote themselves to this extremely important work. Because this
work – to reiterate, these are not empty words – creates the moral and ethical foundation
of the people’s existence. By this I mean all elements of culture.</p><p>In this regard, I can also say that
whenever we hear someone from the outside talk about cancelling Russian culture
and the culture of the peoples of Russia more broadly, we know we are dealing
with people lacking intelligence. Cancelling culture of an entire nation or a whole ethnic groups – and we have 190 of them in Russia, different nationalities
and ethnic groups, – is unrealistic. Our culture professionals say exactly that
about those who talk about cancelling Russian culture: those people are not very
smart. They use even harsher language despite the fact that they are people of culture,
but they speak the truth. </p><p>Small towns and rural areas are, of course, a special case, and I am well aware of that. First, it is about working
directly with people. Culture is all about working with people. Yesterday, I <a href="/events/president/news/73747">presented</a>
laureate badges, and very young people, young culture professionals, said they
missed the audience, especially during the pandemic. The audiences missed them,
and they missed the audience. It is about directly communicating with people – with
culture bearers, with people who are proud to be part of that culture.</p><p>Your case is an example of direct
communication, close communication – and this is of great importance. Not
everyone living in Siberia can go, say, to the Bolshoi Theatre, or the Mariinsky Theatre, or even to a theatre in Novosibirsk. However, anyone can go to a local library or a local museum, as I just <a href="/events/president/news/73747">did</a>, and feel a part of the history of the nation, your particular region, your small motherland – this is
the place where everything is born. This is the place where true, genuine, strong
patriotism is born, not some jingoism. In this sense, it is a vital mission.</p><p>I would like to thank you all for this.</p><p>I am sure you have many questions
and, perhaps, proposals. Your local leaders and I will now take your questions.</p><p>Please go ahead.</p><p><i><…></i></p> Video address on National Guard Dayhttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/737382024-03-26T20:11:31+04:002024-03-27T00:00:00+04:00 <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/1eEfupwLUdan5XTYZnM7PnmDzaOaLpAR.jpg" alt="Video address on National Guard Day." /> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/1eEfupwLUdan5XTYZnM7PnmDzaOaLpAR.jpg" alt="Video address on National Guard Day." /> <p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin</b>: Comrades,</p><p>Today, Russia marks National Guard
Day. I am happy to extend my greetings to all military personnel and employees,
including civilian employees, of the National Guard, and of course, to the veterans on their professional holiday.</p><p>I want to sincerely thank you for your
courage, loyalty to our Motherland, and glorious military traditions, and for your
contribution to upholding law and order, ensuring the sovereignty and security
of Russia.</p><p>The National Guard undertakes
crucial and weighty tasks, including combatting crime, terrorism, extremism,
and safeguarding the security of vital strategic assets, such as industrial,
transport, and infrastructure facilities. Your effective control over arms
trafficking is also important. </p><p>Working closely with other law
enforcement agencies and special services, you have ensured security during
election campaigns at all levels, including the presidential elections. Your
coordinated efforts have been evident during major events and forums, such as the Games of the Future tournament and the World Youth Festival.</p><p>I want to give a special word of thanks to our comrades serving in Donbass and Novorossiya, in the regions close
to the combat zone. </p><p>I know that you are fighting
fearlessly, often risking your own safety to protect civilians, conduct daring
operations, eliminate enemy subversive groups, and safeguard the state border and military communications and the security of the rear of our troop units and groups.</p><p>We will forever honour the memory of the heroes killed in the noble struggle for Russia and the future of our
people.</p><p>Comrades,</p><p>The high authority of the National
Guard rests on people’s respect and recognition of the importance of your
profession. I am confident that you will continue to make every effort to warrant and strengthen this public trust.</p><p>I wish you continued success. My best wishes to your families, relatives, and friends.</p><p> Happy holiday! Greetings on Russia’s National Guard
Day.</p> Presenting presidential prizes for young culture professionals and for writing and art for childrenhttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/737362024-03-26T22:15:54+04:002024-03-26T18:00:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>A ceremony to present
the 2023 Presidential
prizes for young culture professional and for wiring and art for children and young
people took place in the Kremlin’s St Catherine Hall. </p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/tWNPWYgai1mCIaWA7Lw9mnM5zzT4LSTf.jpg" alt="Ceremony for presenting the Presidential Prize for young culture professionals and the Presidential Prize for writing and art for children and young people. The prize was awarded to Acting Rector of the Moscow State Academy of Choreography Marina Leonova for her contribution to the preservation and development of the traditions of the Russian school of choreography." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>A ceremony to present
the 2023 Presidential
prizes for young culture professional and for wiring and art for children and young
people took place in the Kremlin’s St Catherine Hall. </p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/tWNPWYgai1mCIaWA7Lw9mnM5zzT4LSTf.jpg" alt="Ceremony for presenting the Presidential Prize for young culture professionals and the Presidential Prize for writing and art for children and young people. The prize was awarded to Acting Rector of the Moscow State Academy of Choreography Marina Leonova for her contribution to the preservation and development of the traditions of the Russian school of choreography." /> <p>The ceremony was timed to Cultural
Worker’s Day marked on March 25.</p><p>* * *</p><p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin:</b> Good afternoon, friends,
winners,</p><p>Yesterday, we marked Cultural Worker’s
Day. One of the traditions is the awards ceremony for writing for children and prizes for young culture professionals.</p><p>I would like to emphasise that
culture and its spiritual, ethical, and moral values become increasing
important in today’s difficult, tragic times.</p><p>It is crucial for us to rely on these values of creativity, humanism, and mercy now as we go through hard times
reliving the events of last Friday. They are bringing us together in our
support for all the victims and in our resolve to be strong and united.</p><p>The clear-cut, unequivocal position
of those who serve culture is playing an enormous role in this respect. </p><p>Today your message and opinion,
your creative work itself directly affects how people feel and strengthens
their patriotic sentiment. You preserve and enrich the knowledge and traditions
of Russian culture, its continuity, and make an exceptional contribution to educating and molding the rising generations. In fact, you shape Russia’s
future.</p><p>It is particularly valuable when great,
highly praised masters become mentors for children and young people. One of them is the brilliant and world-famous vocalist Nikolai Didenko. The Bely Parokhod (White
Steamship) foundation he established almost 20 years ago opens up new horizons
for gifted children with disabilities and reveals the talents of children in difficult
circumstances. Mr Didenko, thank you for this important project. I wish your foundation
and its mentees great success. </p><p>Marina Leonova also devoted herself
to the new generations of creators. A guardian of traditions of the great
Russian ballet school, not only does she train future dancing stars but she also
raises compassionate, caring, and responsible people. The Moscow Academy of Choreography that you head is famous
for its educational and socially important initiatives – charity concerts and volunteer actions.</p><p>Director of the Ryazan State
Regional Puppet Theatre Konstantin Kirillov is also distinguished for his
diverse and broad interests. Under his guidance, the theatre has become one of the world leaders in this kind of visual art. This has become a venue where
traditions are cherished while innovations and creative experiments are always
welcome. It hosts the oldest and largest international festival of puppet
theatres and has a successful laboratory for young artists.</p><p>It is important that our celebrated
masters have worthy successors. Clear proof of this is the achievements of today’s prizewinners
for young culture professionals. The outstanding traditions of Russian realism
continue through painter Alexei Kryukov. He is an icon, portrait, and landscape
painter, who created an entire gallery of canvases and frescoes that draw the viewer back to our spiritual origins, to the greatness and valour of military
duty and defence of the Fatherland.</p><p>Celloist Alexander Ramm has become
one of the most famous and popular musicians in today’s Russia. He is a true
virtuoso with a wide repertoire, and his talent invariably captivates the audiences of the best concert venues. But he considers the most important thing
to be his tours in Russia, the opportunity to make philharmonic art accessible
to people in the most remote corners of the country.</p><p>Preserving the heritage of the peoples of Russia is another mission which is essential for our multi-ethnic
country and our entire society. Mengi Ondar, who is both a teacher and a scientist, has excelled in this field. She collects, studies, and actively
promotes the original folklore of her native land, Tuva, making a great
contribution to conserving and developing the ethnic and cultural diversity of our Fatherland.</p><p>Friends,</p><p>Your art, your educational
activities fill the cultural space of Russia with the energy of true
creativity, inspiration, and humanism. You add a new, expressive touch to our
most important traditional values: spiritual and moral ideals, historical
memory, love for the Fatherland and responsibility for its fate. Thank you for your dedicated service to your cause and the great culture of Russia. And, of course, congratulations on winning these prizes. I wish you further creative success, new heights
and achievements. Congratulations.</p><p><i>Ceremony for presenting the winners’
badges.</i></p><p><…></p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Friends, winners,</p><p>Once again, congratulations on your
awards today.</p><p>This is a very good nomination as we
thank for the work, congratulate and decorate people working for the youth and children, and at the same time we decorate those who have just become
outstanding figures of our art and have already achieved results, while at the same time, as one of the winners has said, they are ready, as young culture
professionals, to move on and share their knowledge with children, with the next
generations.</p><p>This is an endless river of creativity, a river of talent that fills the hearts of the peoples of the Russian Federation, the soul of the peoples of Russia, making them invincible,
standing strong and looking to the future. All this is thanks to you, because
art reflects the state of the soul and supports it from the inside.</p><p> Thank you very much. Congratulations.</p> Expanded meeting of the Prosecutor General’s Office Boardhttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/737352024-03-26T22:17:50+04:002024-03-26T14:35:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin spoke at the expanded meeting of the Prosecutor General’s Office Board.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/NKVqp0NSeZkFsu4tb99VAgxAMbOsfHS4.jpg" alt="At the expanded meeting of the Prosecutor General’s Office Board. With Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin spoke at the expanded meeting of the Prosecutor General’s Office Board.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/NKVqp0NSeZkFsu4tb99VAgxAMbOsfHS4.jpg" alt="At the expanded meeting of the Prosecutor General’s Office Board. With Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov." /> <p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin</b>: Mr Krasnov, comrades,</p><p>Let me begin by addressing the recent tragic incident that occurred on March 22, when dozens of our citizens,
including children, teenagers, and women were killed in a brutal terrorist
attack in the Moscow Region. As you know, the perpetrators responsible for this
mass murder have been arrested, and our law enforcement agencies are diligently
investigating the circumstances surrounding this barbaric crime. They are
piecing together the details of the attack, determining the roles and culpability
of each individual involved, and analysing the findings provided by criminalists
and experts. The Federal Security Service, alongside other intelligence
services, is actively addressing pertinent issues in coordination with the National Anti-Terrorism Committee.</p><p>I trust that the prosecutors, within
the scope of their authority, will ensure that justice is served when charging
the accused and during the legal proceedings. It is imperative that the criminals
receive a fair punishment for their actions in accordance with the laws of the Russian Federation.</p><p>In general, safeguarding the safety,
rights, and freedoms of our citizens, as well as upholding Russia’s sovereignty
and promoting law and order, have consistently remained the primary objectives
of state policy. Today, during our annual expanded board meeting, you will
discuss the crucial areas that require our attention this year.</p><p>I want to note the effective role
that prosecutors have played in defending the constitutional, social, and economic rights of our citizens over the past period. They have been
instrumental in combatting extremism and attempts to interfere in our internal
affairs. Prosecutors have steadfastly protected the interests of the state and society
and addressed the concerns of people during personal receptions.</p><p>I want to thank the Russian
prosecutorial corps for their commitment, integrity, and responsible approach
to performing the tasks assigned. In particular I would like to commend the prosecutors working under challenging conditions in the Donetsk and Lugansk
people’s republics, as well as in the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions. Like your
colleagues in the border regions, you are making courageous efforts, despite
the challenging conditions, and performing your duties in a professional way.
You have been assisting individuals in resolving urgent problems and safeguarding their rights and legitimate interests. We will continue to strengthen the prosecutor’s offices in Donbass and Novorossiya, which is
important for their effective integration into the common economic, legal,
administrative, and social space of Russia. </p><p>Comrades,</p><p>This year, the prosecution
bodies should step up their efforts in a number of key areas. First and foremost, we are talking about protecting the rights of citizens in areas such
as labour, social issues, housing, and others. Any issues related to quality of life and well-being of Russian families, as well as every individual, should be
given top priority.</p><p>In particular, you
should ensure that wages, pensions, benefits, and subsidies are paid in full
and on time. Use your broad powers to enforce this. Take a tough stance in cases of breach of legislation related to supporting families, including those
with many children, people with disabilities, retired persons, and children
without parents.</p><p>In my Address to the Federal Assembly, as well as in meetings with soldiers and officers, I have
emphasised the public, moral importance of our joint work to support
participants in the special military operation and their families.</p><p>I urge you to act
decisively: promptly respond to complaints and requests, address any instances
of bureaucratic red tape, pat answers, or direct violations of law. I also ask
military prosecutors to place special emphasis on protecting the rights of military personnel.</p><p>Another top
priority, which I also mentioned in my Address, is the younger generation,
their education, and personality development. As you know, we plan to launch a new national project, The Youth of Russia. Also, it is crucial to intensify
efforts to protect the rights of minors. Do everything possible to protect
children and adolescents from criminal activity and the risks of them being
drawn into criminal or extremist environments. Furthermore, it is the direct
responsibility of prosecutors to regularly and thoroughly inspect educational
institutions and places where children spend their free time to ensure compliance
with safety requirements.</p><p>I have already
mentioned that the most important task of the prosecutor's offices is to control and coordinate law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime.
While there has been only a slight increase in some types of crimes last year,
it is still an increase. I ask you to carefully analyse this trend together
with your colleagues from the Interior Ministry and other law enforcement
agencies. Also, consider implementing a system of additional preventive and anti-crime measures, including supervision of compliance with migration
legislation. The situation in this area, which is very important and of great
concern to millions of people, must be closely monitored.</p><p>In this context, I would like to note that prosecutors supported state prosecution in over 700,000
cases in courts in 2023. I hope that you will continue to professionally and competently assist in making legitimate, grounded and fair decisions.</p><p>I would like to ask
you to strengthen control over ensuring the legality of detention of those
accused and suspected of committing crimes, as well as ensuring the rights of citizens in places of confinement.</p><p>Comrades,</p><p>Today, there is an increased demand to protect the rights of entrepreneurs and all participants in economic life. You understand how important a healthy and efficient economy is
to us. This is always important, but it carries special significance today. We
will consistently continue to pursue our strategic line of removing
administrative barriers and expanding economic freedoms, supporting business
activity, and creating favourable conditions for our companies.</p><p>Let me reiterate
that a competitive and attractive national jurisdiction and reliable guarantees
of property and assets acquired in good faith are the most important conditions
for the country's development, economic growth, and the creation of new jobs.</p><p>As you know, the task has been set to completely transition to a risk-based approach starting
from 2025. Where there are no risks, preventive measures should be applied.</p><p>With this in mind,
prosecution bodies will have to greatly adjust and update their work when exercising
supervisory authority. I would like to ask you to act very carefully and prudently here, alongside the business community. It is necessary to reduce the number of audits of businesses as much as possible and ensure the protection of the rights of citizens and consumers of goods and services. These are two sides
to the same coin. It is necessary to ease administrative pressure, but it is
also important to consider and safeguard the interests of consumers.</p><p>One more important thing.
The work of the Prosecutor General’s Office to return a number of large
enterprises and property complexes to state ownership is another important aspect.</p><p>I would like to express
my position on this matter: there can be no de-privatisation, or nationalisation of the economy.</p><p>The work of prosecutors is justified in those
situations where assets have been acquired in circumvention, in violation, of the law. And, moreover, when they are used to the detriment of the state. I must
emphasise that in every case like this, it is necessary to act strictly in accordance
with law, abiding by clear-cut legal procedures. I would like to ask you to nip
in the bud any attempt to use the powers of the prosecutor's office and other
law-enforcement bodies for personal gain, for exerting pressure on businesses
and being part of economic conflicts rooted in unfair competition or various schemes
related to asset redistribution.</p><p>In general, I expect the prosecutor’s office to be more effective in fighting corruption. Speaking at a recent meeting of the Federal
Security Service Board, I noted the need to focus on protecting the funds
allocated, among other things, for the social sector, the state defence order,
modernisation of the national defence industry, and implementation of national
projects and federal programmes.</p><p>One more extremely important area of your work is
environmental protection, the environmental well-being of the whole country, Russia’s
regions, cities and villages and, hence the quality of life of our people. You know
that this is something our people are worried about as well.</p><p>I hope that the environmental prosecutors will act
persistently and productively within their broad powers, primarily, in combatting illegal dumping and illegal logging. Industrial companies, as well
as housing and utility companies must strictly observe the requirements on reducing harmful emissions into the air and eliminating the discharge of sewage
into water. It is necessary to display the same responsibility in observing the law in specially protected nature conservation areas. I must say that I have recently
noticed tangible progress in this respect. I would like to thank you for this
and ask you not to relax your attention in this critical area.</p><p>Comrades,</p><p>Obviously, the destinies of people, the stability
of the state and its social and economic development depend on a professional approach
to resolving the challenges you face. I am confident that you will continue working
effectively and professionally.</p><p>Thank you very much for your work. I wish you
success.</p><p><…></p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Mr Krasnov, colleagues,</p><p>In conclusion, I will just say a few words.
Obviously, they are of a general nature, but I still think they matter.</p><p>As you now, our country is fighting to defend its
vital interests, its right to independent, individual, sovereign development.
Unfortunately, our ill-wishers, competitors and adversaries have compelled us
to defend these interests by armed force, to fight against those whom they have
armed and trained to fight Russia on the territory of a neighbouring state. Under
the current conditions, everything we are doing in all areas of our life must
be devoted to Russia’s success in this respect. This means, of course, that the prosecutor’s office retains its essential tools for success. We must not allow any
slack in any way. We must tune all government bodies, all citizens of the country
to strict observance of current regulations and laws. </p><p>We must be focused and effective; we cannot
relax in anything. At the same time, the situation is not simple and requires a creative, flexible approach to all areas of regulation. First, as I said in my opening
remarks, we need to focus on support for and assistance to our military
personnel and their families. People should understand and know that the state
protects them when they are fulfilling their duty to the Motherland, risking
their lives. Everything the state has mapped out to support military personnel
must be unquestionably fulfilled. </p><p>Special attention should also be paid to the economy
because it guarantees success in all areas of the nation’s life. There are many
goals to pursue in this respect, but I won’t repeat myself now, I won’t repeat what
I said or what the Prosecutor General said. </p><p>What I would like to emphasise is
that while the prosecutor’s office is primarily focused on ensuring strict
adherence to the law, but I urge you to adopt a flexible approach to economic
challenges. Rather than simply taking an approach of grabbing hold and not
letting in, let us prioritise prevention by advising good-faith economic actors
of potential legal pitfalls in good time. Our task should be to assist people
while ensuring that deliberate violations and embezzlement are strictly
punished.</p><p>We are allocating nine trillion
rubles – a huge amount of money – over the next few years across various
sectors, including increasing defence capability, support for defence
enterprises, as well as the social sphere such as education, healthcare, and science. It is important that we rigorously ensure these funds are used efficiently
and transparently, without any misappropriation. This will ensure they are
directed towards enhancing our economic prosperity.</p><p>Moreover, there is another important
aspect, which is generally social in the broadest sense of the word: it is
crucial for people to feel that the prosecutor’s office is safeguarding their
interests. Justice depends on it, and justice is very important and valued highly in our country. And how well we
manage to ensure social justice, in turn, determines the internal political wellbeing
of Russian society, which includes the preservation of our state and achieving
the goals we set in key areas.</p><p>The responsibility you bear is
immense, and I want to express my gratitude for your hard work last year. I wish you further success.</p><p> Thank you very much.</p> Meeting on measures being taken after the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hallhttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/737322024-03-26T16:55:20+04:002024-03-25T21:35:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>The President held a videoconference
meeting with the heads of the Government, regions, security services and law-enforcement agencies on measures being taken after the terrorist attack in the Crocus City Hall concert venue.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/f28tpbWbNQJAL0aADMekkUXRLUmkr2Jd.jpg" alt="Meeting on measures being taken after the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>The President held a videoconference
meeting with the heads of the Government, regions, security services and law-enforcement agencies on measures being taken after the terrorist attack in the Crocus City Hall concert venue.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/f28tpbWbNQJAL0aADMekkUXRLUmkr2Jd.jpg" alt="Meeting on measures being taken after the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall." /> <p>The meeting was attended by Prosecutor-General
Igor Krasnov, Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Anton Vaino, First
Deputy Chief of the Presidential Executive Office Sergei Kiriyenko, Deputy Prime
Minister Tatyana Golikova, Presidential Aide Maxim Oreshkin, Interior Minister Vladimir
Kolokoltsev, Emergencies Minister Alexander Kurenkov, Minister of Labour and Social
Protection Anton Kotyakov, Healthcare Minister Mikhail Murashko, Finance Minister
Anton Siluanov, Director of the Federal Security Service Alexander Bortnikov, Director
of the Federal Service of National Guard Troops – Commander of the National Guard
Troops Viktor Zolotov, Chairman of the Investigative Committee Alexander
Bastrykin, Moscow Region Governor Andrei Vorobyov, and Moscow Mayor Sergei
Sobyanin.</p><p>* * *</p><p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin</b>: Colleagues,</p><p>First
of all, I would like to express again my deep condolences to the families and friends
of those who perished in the inhuman terrorist attack of March 22, and wish a speedy
recovery to the injured and wounded.</p><p>I would like to thank everyone who saved people and helped the injured in extremely difficult circumstances. In this difficult time, our society showed
an example of true solidarity, unity, and mutual support.</p><p>I know that the victims’ families are
receiving words of sympathy from people of different ethnicities, from all regions
of our country and of all ages, including children and students. Those who planned
this terrorist attack hoped to sow panic and discord in our society but instead
met with our unity and resolve to counter this evil.</p><p>I would like you to report today on the course of the investigation and search to identify all those who are
involved in this terrorist attack and those who ordered and organised it.</p><p>Despite
our overwhelming pain and grief, sympathy, and legitimate desire to punish all perpetrators
of this inhuman atrocity, the investigation must proceed with the utmost
professionalism and objectivity, with no political bias whatsoever.</p><p>We know that the crime was perpetrated
by radical Islamists. The Islamic World itself has been fighting this ideology for centuries. But we are also seeing how the United States is using different
channels to try and convince its satellites and other countries of the world
that, according to its intelligence, there is supposedly no sign of Kiev’s
involvement in the Moscow terrorist attack, that the deadly terrorist attack
was perpetrated by followers of Islam, members of ISIS, an organisation banned
in Russia.</p><p>We know whose hands were used to commit this atrocity against Russia and its people. We want to know who ordered
it.</p><p>We need to obtain
answers to a number of questions in the course of joint work of our security services
and law enforcement agencies.</p><p>
For example, do radical and even terrorist Islamist organisations truly have an interest in launching attacks on Russia now that it supports a fair resolution
of the escalated conflict in the Middle East? And how do radical Islamists, who
present themselves as devout Muslims and follow the so-called pure Islam,
justify committing atrocities and serious crimes during the holy month of Ramadan, which is sacred to all Muslims?</p><p>We will need to answer these and other, more specific and professional questions in order to carry
out an objective investigation into the crime committed in Moscow. One thing is
absolutely clear: the heinous crime committed in the Russian capital on March 22 is an act of intimidation, as I said. </p><p>This leads to the next question: who stands to benefit from it? This act of violence is likely
just one in a series of attempts by those who have been fighting against our
country since 2014, using the neo-Nazi Kiev regime as a pawn. As for the neo-Nazis, it is widely known that they have never hesitated to employ the most
repugnant and inhumane methods to achieve their aims. </p><p>This becomes even
more apparent today, as their much-touted counter-offensive has failed
completely, as acknowledged by everyone and no longer disputed. The Russian
Armed Forces are maintaining the initiative along the entire front line, while
the enemy's efforts to stabilise the front have been unsuccessful.</p><p>Hence the attempts
to infiltrate our border territories and establish a presence there, artillery
attacks, including the use of multiple rocket launchers, on peaceful
residential areas and civilian infrastructure facilities, such as power grids,
and attempts to launch missiles at the Crimean Bridge and the Crimean Peninsula
itself.</p><p>
These bloody acts of intimidation, like the terrorist attack in Moscow, fit
logically into this sequence. Their goal, as I mentioned, is to sow panic in our society while demonstrating to their own people that not all hope is lost
for the Kiev regime.</p><p>
All they need to do is follow the orders of their Western patrons, fight until
the last Ukrainian, obey Washington's commands, endorse the new mobilisation
law, and form something resembling a new version of the Hitler Youth. To comply
with all of this, they will seek new weapons and additional funds, much of which will likely be embezzled and, as is customary in Ukraine today, put into
their own pockets.</p><p>Incidentally, in the 1920s, the Ukrainian nationalists had an organisation called the Union of Ukrainian Nationalist Youth, which later merged with the Organisation of Ukrainian Nationalists.</p><p>
Of course, we must also answer the question of why the terrorists, after
committing their crime, attempted to flee specifically to Ukraine. Who was
waiting for them there? It is clear that those supporting the Kiev regime do
not wish to be implicated in acts of terrorism and be seen as sponsors of terrorism. But there are indeed numerous questions.</p><p>
I would like to receive regular updates on the progress of the investigation.</p><p>
Additionally, please provide information on the federal and regional measures
taken to support the families of those killed and injured, as well as on how
the work of the medical and social services has been organised. We have
discussed these issues with our colleagues many times, but today we will go
into more detail, as agreed.</p><p> Let's get to work. Over to you, Mr
Bastrykin.</p><p><b>Chairman of the Investigative Committee Alexander Bastrykin</b>: Mr President,</p><p>
The Investigative Committee is continuing its active work to investigate the criminal case concerning the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall. The investigation has established the complete timeline of the events that occurred.</p><p>
On March 22, at 6:54 pm, four criminals drove up in a Renault car to the Crocus
City Hall concert hall, where they waited for the audience to arrive.</p><p>
At 7:58 pm, the terrorists armed with automatic firearms opened fire on the visitors outside the Crocus City Hall building.</p><p>After entering the lobby and then the concert hall, they continued to shoot
at everyone they saw, regardless of gender or age.</p><p>Using the gasoline they had brought with them in plastic bottles, they
set fire to the premises and left the building at 8:11 pm. As they drove the car out of the parking lot, they ran over pedestrians – a family with two young children – at high speed. The children were seriously injured and taken to hospital.</p><p>All the attackers were detained in the Bryansk Region during a pursuit
along the motorway leading towards the Russian-Ukrainian border.</p><p>
Two AK-74 assault rifles, over 500 rounds of ammunition, 28 magazines with
ammunition, and bottles with remaining gasoline were found and seized at the scene. The examination of the crime scene is ongoing, involving criminalists
and experts from the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation.</p><p>Additionally, over 200 inspections, searches and seizures have been conducted,
resulting in the seizure of over 1,000 various objects significant to the investigation.</p><p>During the search of the apartment where the accused lived, we found fragments
of fabric and tools used in preparing the attack, along with their fingerprints.</p><p>A Makarov pistol without ammunition and a magazine from a Kalashnikov
assault rifle with 30 rounds of ammunition were found in the criminals' car. We
have scheduled 90 forensic examinations – ballistic, genetic and fingerprint
examinations – on all the seized items, weapons, and ammunition.</p><p>Four perpetrators of the terrorist act have been charged and taken into
custody. All the accused individuals pleaded guilty during interrogation and in court, providing detailed testimony about the circumstances of the crime, the instigators, and the individuals who aided in the preparation of the terrorist
act.</p><p>The investigation
also identified and detained three other people who assisted in the preparation
of the terrorist attack: they provided accommodation in a flat, a car for transportation,
and transported money. A motion has been filed with the court to place them in custody.</p><p>The initial results
of the investigation indicate that the terrorist attack was carefully planned
and prepared. As a result of the attack, 139 people died. Of those, 75 have
been identified as of today. There are three children among the dead. The identification of the deceased continues.</p><p>Out of the total
number of deceased, 137 people were killed at the scene of the terrorist
attack, and two died in medical centres. Forty people died from gunshot wounds,
two people died from a combination of gunshot and cut/stab wounds, and 45
people died as a result of the fire, from exposure to high temperature and combustion products. In addition, 182 people sustained wounds and injuries of varying severity.</p><p>We have commissioned
and are conducting 160 forensic medical and genetic examinations to establish
the cause of death and identify the victims. We have questioned 131 of crime
victims and more than 500 witnesses. According to eyewitness testimony, the hall caught fire as a result of the actions of the accused, who spilled
gasoline, which they brought with them, on chairs and walls and committed
arson.</p><p>In this context,
the investigation is examining the possibility of a breach of safety
requirements and the fire extinguishing system in the Crocus City Hall concert
hall. For this purpose, consoles, electronic units, and control devices of the fire-extinguishing system in the concert hall have been collected. They have
been sent for analysis and to retrieve data on the mode of the fire safety
system operation at the time of the terrorist attack. The contents of the fire
protection system server are being examined by experts. A fire investigation has
been launched to establish the operability and timeliness of response of all
fire safety systems.</p><p>We are working in close contact with operational units of the Interior Ministry and the Federal
Security Service of Russia. We are taking the necessary investigative measures
to identify all those involved in the crime, including those who ordered and organised the attack. The investigation into the case is ongoing. </p><p>This concludes my report.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Thank you.</p><p>Ms Golikova, please.</p><p><b>Deputy Prime
Minister Tatyana Golikova</b>: Mr President, colleagues,</p><p>Following the terrorist attack, 145 people were admitted to medical clinics and hospitals.
Most of them suffered gunshot wounds, multisystem and combined injuries, or were intoxicated by products of combustion.</p><p>In total, 52
patients have been discharged after their condition improved, and they will be
treated at their local outpatient clinics. A total of 93 people, including five
children, continue to receive treatment. Doctors are working hard to save nine
patients, including one child, who are in extremely critical condition; 29 patients
remain in serious condition, another 30 patients are in a moderately grave
condition, and the condition of 25 patients has improved, with doctors preparing
to discharge them.</p><p>The most serious
cases are currently being treated at Moscow-based and federal clinics. Local
outpatient clinics have treated 150 patients to date, and I believe that this
number may change as people who were able to return home are now contacting
medical institutions.</p><p>Psychiatrists and psychologists from the Serbsky Institute, the Federal Medical-Biological
Agency, the Russian Ministry for Civil Defence, Emergencies and Natural Disaster
Relief, from Moscow and the Moscow Region and volunteer psychologists are
helping to provide assistance to the crime victims and their families. </p><p>At the most critical
moment, at least 50 ambulance units, teams of emergency medicine service of the Moscow Region, Moscow, and federal medical organisations were at the crime scene
at the same time. In total, 203 ambulance and air medical service units were rendering
assistance to the crime victims.</p><p>Considering the scale of the attack, we almost instantly allocated 1,500 beds at medical
institutions in the Moscow Region, the city of Moscow, federal medical
institutions of the Healthcare Ministry, the Ministry of Science and Higher
Education, the Federal Medical-Biological Agency, and the Defence Ministry. We
also deployed intensive care, surgical, and burn care facilities. All teams
reported to work and began treating patients.</p><p>Despite an abundant
supply of blood and blood components, the citizens of Russia responded to the tragedy and arrived at donor centres to help the victims of the attack.
According to the Federal Medical-Biological Agency, the country's donor centres
received 11,822 donors and collected 4,624 litres of whole blood and 1,130
litres of plasma. These donor centres continue to function.</p><p>To support the families of those who were killed, perished, or were injured in the terrorist
attack, the leadership of Moscow and the Moscow Region made a decision to provide
lump-sum payments of three million rubles for every person killed or perished, one
million rubles for every person treated or being treated at hospitals and clinics, and 500,000 rubles for those who have been treated at outpatient
clinics. </p><p> The Moscow City Government is making payments to residents
of Moscow and other regions, while the Moscow Region Government is making
payments to residents of the region. The payments are currently underway and will
continue as the documents are received</p><p>In addition, a working group has
been created at the Social Fund and an emergency response headquarters was set
up at the Federal Service for Labour and Employment (Rostrud) to provide assistance
to the injured and the victims’ families. As of today, 22 survivor pensions
have been approved proactively without asking for documents to be provided,
including 19 insurance pensions and three social pensions. The pensions will be
paid as soon as we get banking details from the individuals concerned.</p><p>Outreach work is underway with the families
and friends of the perished concerning the payment of burial allowances and further submission of additional documents for compensation. Similar work is underway
with employers. Work has also been organised to assign payments under
compulsory social insurance against industrial accidents.</p><p>Mr President, assistance will be
provided to the injured and the victims’ families as soon as their names are
identified. We will keep this issue constantly under control.</p><p>I would also like to note that in the first hours after the terrorist attack, volunteers and concerned citizens
joined the relief efforts. On March 23, the We are Together movement launched a fund-raiser effort to help the families of the perished and the people injured
in the terrorist attack. I want to report that the amount of funds raised so
far stands at almost one billion rubles.</p><p>As many as 11,371 volunteers are working
at the spontaneous memorial sites and at the Help Centre. On the day of national mourning for the victims, March 24, and today, March 25, the regions
held rallies calling for unity and demonstrating a sense of involvement in the events. A total of 257,500 volunteers and 1.6 million of our citizens took part
in the rallies.</p><p>Russian businesses joined in as well.
Over 42 transport companies, banks, mobile phone operators, restaurants, major
retail outlets and other businesses helped as best as they could.</p><p>I would like to express my deep
gratitude to our medical professionals for helping the injured, and to our
concerned citizens for coming forward in this difficult hour and helping people
in trouble, thus proving once again that our country is united, and we act as one in the face of the challenging circumstances.</p><p>Thank you.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Thank you.</p><p>We discussed this tragedy during the early hours of March 23. Clearly, just like the first responders from different
emergency services, we must be ready to deal with all kinds of situations. The fact, though, that passers-by and medical workers who are not part of the emergency
services, as well as members of other services, showed up instantly in the place
where they should be and helped the people in need of assistance demonstrates
the maturity of our society and our people’s readiness to stand up for their
interests and to fight for themselves, for their loved ones, and for the people
who need help and support. This is a very important feature of our society
today. You are absolutely right.</p><p>We will come back to this.</p><p>I would now like to listen to what Mr
Sobyanin has to say.</p><p>Please go ahead.</p><p><i>(In his report,
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin discussed the medical and social assistance
provided by the corresponding Moscow services to the people affected by the terrorist attack, as well as the targeted support provided to the victims’ families
who come to Moscow to identify bodies or search for their loved ones.)</i></p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Now, I would like
Mr Sobyanin and Mr Vorobyov [Moscow Region Governor], who will speak next, as well as all of our colleagues from the regions, to be mindful of the following.
Mr Sobyanin mentioned the people who come to identify the bodies of their family members
or visit their relatives who, thankfully, were not injured or were slightly
injured and to take them home.</p><p>My point is that
every member of the public who attended the concert and needs support must
receive it, regardless of where they live, because some families have lost
their primary breadwinners, among other things.</p><p>We need to analyse
every detail of this terrifying crime and provide proper assistance to the people, not just tick the boxes. Please approach it professionally and act with
compassion when supporting those in need.</p><p>Mr Vorobyov, please
proceed.</p><p><i>(In his report,
Moscow Region Governor Andrei Vorobyov spoke about the firefighters and first
responders, the assistance provided by volunteers and businesses, and mentioned
the effort to raise funds to meet the needs of the affected families.)</i></p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Good.</p><p>Colleagues, would
anyone like to add to that, provide additional information, or give an assessment?</p><p>Yes, Mr Krasnov.</p><p><b>Prosecutor General
Igor Krasnov</b>: Mr President, colleagues,</p><p>The terrorist
attack that took place on March 22 highlighted the priorities that need to be
addressed first in order to prevent such tragedies in the future and to help
the victims to the best of our abilities.</p><p>I would like to emphasise that all services have been working as a team 24/7 since the first
hours of the tragedy and continue to do so. We have focused in our work on blocking false information and attempts to incite interethnic and interreligious
conflicts, as well as to spread panic and hatred based on ethnicity.</p><p>At our request, information has been removed from over 200 resources, including accounts on social media platforms such as Odnoklassniki, VKontakte and Telegram, as well
as other websites. In addition to blatant fake stories, a significant amount of unverified information was posted online, contributing to destabilisation. Even
reputable media outlets were guilty of this, and we had to refute such
information and encourage media leaders to rely solely on official sources.</p><p>Priority measures also included assessing the performance of the oversight bodies responsible for inspecting this specific
concert venue, including fire protection and anti-terrorist measures,
compliance with the requirements for equipping security guards at mass attendance
events in accordance with the number of spectators, evacuation measures, and the response time to phone calls from private security guard companies. A full
assessment has yet to be completed, but it is clear that the scale of the terrorist attack was much bigger and didn’t match the provisions of safety laws for such venues.</p><p>Given the significant increase in the level of terrorist threats, the executive authorities of the constituent entities need
to update the safety and security passports for mass attendance venues. We will
do this soon.</p><p>The facility safety and security passport must be updated at least once every
three years in accordance with the corresponding provision of a regulatory act governing security requirements.
One reason to update this passport is changes in the nature of terrorist
threats related to mass attendance venues. The facility safety and security
passport was approved on December 17, 2018, and has not been revised since
then. Unfortunately, it does not take into account the existing terrorist
threats.</p><p>We will also collaborate with the Emergencies
Ministry to adjust the existing computation techniques for safety and evacuation provisions in case of fire. These techniques currently do not
include scenarios of fires during terrorist attacks or similar arson cases.</p><p>The available video
recordings show that the terrorists attacked using the main fire escape routes,
causing people to flee in the opposite direction from the attackers and seek
refuge on the premises.</p><p>Overall, I have
provided all necessary instructions to the prosecutor; the law enforcement
agencies are coordinating their actions, and the investigation into this
criminal offense is being supervised. We continue to take all necessary
measures to assist the crime victims and ensure the rule of law on a 24/7
basis.</p><p>This concludes my report.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Thank you.</p><p>Please thoroughly
review all the points you have outlined. We will meet again soon to discuss
these issues.</p><p>Mr Kurenkov, do you
have any information or comments regarding your work, or may be any suggestions
regarding the statements made by the Prosecutor General?</p><p><b>Emergencies
Minister Alexander Kurenkov</b>: I have something to add, if I may.</p><p>The building was
equipped with an automatic fire alarm system. This system responded to the fire
as expected. There was also a set of four robotised fire-fighting hoses and a software control system, which worked in conjunction with other fire protection
systems. They were activated during the terrorist attack, but the arson
involved the use of flammable substances. According to experts, the system
failed to extinguish the fire due to its large area. This is what I wanted to say.</p><p>We managed to totally
extinguish the fire on wall panels, given the materials they were made of, only
at 6.40 pm today. The search and rescue operations continue. They are expected
to be completed by 5 pm tomorrow.</p><p>This concludes my report.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Thank you.</p><p>I would like to express my gratitude to the employees of the Federal Security Service, the Interior Ministry, the National Guard, and the Defence Ministry, whom I instructed to take all necessary measures to apprehend the criminals. This was
achieved through joint efforts, including the involvement of National Guard and Defence Ministry units.</p><p>We will certainly revisit
all issues and details of this tragedy and discuss them. Regarding the reports,
I ask everyone, as I mentioned earlier, to provide regular updates on the investigation.</p><p> Thank you.</p> Address to citizens of Russiahttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/737032024-03-23T18:18:37+04:002024-03-23T15:30:00+04:00 <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/4GOeWzoqNrhQuu1G4Va1MehOWrQgbrML.jpg" alt="Address to citizens of Russia." /> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/4GOeWzoqNrhQuu1G4Va1MehOWrQgbrML.jpg" alt="Address to citizens of Russia." /> <p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin</b>: Citizens of Russia,</p><p>I am addressing you today in connection with a horrific
and savage act of terrorism, which claimed the lives of dozens of peaceful,
innocent people – our compatriots, including children, teenagers, and women.
Doctors are fighting to save the lives of the victims in critical condition. I am confident that they will do everything within their power, and even beyond, to preserve the lives and health of all those injured. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to ambulance
crews, air ambulance teams, special forces, firefighters, and rescuers, who made
every effort to save lives and rescue people from the gunfire, from the epicentre of fire and smoke, preventing even greater losses. </p><p>I cannot but acknowledge the help provided by ordinary
citizens who, in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, did not remain
indifferent or apathetic and provided first aid and transported the victims to hospitals, working alongside doctors and special agencies’ personnel.</p><p>We will provide the necessary support to all the families whose lives have been affected by this horrible atrocity, to the wounded and the injured. I express my deepest and most sincere condolences to all those who have lost their loved ones. The entire country, all our people
are grieving together with you. I declare March 24 a day of national mourning. </p><p>Additional anti-terrorist and anti-sabotage measures have been introduced in Moscow, the Moscow Region, and all
regions of the country. Our top priority now is to prevent those behind this
bloody massacre from committing another crime.</p><p> Regarding the investigation of this crime and the results of the operational search action, we can currently say the following.
All four perpetrators, who were directly involved in the terrorist attack, all
those who shot and killed people, have been found and apprehended. They attempted
to escape and were heading towards Ukraine, where, according to preliminary information,
a window was prepared for them on the Ukrainian side to cross the state border.
A total of 11 people have been detained. The Federal Security Service and other
law enforcement agencies are working diligently to identify and expose the accomplice
base behind these terrorists: those who provided them with transport, planned
escape routes from the crime scene, and prepared caches with weapons and ammunition.</p><p>The investigative and law enforcement agencies will spare no effort to establish
all the details of this crime. However, it is already clear that we are
confronted not simply with a carefully and cynically planned terrorist attack,
but a premediated and organised mass murder of peaceful, defenceless people. The perpetrators cold-bloodedly and deliberately
targeted our citizens, including our children, with the intent to kill them at close range. Like the Nazis who once carried out massacres in the occupied
territories, they planned to stage a demonstrative execution, a bloody act of intimidation. </p> <p>All
perpetrators, organisers and masterminds of this crime will face fair and inevitable punishment, whoever they may be and whoever directed them. I emphasise once more: we will identify and bring to justice each and every
individual who stands behind these terrorists, those who orchestrated this
atrocity, this assault against Russia and our people. </p> <p>We understand what the terrorist threat means. In this regard, we rely on cooperation with all states that sincerely share our
pain and are ready to really join forces in the fight against a common enemy,
international terrorism and all its manifestations. </p> <p>Terrorists, murderers, those inhumane
individuals who have no nationality and cannot have one, face one and the same
gloomy prospect – retribution and oblivion. They have no future. Our common duty
now, shared by our comrades–in-arms at the front and all citizens of our country,
is to stand united as one. I am confident that we will, for nothing and no one can
shake our unity and will, our determination and courage, the strength of the united people of Russia. No force will be able to sow the poisonous seeds of discord, panic or disunity in our multi-ethnic society.</p><p> Russia has weathered the most arduous, sometimes
unbearable trials more than once, yet it has emerged even stronger. And so it shall
be now, as well.</p> Meeting with permanent members of the Security Councilhttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736982024-03-22T16:18:26+04:002024-03-22T14:25:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>The President held a briefing with permanent members of the Security Council via videoconference.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/c1GCQRn1cQ7qwQsFnSyRyVnSJVHtEGIy.jpg" alt="Meeting with permanent members of the Security Council (via videoconference)." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>The President held a briefing with permanent members of the Security Council via videoconference.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/c1GCQRn1cQ7qwQsFnSyRyVnSJVHtEGIy.jpg" alt="Meeting with permanent members of the Security Council (via videoconference)." /> <p>Taking part in the meeting were Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin,
Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko, State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav
Volodin, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev, Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Anton Vaino, Security Council
Secretary Nikolai Patrushev, Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev, Foreign
Minister Sergei Lavrov, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, Director of the Federal
Security Service Alexander Bortnikov, Director of the Foreign Intelligence
Service Sergei Naryshkin, and Special Presidential Representative for Environmental Protection, Ecology and Transport Sergei Ivanov.</p><p>* * *</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin:</b> Good afternoon, colleagues.</p><p>The first issue on our agenda today concerns measures to combat the spread of neo-Nazi ideas. I will not go into details, as we are aware of what
it is and how important it is in the context of the current events. </p><p>Let’s get down to work. We have two speakers. Let’s begin.</p><p><…></p> Meeting with President of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Alexander Shokhinhttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736932024-03-21T18:42:19+04:002024-03-21T14:15:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir
Putin held a working meeting with President of the All-Russian Public Organisation
Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Alexander Shokhin.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/B6KKYrHHW5i4amaaYxma2zIMSLWo9ZZg.jpg" alt="With President of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Alexander Shokhin." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir
Putin held a working meeting with President of the All-Russian Public Organisation
Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Alexander Shokhin.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/B6KKYrHHW5i4amaaYxma2zIMSLWo9ZZg.jpg" alt="With President of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Alexander Shokhin." /> <p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin</b>: Mr Shokhin, we had a previous arrangement to meet and discuss current issues and, no less important, prospects for cooperation between business associations, the Government, the Executive Office,
and authorities at all levels, so to say, in order to jointly outline future activities
regarding critical business areas. I suggest that we focus on this today.</p><p>To begin with, I would like to hear what
you think about the current business environment.</p><p><b>President of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs
Alexander Shokhin</b>:
First, Mr President, thank you for this opportunity to discuss the current objectives
of economic development and the country’s prospects in the context of the Presidential Address to the Federal Assembly. Without a doubt, it is important
to consolidate and focus the business community on addressing these tasks in the context of the Address and the presidential election.</p><p>Mr President, I would be remiss not
to use this meeting to congratulate you on the record level of support.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>:
Thank you.</p><p><b>Alexander Shokhin</b>: It is also significant that there was a record-breaking turnout. Without
a doubt, this is not only a victory for you personally but also for Russia, as it
signifies the consolidation of Russian society around the national leader and the Supreme Commander-in-Chief.</p><p>This is vital for us, because we have
long-term work plans that go beyond the next few years, or the three-year
period that the Finance Ministry and the Government are focusing on, we have plans
for five, seven, and even ten years ahead. So, continuing a number of national
projects and creating new national projects, which you mentioned in your
Address to the Federal Assembly, is very important for us. We are ready to join
in this work.</p><p>We have a tradition of holding
Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (RSPP) congresses annually.
Thank you, Mr President, for making participation in them a tradition. This
allows us, for one thing, to sum up the results of our joint work and to make
plans for the future. I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to the upcoming RSPP congress, due to be held on April 18. We look forward to your
participation.</p><p>Our plan is to use this congress to determine current priorities based on the country's development strategy.
Moreover, we have been discussing these issues over the past weeks − we hold a Russian
Business Weeks forum in the run-up to the congress. We have recently held 14
forums, and the recommendations from these forums have been included in our
proposals for the congress as well.</p><p>We have put together a 100-point draft
resolution. We have tentatively named it 100 Steps to Economic Leadership. I hope that if members of the Government, the Executive Office, and lawmakers
carefully review our proposals before the congress − they have a month to do
that − the discussions during the congress will be more productive and constructive. I would like to submit our proposals to you.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>:
Thank you.</p><p><b>Alexander Shokhin</b>: With your permission, we will submit them to the Government and the Executive
Office in order to obtain answers to our questions during the congress.</p><p>Mr President, you asked me about the business climate and environment. We conduct annual surveys. I would like to present to you the results of the latest business climate survey. We have come
up with interesting figures.</p><p>Businesses consider that the state
of the business environment in 2023 was about 2.5 times better than in the previous year. That is, in 2022, 14 percent of entrepreneurs rated the business
climate as comfortable and favourable, but last year this figure went up to 38
percent. In my opinion, this is largely due to the fact that we are actively
interacting with the Government and the Presidential Executive Office, as well
as lawmakers. We manage to accomplish a lot, taking into account both the interests of the state and the interests of businesses.</p><p>I will provide several examples of what we have been able to accomplish.</p><p>A year ago, at our congress, we had
an in-depth discussion of Russian businesses’ accelerated return to their
native harbour, that is, Russian jurisdiction, and we proposed a series of bills and regulations that would expedite this process and remove
administrative and financial barriers. A lot of work has been done this year,
and you have encouraged it.</p><p>Finally, now we have all the systemic
solutions that will make it possible to expedite (and are already making it
possible) the return of international companies from various offshore locations
to Russian jurisdiction. They are now becoming Russian international companies.
This work has really been done; there are only a few last-minute touches left.
I hope we will perfect everything in time for the congress. In particular, the issue of personal funds remains, but we hope a draft law will be introduced this
week, since we have agreed on all issues between the Executive Office, the Government, and the State Duma. I think we will be able to report on the work
done.</p><p>Another issue that you raised at the congress a year ago was the establishment of an award for socially responsible
companies. We carried out the necessary work and reviewed the results of this
work at the end of January. Our organising committee was very reputable: there
were ministers, social partners, and representatives of companies and the expert community on it. The organising committee was headed by Tatyana Golikova,
Maxim Oreshkin, and the President of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs.</p><p>Forty-four large companies applied,
and 14 won. We also hope that their awards ceremony – we divided them into
three degrees – will take place at the congress, in your presence. Of course,
this will demonstrate that Russian businesses continue to implement sustainable
development programmes despite the sanctions and restrictions. Previously, we
used a foreign term ESG; that term is gone now, but the work remains.</p><p>We used the most well-proven
indicators, ratings and indices for sustainable development, which were
developed over ten years, including by the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs. The companies’ programmes in the fields of human resources,
territorial development, and technological sovereignty were also assessed. We can
see that this will be a good example for all businesses, since, indeed, we not
only can, but must scale many things.</p><p>Of course, we are facing new tasks
and challenges, though many problems have been resolved or are being addressed.
And we would like to reach a mutual understanding on all of them. In fact, Mr
President, you are ahead of many things. For example, the Personnel national
project is something we were considering; not that we were afraid to say it,
but you had formulated these goals. I mean that, indeed, personnel shortages
are a problem that concerns all industries, all enterprises, whether they’re
large, small, or medium-sized, and individual entrepreneurs too; small
companies face these challenges.</p><p>We believe that a lot depends on the professional education system here. Businesses are investing in professional
education, in particular, projects and programmes like Professionalitet and Advanced Engineering Schools. Companies are participating in them not because
this is a request from the Government or the President, but because they are a form of investment.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin: </b>It is necessary.</p><p><b>Alexander Shokhin: </b>Necessary, yes. And we are ready:
you have set the goal to double the number of programmes and colleges and universities taking part in them.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin: </b>And 30, 20 and then another 50
engineering schools.</p><p><b>Alexander Shokhin: </b>Yes, yes. It is also very important
to develop such tools and mechanisms as reflecting employers’ competency
requirements in training programmes and federal state education standards. We
are actively pursuing this issue.</p><p>Equally, we are thinking about a massive transition to combining final and intermediate state certification with
an independent assessment of qualifications by employers. This experiment is
currently underway at 29 universities. We believe it is time to transition to a full combined certification, where the education track, as they say, is
assessed along with the professional track.</p><p>These issues are being addressed by the Presidential National Council on Professional Qualifications. It will mark
its 10<sup>th</sup> anniversary in a month. Now we would like to expand this
council’s powers somewhat, considering the tasks that you set in the Address as well as the real problems that the economy and employers face. We have prepared
a draft executive order on expanding and deepening the competence of the council. Therefore, we would like to ask you to support this area as well.</p><p>The next problem I cannot help but
talk about is fiscal policy. You stated clearly, both in the Address and recently, when meeting with the party leaders, that predictability and stability in terms of financial burden are needed, but at the same time, of course, social justice must also be taken into account. This applies not only
to personal income taxes, but also to corporate taxes.</p><p>We specifically emphasised, partly at our meeting with you, Mr President, the importance of fairness in tax liability,
suggesting that those who invest more should receive greater tax and investment
deductions. We have a proposal on how to improve the transparency, popularity
and effectiveness of these deductions, ensuring they consider not only
investments in fixed capital but also in social projects, such as environmental
initiatives, community development, and social facilities. We would like to start a dialogue on these matters with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Economic Development, and the Taxation Service.</p><p>This principle extends to personal
income tax as well. We recognise the need for differentiation in personal
income tax, but we advocate that this differentiation be linked to investment
deductions for citizens who invest in long-term securities, for example. The recent decision by the State Duma to allow deductions for individuals who use
individual investment accounts and long-term savings programmes aligns with
this objective. Therefore, our work here encompasses a wide range of significant considerations beyond simply adjusting rates for wealthier
individuals. There are numerous aspects in which we aim to contribute.</p><p>There is one more issue that is
directly related to your approach to stability and predictability in the fiscal
system. We have many temporary solutions. For instance, export duties were
applied for a six-month period last year, and discussions are ongoing regarding
extending them for another six months. Similarly, restrictions on carrying
losses forward to future periods were implemented as a temporary measure. We
advocate for greater certainty in these matters and seek to engage in discussions with the Government before finalising these tax changes.</p><p>From my understanding of your
approach, Mr President, it appears that following these decisions, there will
be a sort of moratorium on…</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Changes.</p><p><b>Alexander Shokhin</b>: This approach was largely used after
2018 – you announced this moratorium. However, we have observed that at times,
the rates remain unchanged…</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: …while the load is growing.</p><p><b>Alexander Shokhin</b>: Therefore, we would like to work
together closely on this matter. We acknowledge our responsibility in this
regard and are prepared to do our share of the work. Yet, we would like to work
alongside the Government and the State Duma. As we contribute to outlining the primary directions of tax, budget, and tariff policies, we hope to gain a clearer understanding, possibly even before the conclusion of the spring
session of the Duma and prior to commencing work on the annual and three-year
budget for the upcoming period.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: This is why we are meeting today.
This meeting will mark the beginning of our joint efforts.</p><p><b>Alexander Shokhin</b>: Good.</p><p> <…></p> Address to Russian citizens on the outcome of the presidential electionhttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736922024-03-21T15:24:03+04:002024-03-21T13:00:00+04:00 <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/vSopDLqus6B2I0j4vVk5t1XLXmznJvgL.jpg" alt="Address to Russian citizens on the outcome of the presidential election." /> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/vSopDLqus6B2I0j4vVk5t1XLXmznJvgL.jpg" alt="Address to Russian citizens on the outcome of the presidential election." /> <p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin</b>: Citizens of Russia, friends,</p><p>The official results of the presidential election were announced today.
The election campaign, which was extremely important for our country, society
and citizens, has come to a close.</p><p>Each candidate had a different approach to addressing specific issues. We
will consider all constructive proposals and ideas that resonated with voters
in our collective efforts to develop the country.</p><p>This election campaign was intense and extremely important. At the end
of the day, we were choosing Russia's future direction; we were deciding on our
own future and that of our children. The absolute majority of the voters who
cast their ballot realised the significance of this event.</p><p>Once again, I would like to thank everyone who took part in the voting,
regardless of which candidate you voted for. Most importantly, you have shown
that you treat your civic duty with respect, value freedom of choice and your
vote, and to reiterate, every one of your votes was of great importance.</p><p>Friends,</p><p>Thank you for your support. It is more important to me than the formal
victory in the elections. It signifies support for the political and economic policies
of our country and our overall results, which, of course, should be more
extensive, but are nonetheless making Russia stronger and more independent.</p><p>A few words about the performance of election commissions at all levels.
As always, you acted efficiently and competently, adhering to the principles of transparency and strict compliance with the law. The members of the election
commissions in our historical territories showed courage and bravery, serving
as an example for voters.</p><p>Friends,</p><p>Thank you for your trust. I am committed to meeting your expectations to the best of my ability. I realise that this level of trust increases my responsibility
for Russia, for the well-being of our people, and demands even greater
dedication and efficiency from me personally and from our entire team.</p><p>We will do everything possible to ensure the successful implementation
of the ambitious national projects and programmes that I recently outlined in my Address.</p><p>The elections have revealed that Russia today is one big, closely-knit
family. We are steadfastly following the historical path we have chosen. We have
confidence in ourselves, our abilities, and our future.</p><p>Thank you.</p> Meeting with trusted representativeshttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736872024-03-20T21:56:52+04:002024-03-20T13:05:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin met with trusted
representatives, who supported him during the Russian presidential elections,
in the St Andrew Hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace. </p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/zfDAuZOUnYJVKSpSZJGL15mbXO82AcYq.jpg" alt="Meeting with trusted representatives." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin met with trusted
representatives, who supported him during the Russian presidential elections,
in the St Andrew Hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace. </p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/zfDAuZOUnYJVKSpSZJGL15mbXO82AcYq.jpg" alt="Meeting with trusted representatives." /> <p>The list of Vladimir Putin’s
authorised representatives included 544 people, specifically, political and public activists, cultural figures, artists, academics and athletes. </p><p><b>* * *</b></p><p><i>Excerpts from the transcript of Vladimir Putin's meeting with his trusted representatives</i></p><p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin:</b> Dear friends, </p><p>I requested this meeting in order to thank you for our joint work during the election campaign. We met on January 31
when the campaign was just beginning, and now, we can see its results.</p><p>All of us should once again thank the voters, citizens of Russia, for the trust they have placed in us. I am talking
about all of us because we all set forth our common national development
programme.</p><p>Many of you worked in very difficult
conditions, including our border territories where neo-Nazis are shelling
peaceful cities and the civilian infrastructure. In Donbass and Novorossiya, a special character was required, courage and personal heroism (I would not shy
away from using this word) . </p><p>Thank you very much for your work.</p><p>Of course, after events like this
and after such a result, which highlights the great confidence that Russian
citizens have in our work and, most importantly, with regard to our stated
plans, we are faced, above all, with a really substantial responsibility. You
know, the feeling of responsibility, rather than anxiety, increases dramatically.</p><p>This is because, of course, people
are expecting the implementation of our stated objectives and action on the priorities outlined in our plans. One way or another, the Presidential Address
to the Federal Assembly sets forth all these plans. Of course, you probably
know all about these, at least the main provisions. What is most important is
that these ambitious and well-thought-out provisions will receive the required
funding.</p><p>What matters is that we join hands…
Why should we act jointly? Because those present here have independently achieved
major results in their respective lifetime careers. I hope very much that together,
we will embark on this path of creating and building all the components of a new Russia, including the economy, defence capability, art, domestic policy,
the development of our state and its institutions. In short, this means across
the board so that we can make our country, our Motherland and Russia even
stronger, even more attractive and more effective. </p><p>We have
everything we need for this but most importantly, we have the will of the Russian people. The people expressed their will quite clearly during the election campaign and with
its results. We have the resources we need. We have proper globally recognised practices. </p><p>Of course, there
is a lot to do in every area we identified as priorities for the Motherland’s
development. I really count on your creative work and initiative because even
development areas that are carefully thought-out and well-funded still require
a creative approach and personal commitment from everybody who works for the good of the Motherland and to achieve results that will help us get closer to achieving the national development goals. </p><p>I believe
that all these things together constitute our lifetime goal. I am saying this once
again without exaggeration, because every person present here has done a great
deal in terms of their personal and professional service to the Fatherland.
When we say “serving the Fatherland,” above all and especially now, during this
period in our history, we think of our fighters and our heroes fighting at the contact line, protecting and defending the interests of our nation with
weapons. </p><p>The same is
true for all the other areas. I have just listed them so I will not repeat
myself. The outcome for the country as a whole will depend on the results of every single person. </p><p>This is, essentially,
what I wanted to say. The main purpose of this meeting was to thank you. Thank
you very much for your support. I wish you success in your lives and your work.
</p><p>There is one
more aspect I wanted to mention. The election campaign office received more
than 80,000 messages. It is estimated that around 40 percent of the messages were
simply words of support for the candidate that people decided to vote for, and I am very grateful to them. The other 60 percent were specific suggestions concerning
our work and further action. </p><p>I know that
many of you have spoken to the public and heard people’s suggestions on what
they would like us to achieve in the next six years. Please, as far as possible,
summarise the feedback you received from people. </p><p>I have said
this many times and we are all well aware of it: this feedback from the public
is a very important process of creative work. Only by keeping a finger on the pulse of society will we be able to make timely adjustments to the major plans
outlined in the Address to the Federal Assembly. And it is the only way we can
achieve the final result. </p><p>So, I suggest
you summarise everything you hear from people and everything you find important
during these contacts. You and the Russian Popular Front should take action on this feedback. For my part, I promise that all the executive bodies will focus
on this work. Certainly, I will also forward these suggestions to State Duma
deputies. Yesterday I met with leaders of parliamentary parties. Everybody is committed
to constructive work together. </p><p>Finally, I want to express my gratitude once again. Thank you so much for your support. </p><p><…></p><p><b>Vladimir Putin </b><i>(responding to remarks by Head of the Department on Cooperation between the Regions of the Defenders of the Fatherland State Foundation</i> <i>Maria Kostyuk, mother of Hero of Russia
(posthumously) Andrei Kovtun)</i>: Thank you very much. I will not go over
everything now, but thank you for the most important thing that you did and for your current work which enjoys high demand.</p><p>When we were creating this entity,
the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation, we said our goal was to reach every
family. Of course, this is the overarching goal. Overall, though, I see that
you are moving towards this end. I wish you success. Thank you very much.</p><p><…></p><p><b>Vladimir</b> <b>Putin</b>
<i>(commenting on remarks by Dmitry Pekurovsky, chairman of the Russian Union of Rural Youth)</i>: Mr Pekurovsky, this event is
taking place in the palatial Kremlin halls which is fitting for its importance.
But we must never forget about the importance of rural areas and the people who
work there.</p><p>We take pride in the incredible
success of the people who work in agriculture. I am not going to list the figures now, but 20 or so years ago we could not even imagine that our
agricultural exports would be multiple times higher than our exports of armaments. It never even occurred to anyone.</p><p>When we started exporting grain we
ran into a problem. Our ports were designed to receive grain, not to ship it.
It was a technical problem. Now, we are the world’s number one wheat exporter.</p><p>The agricultural industry is
becoming an increasingly high-tech and modern sector. It is easy to say that in a festive setting. However, life expectancy in rural areas is lower than the national average. Thankfully, it is growing and has reached 73 years on average, but it is still lower in rural areas. Social amenities are more
modest. There is much more I can add to this “but,” which means there is a lot
more to improve in rural areas.</p><p>Indeed, many programmes are designed
to achieve this. The rural mortgage programme remains unchanged, as does the social development programme for rural areas. Speaking of primary care, the bulk of the funds are set aside for rural areas. First, we need to expand this
support.</p><p>Without a doubt, we will do
everything to support the agricultural industry and the social sphere. If it is
not enough – and it is never enough – we should look at the way the funds are
being used and see if they are used effectively. We will improve these
mechanisms working as a team with your organisation, among others.</p><p>Thank you very much.</p><p><…></p><p><b>Vladimir
Putin </b><i>(elaborating
on remarks by Deputy Director for Research at the RAS Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology Anna Kudryavtseva)</i><b>:</b> I am paraphrasing: at one time Academician Tamm said that the next
century would be a century of biology in the same way the 20<sup>th</sup>
century was a century of physics. That said, the importance of physics has not gone
away. However, it is perfectly obvious that biology is becoming no less important
in research than physics is. No doubt, the future largely belongs to biology.
However, the synergy of all these areas will produce a maximum effect.</p><p>We are proud
of the achievements made by our scientists. Indeed, today we are seeing a considerable rejuvenation of science. There are many researchers under 35, the age when people are at their creative peak. </p><p>I am hoping
that the support measures that the state is offering and using now – I am referring
to the mega grants that you are bound to be aware of – are designed to attract our
specialists. At one time, they would leave for other countries. They are working
there, achieving results and becoming Nobel Prize winners. I know, I have
talked to them, I met with them. Many of them return. For some, this temporary job
becomes permanent. They create their laboratories here and attract young
researchers to them. They are proud of these researchers. You and I are proud of them, too. We are looking forward to your results.</p><p>For our
part, we will do our best to support you.</p><p><…></p><p><b>Vladimir
Putin </b><i>(replying to the remarks by</i> <i>Chief
Physician of the St Luke of Crimea Crimean District Hospital of Starooskolsk Svetlana
Nemtseva. Having spoken about the development of healthcare in the Belgorod Region, she added
that the shelling of its residents has failed to achieve the desired effect. Ms
Nemtseva emphasised that not a single doctor from Belgorod
or other districts subjected to the shelling in the Belgorod Region has left his or her home or job)</i>: Ms Nemtseva, first I would like to express
gratitude and admiration to the people of the Belgorod Region and other border
areas. I want to express my gratitude for your courage.</p><p>By all means, we will do our best to support the entrepreneurs who lost their businesses and ordinary people who
lost their homes, and much more. I will not list everything there is to it.
There is much to do, and we will do everything that depends on us.</p><p>Of course, security is our primary goal.
There are different approaches to it. They are not simple, but we will do it. I have discussed it earlier, and I just do not want to go into details given the occasion.
But we will certainly work on it.</p><p>I also discussed why the enemy was
taking such steps. Without a doubt, we can respond in kind and deliver strikes
against civilian infrastructure and similar targets. We have our own views and plans in this regard. We will follow the path that we have outlined for ourselves.</p><p>With regard to the civilian
component of what you mentioned – primary care – we are renewing this programme,
and adequate resources are being appropriated to this end. There is no doubt
that this work will continue with a focus on rural health care and interregional centres. We will equip them properly. A significant number of motor
vehicles have been bought. Of course, we will focus on special medical
equipment and personnel training.</p><p>You mentioned raising wages in small
towns and rural communities. Things seem to be okay but, on the other hand,
there are labour shortages, which means we are not doing enough. Wage increases
are modest, but raising the level of compensation in small communities is still
the first step to ensure the necessary number of specialists working in rural
areas, district hospitals, and other primary care centres. Everything will be gradually
done.</p><p>I said earlier that it would be good
if you made a list of your proposals, so that we include them in our specific
activities. I heard you say that. Frankly, we are aware of that. But if you
have other ideas, please make a list and send it to us, and we will work on it.</p><p>Thank you very much.</p><p><…></p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Our colleagues – if you will allow
me to call you that – who spoke here talked
about anticipated victories and congratulated me on winning the election. Winning
the election is just the prologue to the victories that Russia needs so much and that are
sure to come.</p><p>Thank you very much.</p> Meeting with the leaders of parliamentary groupshttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736842024-03-20T20:43:25+04:002024-03-19T23:30:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>The President had a meeting with leaders of State Duma parliamentary groups at the Kremlin.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/mz4b4dRAFwgJMCKQFl0AhKfNzmGhumgQ.JPG" alt="Meeting with the leaders of parliamentary groups." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>The President had a meeting with leaders of State Duma parliamentary groups at the Kremlin.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/mz4b4dRAFwgJMCKQFl0AhKfNzmGhumgQ.JPG" alt="Meeting with the leaders of parliamentary groups." /> <p>Taking part in the meeting were head of the United Russia parliamentary group Vladimir Vasilyev, head of the Communist
Party of the Russian Federation parliamentary group Gennady Zyuganov, head of the A Just Russia – For the Truth parliamentary group Sergei Mironov, head of the New People parliamentary group Alexei Nechayev, and head of the LDPR –
Liberal Democratic Party of Russia parliamentary group Leonid Slutsky.</p><p>State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin and First
Deputy Head of the Presidential Executive Office Sergei Kiriyenko also attended
the meeting.</p><p><b>* * *</b></p><p><b>President of Russia
Vladimir Putin:</b>
Colleagues, good evening.</p><p>You are probably aware that yesterday we had a meeting among the candidates for President of Russia. Yesterday, I met with our
colleagues who represent your parliamentary groups, and some of them stand at their helm. I invited them to this meeting to discuss matters that they viewed
as essential and key items on their programmes. Of course, every candidate has
something in his programme that deserves our special attention. That said, all
these programmes have a very clear focus on national development as their
primary purpose. This is the first point I wanted to make.</p><p>The second topic we raised during this meeting addressed
the issues that caught their attention following their meetings with voters.
This is something very important. In fact, receiving this kind of feedback from
the people is crucial, and I was eager to hear what they had to say in this
regard.</p><p>Today, I would like to discuss our short-term
priorities. I set forth my national development programme in the Address to the Federation Assembly, to you and to our colleagues in the Federation Council.</p><p>There is nothing new here, and you have already
heard it all. Still, let me say that the most important goal is to preserve the population. This includes helping families, stimulating demographic shifts,
supporting young people, new families, families with children, particularly
large families, as well as educating the younger generation. These objectives
can only be achieved through economic growth, which serves as the cornerstone
of our progress and provides the foundation for addressing all other matters,
including technological sovereignty and social development. Parliamentary
parties have always had diverging opinions on these matters, which is fine, of course. They have their own vision of what needs to be done to fulfil our
social development goals.</p><p>I know that you could not fail to note that
these priorities include efforts to enable the constituent entities of the Russian Federation, the regions, as well as municipalities to unleash their
potential by offering them their own tax base, etc. I know that you support all
these undertakings. Improving urban and rural infrastructure is also
instrumental, of course.</p><p>Strengthening our defence capabilities and reinforcing national security has always been important for us, and has become
even more so today.</p><p>The Address to the Federal Assembly covers all
these points in one way or another. My colleagues and I discussed these topics
yesterday here in this room. Of course, we must work together on all these
matters in the near future and for the whole year, as well as in the longer
term throughout the six-year cycle. There are many important issues on this
agenda.</p><p>We have raised many issues in our discussions.
By the way, I had meetings with almost all of you before delivering my Address
to the Federal Assembly, but this is the first time we meet in this format to follow up on the Address. We discussed many things before the Address, and you
have probably noticed that your proposals did make it into the Address.</p><p>I really hope that we keep working
in the same constructive manner in the years to come as we did during the election campaign. Of course, each candidate, backed by their respective
parties, had their own priorities and focus points. Still, the election
campaign unfolded in a civilised manner, and I really hope that as we move into
practical efforts to develop our country, Russia, we will work together in the same constructive spirit.</p><p>Of course, we will inevitably
disagree on certain points, this is obvious. With this in mind, if someone
believes that his or her proposal is better than other contributions, they should
fight for their vision. I do hope, however, that these struggles will be just
as civilised as during the recent period.</p><p>Finally, there is one more important
point I wanted to make. In accordance with the Constitution, I mean its updated
version, the Parliament is vested with the authority to form the Government,
our supreme executive body. Not only will you approve the Prime Minister’s
appointment, but also deputy prime ministers and ministers from the block. What
an important and responsible task you have. You know, many people simply live
their lives. This fact may have failed to catch the attention of ordinary
people, but this is one of the key provisions in the updated Constitution. The parliament
is now vested with extensive powers in terms of defining the Government
line-up. This is a very responsible task.</p><p>You know, back in the day when I worked in Leningrad, and then in St Petersburg,
I saw the way legislative bodies stumbled when facing issues of this kind,
since every appointment ran up against vested corporate interests. I would like
to call on you to focus on our cause instead of corporate and even party
interests by selecting people for their personal and professional qualities,
their ability to deliver on the objectives we will have to tackle. This is
extremely important. I do hope that you and I will find answers to all these
questions in our constructive business-like conversations.</p><p>This is what I wanted to say in terms of my opening remarks. I suggest that we proceed in the following manner:
I would like to ask you to make brief statements. As far as I understand, each
of you wanted to raise some specific issues you believe to be important. I am
ready for that and we can do it. Let us get down to business. Go ahead, please.</p><p><…></p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: In conclusion to this part of our meeting,
I would like to say the following: colleagues, each of you has spoken about the election now. The election is a very important event, especially in the current
environment. It creates basic conditions for developing our statehood,
strengthening our country; the basic conditions for progress in the future. It
is impossible to move ahead without this. We must thank the citizens of our
country, our voters for being so active, especially now.</p><p>I said recently, whom did our enemy decide
to intimidate – the Russian people, the multiethnic people of Russia? This never happened and will
never happen. I bet you also noticed this. Foreign press representatives approached
people in difficult regions and asked: “Where are you going? Aren’t you scared?”
And one man replied: “I am Russian and I am going where I need to go.” </p><p>You see, what our enemy does in the hope
of achieving the desired result, produced the reverse effect, that’s all. They do
not know who they are dealing with – with Russia. After all, this is still a community
of people united by common goals despite ethnic origins or religious distinction.
We have a common culture; we have what unites all of us. </p><p>After this important event, when the people, average citizens came out and did their duty, it is now our turn to do
our duty for them.</p><p>There is a lot of stupidity and injustice in our people's lives starting at the lowest level and going all the way to the top. We cannot sit on our laurels now and say that this is all gone,
that now we will take our seats as usual and will start functioning. No. I would like to draw your attention to this. We need renewal and not of specific people.
We need to adjust our approaches to resolving the problems that we are all
facing. This is very important.</p><p>Some things may not work out. But
when our people see that all government levels are working honestly,
intensively and are trying to do all they can to resolve the problems, people
will forgive them many things and will look honourably at many things. Our job,
together with you, is to work to the best of our ability, to do everything we
can. </p><p>Of course, now I will join those who
said in this office, at this table today that we certainly need to pool our
efforts in the interests of the state. Yes, we must all work together.
Obviously, and I started with this, there are issues of principle for representatives of every party, every parliamentary party. I am sure that the main point is to have a sincere attitude to what you are doing. People seek to resolve a problem in what they consider the best way, but I urge all of you to seek the compromises needed by the country. </p><p>Until now, we have managed to do
this in the rather complicated conditions of external pressure. There is every
reason to believe, as they say, that we will be able to continue working with
the same efficiency. There is no doubt that in this situation we will meet all the main challenges we are facing and achieve our fundamental development goals.</p><p>I would like to finish my remarks at this point, and we will have a separate discussion later. </p><p><…></p> Meeting with Eurasian Economic Commission Board Chairman Bakytzhan Sagintayevhttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736832024-03-20T14:33:26+04:002024-03-19T22:10:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin met at the Kremlin with Chairman of the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission
Bakytzhan Sagintayev.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/gsExDoxjEJeBog20Btw0zLAAR0YFs7tw.jpg" alt="Chairman of the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission Bakytzhan Sagintayev." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin met at the Kremlin with Chairman of the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission
Bakytzhan Sagintayev.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/gsExDoxjEJeBog20Btw0zLAAR0YFs7tw.jpg" alt="Chairman of the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission Bakytzhan Sagintayev." /> <p>Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk and Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov
also attended the meeting.</p><p>* * *</p><p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin</b>: Mr Sagintayev, I am delighted to see you.</p><p>I would like to congratulate you again on assuming office, which you
have done without any delay, getting to work as of February 1. You have already
held the first commission meetings. I believe it was in Almaty, wasn’t it?</p><p><b>Chairman of the Board of the Eurasian Economic
Commission Bakytzhan Sagintayev:</b> Yes, we held a meeting of the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council in Almaty.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin:</b> There is a great deal to do, but you have
extensive experience. You have held top positions in the executive government of Kazakhstan, including as deputy prime minister and prime minister, so you have
a lot of experience.</p><p>In fact, work at the Commission is nothing new to you because you have
worked there for several years as deputy chairman. </p><p>The Commission is being renewed now.</p><p><b>Bakytzhan Sagintayev:</b> Yes, we have new objectives.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin:</b> We have new objectives because we face many
challenges, and their number is growing.</p><p><b>Bakytzhan Sagintayev:</b> Absolutely.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin:</b> Nevertheless, your work is very interesting
and can benefit our countries’ economies.</p><p>I know that you have started preparations for an anniversary event,
which has been scheduled for May 8. Will we hold it here in Moscow?</p><p><b>Bakytzhan Sagintayev:</b> Yes, it will be held in Moscow.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin:</b> Wonderful. We are always ready for such
events. As you know, we are pleased to do this. All our colleagues will find a warm welcome here.</p><p>I believe
you have worked with all the heads of state. Everybody seems to know you. But now,
you are introducing yourself to our countries’ leaders in a new role. </p><p>I wish you every
success. We will do all we can to support you. </p><p><b>Bakytzhan Sagintayev</b>: Thank you very much.</p><p>Mr
President, thank you for today’s meeting and congratulations on your landslide
victory in the Russian presidential election. </p><p><b>Vladimir
Putin</b>: Thank you.</p><p><b>Bakytzhan Sagintayev</b>: The election results indicate that
the nation fully supports your policy and that you have chosen the correct strategic
course of socioeconomic development. I wish you and the Russian people
prosperity, dynamic development across all sectors, and success in overcoming
all challenges. </p><p>The fact
that we are meeting immediately after the election shows how much you care
about integration and the EAEU, in particular. On behalf of the entire Eurasian
Economic Commission and all my colleagues, I would like to thank you once again
for this meeting. </p><p>You know
very well that this year marks ten years of our integration since the signing
of the treaty in 2015. As you noted today, I was involved in drafting the treaties as an expert and I know how thoroughly you discussed every article.
The fact that the union operates and prospers today is the result of the work
done by you and your colleagues in the early days. </p><p>If we look
at the numbers, mutual trade between our countries has almost doubled in the past decade, thanks to integration. Foreign trade has grown by 60 percent. As concerns settling accounts with each other in national currencies, during the period from 2015 and 2021, payments in national currencies accounted for over
70 percent. In 2022, we reached 80 percent. In 2023, it was already 90 percent.
I believe that at this pace, we will complete this transition to payments in national currencies very soon. We are delighted to see this great development. </p><p>If we look
at the 2023 results, they are impressive. But in general, if we look at specific
industries, retail trade grew by 6.6 percent, investment capital by 10 percent,
and industrial production is growing at a rate of almost 4 percent.
Importantly, the amount of construction works has grown by more than 8 percent.
So, the governments of our countries are dealing quite well with the tasks set
by the heads of state.</p><p>I have mentioned
that this year, the EAEU marks ten years since its establishment, and there are
several key decisions to be made in 2025. These include creating a common market
for energy, oil, gas and electric power. Another very serious issue is our
common financial market. </p><p>As you
know, according to the treaty, there must be an office in Almaty. Our central
banks and national banks are working hard to make it happen. I think that by the end of the year, we will reach a decision on the format of our further work
in this area. </p><p>Of course, one of our priorities is
the Eurasian Economic Path Declaration, which has largely defined our efforts
since it was signed by the heads of state in late 2023 in St Petersburg. It
outlines our medium-term and long-term strategies until 2045. You were the one
who initiated this declaration. The heads of state supported this document and adopted it. Today, we are working on an action plan together with the national
governments. We hope to be able to complete these efforts by the end of 2024 so
that by that time the Supreme Council can approve it. This way, we can get down
to carrying out the provisions set forth in this declaration from next year,
just as the first strategy runs its course.</p><p>There is one more topic the heads of state keep bringing up at every Supreme Council meeting. Today, it is also a priority for us. I am talking about introducing digital technology and solutions in our economies. This is a major task for us.
Of course, we do understand that the level of digital transformation varies
from one country to another within the EAEU, which does hinder our efforts,
even if slightly, since when one country decides to move forward, we are unable
to connect another country to the same process…</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>:
Not ready.</p><p><b>Bakytzhan Sagintayev</b>: Still, we are working along these lines, and our banking community and central banks are doing a great job. The Russian Central Bank launched the digital ruble, and the National Bank of Kazakhstan has already launched the digital tenge. We are making plans for a switch to digital money, considering
the geopolitical environment.</p><p>We have even had discussions with
our colleagues on carrying out settlements for certain kinds of products in digital currency. This is work in progress, and we discussed it during the meeting of prime ministers in Almaty. Prior to that there was a digital forum
where we promised to present our near-term vision for the digital agenda to prime
ministers, so that we can move on and seek the approval from the heads of state.</p><p>We have been investing a lot of effort on this front, since we live in the digital age when our people,
businesses and society want us to rely on digital solutions when dealing with
the four freedoms.</p><p>There are some outstanding questions
though. Take our tax systems or other structures: how will they exchange
information, how do they transfer data among themselves, protect it, etc.? We
need answers. Just two weeks ago, I had a meeting with German Gref, whom I’ve
known for a long time. I called him on the phone and went to see him, asking
for his assistance, in view of all the great work they have accomplished over
at Sber. We agreed that they would offer us their advice and have their
specialists assist us in our efforts. After all, the specialists we have in our
staff are bureaucrats rather than IT professionals, considering the salaries
they earn.</p><p>You also raised the issue of industrial cooperation and supported this sector last year by allocating budget
funding to this effect. We are now receiving many proposals with many banks
involved across all five countries.</p><p>Today, we also asked the Eurasian
Development Bank (EDB) to join these efforts. I invited the head of the EDB and we sat down to discuss the projects we already have, taking into account the EDB’s experience, so that we could get down to considering them.</p><p>As of today, we are examining four
projects: two from Gazprombank, one from the Halyk Bank, and another from EDB.
But this process has not been without its challenges and we would like to outline
these at the June Council of Heads of Government. In fact, there is too much
red tape and many administrative barriers, and all the criteria have a cooling
effect. This is why businesses are reluctant to become involved despite the attractive subsidies we offer them. Our colleagues will have a meeting with Mr
Manturov soon to discuss these issues, among other things.</p><p>In early February, soon after I was
appointed, I met with Prime Minister Mishustin. Mr Overchuk also attended this
meeting, and the three of us talked it all over, agreeing to hands-on efforts
to launch and publicise several industrial cooperation projects. This was
designed to show how they could be useful and beneficial, and that our Union makes
these projects possible. We must support projects of this kind across our
Union.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>:
Mr Sagintayev, I wanted to ask you something. In 2024, Russia assumes the BRICS
chairmanship. Other EAEU countries are not part of this association, but it
offers ample opportunities. I am referring to the plans of our Chinese friends,
the Belt and Road Initiative. We keep saying that these projects can be
complementary: our vision for Eurasian development and the Chinese initiative.
The BRICS leaders will come to Kazan, so I would like to ask you to explore and discuss with your Russian colleagues how EAEU countries can work together with
BRICS countries. There could be so many interesting projects and development
opportunities here.</p><p>You talked about financial
transactions. There are also things we can discuss on this topic. Many of us
are interested in devising a system for carrying out settlements in national
currencies that can operate as a standalone, modern, innovative and high-technology settlement centre serving many countries. This can be done, and caries a lot of promise, just as with financial and banking systems.</p><p>As you know, we created the New
Development Bank within BRICS, and it also has all kinds of ideas on expanding
its work and playing a bigger functional role. It would be great if Russia
could put forward several proposals which would serve all our member states.
After all, we seek to coordinate all the steps we take with all the EAEU
members which, of course, includes your position and the Commission’s positon.
Together, we could draft a joint proposal.</p><p>This would serve everyone’s
interests. All countries, be it Russia, Kazakhstan or Belarus, work with BRICS
countries in one way or another. It would be great if we could put forward
certain proposals and submit them to our colleagues, as we will discuss right
now. I have certain ideas. If we present them as our joint initiatives, this
could well become a recipe for success.</p><p><b>Bakytzhan Sagintayev</b>: Mr Putin, we will work on these matters.</p><p><…></p> Meeting of Federal Security Service Boardhttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736782024-03-19T17:55:16+04:002024-03-19T14:40:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin took part
in an expanded meeting of the Federal Security Service Board.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/RM4xfpCm4LVJA01rLvLBxeXiFAAuYv0T.jpg" alt="expanded meeting of the Federal Security Service Board." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin took part
in an expanded meeting of the Federal Security Service Board.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/RM4xfpCm4LVJA01rLvLBxeXiFAAuYv0T.jpg" alt="expanded meeting of the Federal Security Service Board." /> <p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin:</b> Mr Bortnikov, comrades,</p><p>Today, at the expanded meeting of the Board you will review your performance last year and discuss your immediate priorities, including in the context of the strategic
objectives outlined in my Address to the Federal Assembly on February 29.</p><p>First, I would
like to say that in 2023, the Service personnel demonstrated competence and efficiency
across all spheres of their operation, reaffirming the high status and prestige
of the Service as a key element in ensuring the national security and sovereignty of Russia.</p><p>You focused on fulfilling the tasks related to the special military operation. You reliably
protected our constitutional order and thwarted attempts to interfere in our
internal affairs, including during the recent elections. You guarded public
safety. Acting in difficult conditions and often during hostilities, you protected
our state border and scored new achievements in the fight against terrorism and extremism.</p><p>I would like to express gratitude to the FSB personnel for their professionalism and courage
and for everything you have done for our Motherland during the complicated and extremely responsible period under review.</p><p>Our utmost
appreciation is reserved for those who undertook extremely difficult missions
in Donbass and Novorossiya, risking their lives to fulfil operational and combat
intelligence and counterintelligence tasks. </p><p>Of course, we
will never forget the Service personnel who have fallen in the line of duty and will always support their families. The heroism of our comrades in arms, just
like the courage shown by the heroes of the Great Patriotic War and all
defenders of the freedom and independence of our Motherland, will forever serve
as a guiding light for the current and future generations of security service
personnel. </p><p>Comrades,</p><p>The challenges we are facing and attempts to undermine our development require from us systemic, consistent efforts in all
areas – in the economy, technology, culture, the social sector and the consolidation of our government and public institutions. The most important
guarantee of success in achieving these goals is the protection of national
sovereignty and the security of our people against external and internal
threats. I have said this many times and we all understand this.</p><p>Therefore, the people of our country, the people of Russia expect the Federal Security Service (FSB) and all officers of Russian
security services to display utmost concentration and high commitment,
productive and proactive measures.</p><p>As I said earlier, the most critical and intense aspect of your work today is undoubtedly related to the special
military operation. You are facing a broad range of tasks in this respect. I commend
your efforts in neutralising enemy agents, terrorist cells and subversive
groups, as well as your successful operations at the front and behind enemy
lines, along with counterintelligence support for military units and formations.</p><p>I urge you to continue your consistent efforts
to strengthen the personnel and technical capabilities of FSB units in the Donetsk People’s Republic, the Lugansk People’s Republic and the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions. I must emphasise the importance of fully understanding the situation on the ground and relying on the support of the people and our
experience of countering international terrorism. Moreover, maintaining close
collaboration with the local authorities is crucial.</p><p>I would like to note at this point that at one
time the West actively used various cross-border radical and terrorist groups
and, in part, encouraged their aggression against Russia.</p><p>Predictably, the neo-Nazi Kiev regime has also
switched to terrorist tactics – with similar external support and often under direct
instructions. This includes the shelling of peaceful cities, assaults on government officials and public figures, and attempts to recruit perpetrators
of subversive and terrorist attacks targeting critical infrastructure and public
spaces in Russia.</p><p>I would also like to recall the recent
provocative statements by a number of official Western structures regarding
potential terrorist attacks in Russia. All these actions resemble outright
blackmail and the intention to intimidate and destabilise our society. You are
well aware of them, so I will not go into details at this point. </p><p>I am asking the Federal Security
Service, together with other special services and law enforcement agencies, to step up their counter-terrorist efforts in all areas in a meaningful way with
the National Anti-Terrorism Committee playing its coordinating role. We must
understand that we are dealing with a formidable and dangerous adversary who
has a wide range of informational, technical, and financial tools up its
sleeve. Make no mistake, we know what they are capable of in all these areas,
including in terms of intelligence gathering, and we are aware of the terrorist
methods they use too. Suffice to mention the bombing of the Nord Stream
pipelines in the Baltic Sea. They would resort to anything.</p><p>In this context, the units in charge
of defending the constitutional form of government and fighting extremism pursue
important objectives. You must be firm and prompt in stopping short any
attempts to sow discord, provoke inter-ethnic conflicts and violate the rights
and freedoms of our people, as well as attempts to exploit Russophobia or any
other intolerant ideology.</p><p>In this regard, our
counter-intelligence bodies play an instrumental role, including when it comes
to combatting terrorism and extremism, since it is the same Western special
services which are behind their manifestations, and on other important fronts.</p><p>This includes neutralising
reconnaissance and sabotage efforts by the Western special services, protecting
strategic confidential information, including data stored in the state and military administration systems, as well as information on advanced
technologies and solutions for the military and other sectors we are currently
working on. The adversary sees that we have it all and that there is a lot of positive momentum. It is obvious that they are targeting us in this context
too.</p><p>Moving on, much has been done lately
to strengthen the state border, especially sections of it that de facto run through
the combat zone. Border control units received additional manpower, the latest
weapons and equipment.</p><p> <i>To be continued.</i></p> Concert marking 10th anniversary of Crimea and Sevastopol’s reunification with Russiahttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736702024-03-18T22:31:15+04:002024-03-18T19:20:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin attended a concert on Red Square to celebrate the 10<sup>th</sup> anniversary of Crimea
and Sevastopol’s reunification with the Russian Federation.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/WVkUxjP3z2vE6PoAIspGeEBjzDaNZ3qt.jpg" alt="Concert marking 10th anniversary of Crimea and Sevastopol’s reunification with Russia." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin attended a concert on Red Square to celebrate the 10<sup>th</sup> anniversary of Crimea
and Sevastopol’s reunification with the Russian Federation.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/WVkUxjP3z2vE6PoAIspGeEBjzDaNZ3qt.jpg" alt="Concert marking 10th anniversary of Crimea and Sevastopol’s reunification with Russia." /> <p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin:</b> Friends,</p><p>From the bottom of my heart, I welcome and congratulate you all on the anniversary of the reunification of Crimea and Sevastopol with Russia!</p><p>Exactly ten
years ago, taking the same stage on Red Square, I recalled that Crimea is often
called the unsinkable aircraft carrier. This is what prompted me to say that
Crimea had returned to its home harbour. </p><p>However,
Crimea is not only a strategically vital
territory, not only part of our history, our traditions and Russia’s pride.
Crimea is primarily its people. The people of Sevastopol and Crimea, they are
our pride. They remained faithful to the homeland over the decades, they never
separated themselves from Russia, and this is precisely what made it possible
for Crimea to come back to our common family. </p><p>The same is true of Donbass and Novorossiya. The people living there
expressed their will to return to their family during the days of the “Russian
Spring.” Their path home involved much greater difficulty and tragedy.
Nevertheless, we did it, and it is also a great event in the history of our
state. </p><p>Now we are making
progress and moving forward together, side by side. Just this morning, I received a report that the railway from Rostov to Donetsk, Mariupol and Berdyansk has been restored. We will continue this work and soon trains will go
straight to Sevastopol. This would be yet another alternative route – instead
of the Crimean Bridge.</p><p>We will carry
on like this together, hand in hand. This is what makes us truly stronger – not
in words but in deeds. And credit for all this goes to you, citizens of Russia.</p><p>Friends,</p><p>I have just
<a href="/events/president/news/73670">met</a> with my colleagues who travelled their own path in the presidential
campaign. They are all here. I have invited them – much to their surprise – to join
you here for this celebration. We have different approaches to achieving our national
goals but we have one Motherland, and they are here.</p><p>I wish you a happy holiday and would like them to say a few words today as well.</p><p><b>Nikolai Kharitonov:</b> Friends,</p><p>You remember that unsettling time
when the entire country was worried, but everyone believed and hoped that
Crimea would return home to its native harbour. We all remember how President of Russia Vladimir Putin spared no effort to ensure that the aspirations of the people of Crimea prevailed and that they return home.</p><p>Russia and Crimea have one and the same Motherland. Happy holiday, friends, happy 10<sup>th</sup> anniversary!
Hooray!</p><p><b>Leonid Slutsky:</b> Good
evening, Russia! Good evening, Crimea! Good evening, Sevastopol!</p><p>We remember those exciting days 10
years ago. Since that day, Crimea and Sevastopol have been on the political map
of the world as part of great Russia and will forever be.</p><p>Those were challenging days, but
there was no other choice but to return it to its home. We remember the happy
faces and – all these ten years – the radiant eyes and smiles of those who
returned home, who returned to their home harbour, those who returned to the great Russia.</p><p>Today, as we mark the tenth anniversary
of this historic day, which is forever inscribed in golden letters in Russian
history, I once again wish a happy anniversary to the courageous people of Crimea
and Sevastopol.</p><p>To Russia! To our great future! To the President of the great Russia!</p><p><b>Vladislav Davankov: </b>Friends,</p><p>I will never forget that sense of pride for my country and for my President ten years ago.</p><p>I wish you a happy holiday!</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin:</b> Happy
holiday! Long live Russia!</p><p><i>(The National Anthem of the Russian
Federation plays.)</i></p><p>We are proud of Russia!</p><p> Thank you!</p> Meeting with candidates for President of Russiahttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736682024-03-19T23:56:23+04:002024-03-18T18:30:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin met at the Kremlin with candidates for President of Russia.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/EcZ2ijjgqFIqVn6EKSF7AxFQQi0cLuHH.jpg" alt="Meeting with candidates for post of Russian Federation President." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin met at the Kremlin with candidates for President of Russia.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/EcZ2ijjgqFIqVn6EKSF7AxFQQi0cLuHH.jpg" alt="Meeting with candidates for post of Russian Federation President." /> <p>The meeting was attended by Deputy Speaker of the State Duma, member of the State
Duma Committee on Budget and Taxes, First Deputy Head of the New People party faction
in the State Duma (nominated by the New People party) Vladislav Davankov;
Chairman of the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, Head of the LDPR party faction
in the State Duma, Chairman of the State Duma Committee on International
Affairs (nominated by the LDPR party) Leonid Slutsky; and Chairman of the State
Duma Committee on the Development of the Russian Far East and Arctic, member of the Presidium of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation Central
Committee (nominated by the CPRF Party) Nikolai Kharitonov.</p><p><b>* *
*</b></p><p><b>President
of Russia Vladimir Putin:</b> Good afternoon, colleagues,</p><p>I suggested
holding this meeting because we all have travelled our own path during this
election campaign.</p><p>But
I am aware, and I always operate on the premise that each person, especially a representative of a parliamentary party, has their own view of what we should
do and how we should do it in order to achieve our common national development goals.
We share our goals, which is absolutely obvious. I know this from my long and close
communication with your parties and you personally.</p><p>In this regard, I would like to discuss certain things. During the election
campaign, you met with a large number of people, your voters. At the same time
we understand, and I believe that the electoral base of each party has not
really changed. The current times has its peculiarities, which reflected on the election of the President as head of state and Supreme Commander-in-Chief. However,
I believe that the electoral base has remained unchanged.</p><p>That mean that we need to continue working actively together in the country’s parliament, working together to advance the kinds of ideas that will
help us solve the challenges the country is facing.</p><p>You
have met with a large number of people and heard what people had to say. They
told you what they expect from the Government. And it does not really matter
now what the level of this authority is, what party
it is, or what ideas it promotes. What matters is our ability to achieve the goals that we set.</p><p>We
share the understanding of certain things, such as the security of the Russian
state, foreign policy issues, the importance of achieving sovereignty in defence,
technology, monetary policy, and so on. We have discussed this many times, and I know that our positions overlap here as well.</p><p>I would certainly like to hear what the people told you and what they expected
from you in order to use this feedback for joint work and to achieve our common
goals. As a matter of fact, that’s all I wanted to hear from you, there are no super-objectives
here.</p><p>I would like to thank everyone for the civilised election campaign that was held in full compliance with the law. I hope we will be able to keep this constructive
approach in the parliament and on the interaction platform in the Federation
Council where representatives of the Russian regions work in the future in order to achieve the development goals I mentioned earlier.</p><p>Please
go ahead.</p><p><b>Nikolai Kharitonov</b>: First, Mr President, allow me to congratulate
you.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Thank you.</p><p><b>Nikolai Kharitonov</b>: We recognise your victory.</p><p>We are well aware, as I have already said, that
today you have received not a laurel wreath from voters but accepted again a tremendous
burden and tremendous responsibility. We understand this very well.</p><p>We understand the time in which the election
took place. We understand how many human eyes, lives and feelings are directed
at you because for many years, you have been the leader and much has been done.
I remember the 2004 election – exactly 20 years later I happened to be running
again. Of course, there have been tremendous strides.</p><p>Surely it is no accident that today practically
the entire sensible international community understands full well that today
Russia is headed by a reliable man, a man trusted by the majority of people in Russia. And the most recent election has confirmed this. </p><p>We, the Communist Party of the Russian Federation,
and I as its candidate, understood it full well and did everything we could to consolidate the people as much as possible. </p><p><i>(Further Nikolai Kharitonov spoke about his trips
to different regions, primarily, in the Far East, his meetings with people and problems
that worry students, farmers and young families buying homes.)</i></p><p>There is a question you have mentioned and people
always ask about – salaries of teachers and medical workers that depend on the average
salary of a particular region. It is still necessary to make salaries equal
across the Russian Federation.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Indeed.</p><p><b>Nikolai Kharitonov</b>: I am referring to doctors and medical workers – all the more so as we are short of them. I won’t cite figures on the shortage
of medical professionals but they are significant. It is necessary to increase salaries
for teachers and healthcare workers to prevent them from going to Moscow and St
Petersburg [seeking higher salaries] – they should stay where they are.</p><p>I already told you at the Council of Lawmakers
in 2019… Incidentally, some people also said, albeit rarely, that the decision
on retirement age was rushed. I am referring to the Far East. Maybe we should look
at this again (they do go now and will continue to go to work on the construction of the Baikal Amur Railway) to offer young people an option – to go
there with the understanding that they are going there to earn their pensions. Let
them work for 20–22 years to get their pensions. If we want to encourage people
to go there.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: It is an option worth considering. </p><p>As for salaries in the social sector, the Government
is going to deal with them right away. I have also mentioned this in my Address.
Disparities must be evened out. You are absolutely right. People are doing the same
jobs for different money. This will be a subject for discussion, in the Duma as well.</p><p><b>Nikolai Kharitonov</b>: In some places, they are inventing per capita
funding in education. Meanwhile, there may be only three or four houses in rural areas but maybe a future Lomonosov is studying there. We have already made
a mess of things by streamlining everything in this area.</p><p>Rural areas are an issue of particular
concern; I also have proposals for the development of rural areas. The rural
population is aging.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>:
True.</p><p><b>Nikolai Kharitonov</b>: The lack of infrastructure results in a lack of work. Collective farms
and state farms… We lost 23,000 such farms. Any investor normally seeks grain
deals.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>:
Grain exports. </p><p><b>Nikolai Kharitonov</b>: This is all good and profitable. But we talk about how people need calcium,
and its source is milk. Today we have 7.8 million cows left. In the Soviet era,
we used to produce 50 million tonnes of milk, while today it is 28–31. I saw
that [Minister of Agriculture Dmitry] Patrushev reported to you an additional 700,000.
</p><p>I travelled to the Trans-Baikal
Territory to chair a meeting of the committee and toured the region for three
days. The last two livestock farms are shut down. I requested an appointment
with Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, which he agreed to. I told him: “There
are 11 Far Eastern regions, the Arctic, and the North – the conditions there is
tougher; let us launch a special programme to develop the local agro-industrial
complex to produce fish, caviar, meat and dairy products.”</p><p>Mr Mishustin signed an instruction
tasking three ministries to develop a target programme for the development of the agro-industrial complex, particularly as we have a neighbour [China] with
its population of 1.5 billion. We have the necessary environmental conditions
for feeding people, producing food and earning money – we just need to provide opportunities. </p><p><…></p><p>There are several proposals; I will
pass them on. </p><p><i>(Nikolai
Kharitonov also mentioned benefits for “Children of the War,” a population
group of those born between June 22, 1928, and September 3, 1945, that includes
nine million people. Mr Kharitonov said that certain regional laws have been
adopted, yet a federal law is required as a sign of gratitude to the generation
who often grew up without a father or mother but were involved in the work to restore the country.)</i></p><p>We are already receiving your
feedback on numerous issues. Hopefully, as soon as we meet in the Duma, we will
work together to implement everything that we have prepared. And primarily,
this is about social justice measures such as salaries and pensions. These are
the issues that people are concerned about. </p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>:
I see.</p><p>As for mortgage loans for young
people, including in the Far East…</p><p><b>Nikolai Kharitonov</b>: There are several options.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>:
True, but we can and should discuss this issue at great length; I will not do
it now on camera. </p><p>We have a lot to address in this
regard. And basically, we can find the resources for this. You just need to be
very careful here because our services, including the Central Bank, those that
are working to maintain macroeconomic indicators at the required level, are now
fearing that this vast mortgage programme – the one we are promoting, and we
are right in doing so – is putting a bit of pressure on inflation.</p><p>But we will talk about this
separately.</p><p><b>Nikolai Kharitonov</b>: Everyone was awaiting and was scared to see the Central Bank’s key
interest rate at 16 percent. My grandson got married in Novosibirsk last
September; he married an Altai-born young lady, and they took out a mortgage. Today,
everyone was expecting the rate to be maybe less than 16 percent. Young people
have purchased apartments, and the rate went up to 16 percent. There is going
to be another meeting and looks like they will keep it at 16. We need to address this; maybe we can influence it.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>:
There is a different rate for young families and those with children, less than
16 percent.</p><p><b>Nikolai Kharitonov</b>: These are young people without children.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>:
They have motivation to have their first child. </p><p>We will discuss it; this is a highly
important question, I agree completely.</p><p>Go ahead.</p><p><b>Leonid Slutsky: </b>Mr President, first of all, allow me
to extend my congratulations on your historic victory. </p><p>The percentages we have gained are of no
importance. The difference between us is less than one percentage point. It is
a detail I had not intended to address just yet, but you disclosed this fact
during your address to your election team tonight: indeed, we have contributed
a large number of the LDPR members’ votes to the main candidate. We have given
away a lot, leaving less for ourselves. Let me stress it once again: this plays
no role at all, nor is it of any importance. </p><p>What truly matters is that we have reaffirmed
the high prestige of our national leader, especially during a pivotal juncture
in our country’s recent history, at a time of the scared and noble special
military operation, an operation aimed at eradicating Nazism. This is probably – let us hope and trust that this is true – the last battle against Nazism in human history. Naturally, it will culminate in the victory of Russian arms. </p><p>Undoubtedly, these elections and this campaign
hold significance not only for Russia, the Russian world, and the Russian
civilisation, but also extend far beyond the borders of our country. Today, they
resonate with a new Global Majority that aligns with your ideas and approaches.
This is not the Anglo-Saxon world. This is the Global South: Africa, Latin
America, and most of Eurasia. </p><p>These nations did not want to cede control over
their destinies and development to Washington. Neither did they want to perpetuate a unipolar world, a world based on blood, as we saw in Yugoslavia in 1999, in Iraq in 2003, and later in Libya. In Syria, Russia’s involvement
prevented the developments from following the same blood-drenched scenario,
where the “unwanted” regimes and their leaders faced obliteration. </p><p>Today, a new Global Majority is undeniably
emerging, with Russia as the focal point within this evolving global political
landscape and system of international relations. This heralds the establishment
of a stable, secure and well-balanced architecture for the new century. All of this is taking shape around your ideas and approaches. This is why I want to say that this is indeed a historic campaign. It is for this reason that
national leaders are extending warm congratulations, a gesture likely to continue
for quite some time. </p><p>As for our party’s campaign, I said
at the outset that I was not going to say anything about the provisions
contained in its programme in advance. We outlined these provisions after
visiting many regions, based on what we heard from people there. I think that
with your high-level involvement in coordinating our efforts, we will work
together and seek each other’s advice on these matters. This way, we can find
solutions and overcome challenges without waiting for the special military
operation to come to an end. No doubt, these are very, or should I say
extremely, sensitive matters for our people.</p><p>It so happens that, in itself, the Address to the Federal Assembly is not an address. I tend to refer to it as a national and social development programme, for the next six-year cycle, and even longer. It presents a policy-setting vision, which explains why it is so
long. This is how we view it. In fact, the key reference points, and the basic
points you made in this Address coincided with what we have been saying during
the campaign, me included, starting with the Shoulder to Shoulder concept. This
was the message I sent to the people of Russia last year – everyone regardless
of their party affiliation, age, where they live or what religion they follow.
Russians have always closed ranks and stood shoulder to shoulder when facing
hardship and when the moment of truth was upon us.</p><p>All our parliamentary political
parties, and not only them, answered this call – everyone who cares about
Russia’s future. At the end of the day, this is what matters to us, rather than
all these rubles, tonnes and kilometres – the people. We care for the people,
and live and work for them. In fact, serving people is the reason for the existence of any political party. Vladimir Zhirinovsky kept teaching us to make
sure that no family and not a single person was left behind. We remain true to his teachings. It is for this reason that our party enjoys upward momentum,
even if we have a lot of work ahead of us.</p><p>As for the reference points, there
are a lot of questions in this regard. Of course, we need to rely on those who
went through the special military operation and to whom we can entrust our
lives when staffing government and public institutions. This is a very
important point. These are great people, and many of those who have already
returned from the special military operation are now enrolling at universities or plan to do so. We have a permanent presence on the frontlines.</p><p>The new regions are another major
topic. We must understand that everything important taking place in our country
in the years to come will happen in these regions. Today, we not only need to work on rebuilding infrastructure, but also to reach out to people in order to fulfil their aspirations in terms of making life better in these regions,
considering their immense potential, and we must restore manufacturing and address many other issues.</p><p><i>(Leonid Slutsky went on to talk
about increasing the minimum wage, supporting families with many children,
problems in the utilities sector, supporting small businesses, the lack of medical workers in the regions, ensuring equal pay for public sector employees
across Russia, and food prices.)</i></p><p>Young people are leaving rural areas.
They graduate from school and leave for big cities to study at universities. We
have tried different approaches to overcome this challenge (it has so far remained
unresolved). The goal is to achieve a sizable mortgage rate cut for rural
youth. I declared 2024 the Year of Rural Youth for the LDPR. In that case, indeed,
after finishing school, young people will be able to build a house of their own
on entirely different terms and stay in the places where they were born. And that
will later lead to agricultural companies, jobs, and space for creative
activity.</p><p>Otherwise, it will be just like you
warned in your 2012 pre-election article “Building Justice: A Social Policy for Russia.” It has a section titled “Conservation of Russia” that I like a lot. I can say it is my go-to article.</p><p>If we continue down that road, we may
end up with empty spaces between metropolitan areas. In general, we need to focus
on the compatriots who are willing to return, among other things. Sergei Kiriyenko
has authored a brilliant programme “Russia – Land of Opportunity.” However, only
70 people from the international bloc receive Russian passports annually.</p><p>We need to return those who have
been registered with our consular offices for many years now and to address
these issues in order not to turn into a “barren space” (verbatim quote), “whose
fate will be decided by someone else, not us,” as you wrote in this article.</p><p>Certainly, we will not go along with
this apocalyptic scenario, but we need to work on this matter. Among other
things, importantly, rural youth should stop leaving rural areas which is
something we can make happen in a matter of few years, if we are being realistic.</p><p>The same holds true for the Far
East. As chairman of the corresponding State Duma Committee, Mr Kharitonov will
support me if I say that we need to gradually increase wages. Young people
should aspire to make it through this tough but important professional school, aspire
to work in the Far East, rather than leave it because of low wages.</p><p>All of these issues can be resolved within
several years as part of a phased approach if we go industry by industry and by important infrastructure companies as key points. The point is to do it
gradually. We have a separate vision for that as well. I have shared with you only
a portion of our programme. We will certainly implement it. The country needs
it, and the people need it.</p><p>The programme is absolutely clear and outlines a clear vision of what exactly should be done in cooperation with the Government.
We will report to you on the most important issues in order to achieve step-by-step
implementation as soon as possible. It is possible to do a lot already this
year.</p><p>A few words about the coincidence of these
reference points with the Address. We did not exchange views on the goals until
today. We are just now synchronising our approaches on this. So, the conclusion
is very simple – this shows that we are on the right track.</p><p>And, indeed, these are anchor points, underlying
problems that must be resolved immediately and that are of prime concern to our
people, our population – those for whom we work as political parties. This is why
we must deal with them immediately.</p><p>The LDPR is continuing to work hard now. I will
repeat – as Vladimir Zhirinovsky taught us, we are in touch with everyone. We never
opt for formal replies. In 48 hours, I respond to everyone despite the enormous
increase in messages, working for the party to be a reliable political force
today. And this is how we are going to continue working, getting in touch with
every person and every family with a view to resolving these problems.</p><p>Briefly, I guess that’s all.</p><p>Thank you.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Thank you.</p><p>Mr Slutsky, you have raised a number of issues.
All of them are important, but I will draw your attention to two of them.</p><p>Mr Kharitonov mentioned this earlier – the need
to even out the incomes in the social sector in different regions of the Russian Federation. But this goal is also linked with another issue – the source of funding. I spoke about this in the Address as well. I am referring to the proposals on amending the tax system. It is necessary to be very careful in this respect. We must create a system that we will not change. It must remain stable
for at least six years.</p><p>This point was made today. The CPRF has always
said that the tax system must be fair. We have had many disputes in this respect.
But, as you can see, we have approached this very carefully.</p><p>This issue will give rise to serious debate in parliament.
The Government will come up with its own solutions – how, from whom and how
much.</p><p>We must be very careful in doing this, but our decisions
must be coordinated.</p><p>I am hoping that all political parties represented
in parliament will deal with these problems very seriously, that you will
involve analysts and other specialists – we have plenty of them in this country.
I am hoping that all of us will find a middle ground and will find these coordinated
solutions.</p><p>Thank you very much.</p><p>Mr Davankov, go ahead, please.</p><p><b>Vladislav Davankov</b>: Mr President,</p><p>Congratulations on your landslide
victory.</p><p><b>Vladimir</b> <b>Putin</b>:
Thank you.</p><p><b>Vladislav</b> <b>Davankov</b>: I will try to be
brief.</p><p>This week, the Kiev regime has again
been cowardly attacking the Belgorod Region. My team and I happened to be in Belgorod on December 31, 2023. Following another night-time attack, our
volunteers were helping clear the debris, and we met with the families of the civilians
who died in the attack. These were truly despicable strikes. I am here to tell
you that these actions by the Kiev regime had absolutely no justification.</p><p>I travelled through 29 regions
during this campaign, and in all regions people are working for our common
victory. Everyone is doing their best. As a parliamentary party, we are also
trying hard to do as much as we can. I oversee the Lugansk People's Republic as part of my party work, and I go there occasionally. There are several projects,
such as People's First Aid Kits, which help our servicemen. Under these challenging
circumstances, we are constantly sending them humanitarian supplies.</p><p>You were absolutely right when you said
that our common goal is to come out victorious in the special military
operation and to achieve lasting peace. I also mentioned this during the campaign. I said it was crucial not to pass this confrontation on to the next
generation, but to resolve it ourselves.</p><p>Frankly, the people I met with sincerely
said and believed that you are the only person who can win this confrontation
as the leader of the country. Actually, the elections have clearly shown it. I have held more than a hundred meetings, and many people said they would vote
for Vladimir Putin, and asked me to help them solve some issues in return. I have more than a thousand such questions now.</p><p>We took care of some of them on the spot, such as helping a woman register as a mother with many children, and some
remained unresolved. My team and I will continue to address them.</p><p>Immediately after the Address to the Federal Assembly, I went to Rostov to meet with entrepreneurs. First, they shared
stories of support that they provide to our military. They applauded when you mentioned
amnesty for business fragmentation. This is the first feedback.</p><p>With regard to other areas, you may
be aware that the New People Party works extensively with young people, and we
have quite a few young activists. Of course, they were excited to learn that
there would be a national youth project. They are primarily talking about fulfilling
their professional potential. We have good young people who want to grow
professionally and work in Russia, in their respective cities. The things we
discussed, matters of personal fulfilment are very important, of course.</p><p>They say they want families of their
own. Mr Kharitonov spoke about mortgages today. Of course, having a home of their
own is a top question. They want to leave their parents’ home and build their
own nest. This is one of the questions. I have them all there, I have drawn up a list. I think we will team up with the Government to work them through in order
to identify solutions, because no solution is easy and each one comes at a cost.
But Russia knows examples where the demographic issue was properly addressed. For example, on Sakhalin in the early 2010s, when such support led to a sharp surge
in the birth rate, and our people started families.</p><p>I would like to congratulate you
once again on your victory, a landslide victory. My team and I will continue to work on the issues that were designated during these meetings.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>: Thank you very much.</p><p><…></p> Meeting with permanent members of the Security Councilhttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736572024-03-15T21:08:55+04:002024-03-15T17:45:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>The President held a meeting with permanent members of the Security Council via videoconference.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/npSPwuZBwrms4YisMjWrn0r0CUK5PHJv.jpg" alt="Meeting with permanent members of the Security Council (via videoconference)." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>The President held a meeting with permanent members of the Security Council via videoconference.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/npSPwuZBwrms4YisMjWrn0r0CUK5PHJv.jpg" alt="Meeting with permanent members of the Security Council (via videoconference)." /> <p>The meeting
was attended by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Federation Council Speaker
Valentina Matviyenko, State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Anton Vaino, Secretary of the Security
Council Nikolai Patrushev, Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev, Foreign
Minister Sergei Lavrov, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, Director of the Federal
Security Service Alexander Bortnikov, Director of the Foreign Intelligence
Service Sergei Naryshkin, and Special Presidential Representative for Environmental Protection, Ecology and Transport Sergei Ivanov.</p><p>* * *</p><p><b>President
of Russia
Vladimir Putin:</b> Good
afternoon, colleagues.</p><p>As you
know, today the presidential election started in our country in accordance with
the Constitution of Russia.</p><p>To disrupt the election process and intimidate people, at least in the areas bordering Ukraine, the neo-Nazi Kiev regime has planned and is trying to carry
out a number of demonstrative criminal armed actions. It is primarily striking civilian
residential areas in Russian territory. </p><p>About 95 percent
of the enemy missiles and shells are being destroyed by our air defence
systems. Nevertheless, unfortunately, we still have civilian casualties. All of them, and their families, will be given every necessary support and assistance.
These enemy strikes do not and will not go unpunished.</p><p>In addition,
starting March 12 of this year and until now, our adversary has made several attempts
to enter and gain a foothold on our territory, mostly by using special units,
foreign mercenaries and support forces from the Armed Forces of Ukraine. They have
carried out several subversive terrorist attacks – four in the Belgorod
direction and one in the Kursk
direction – with the aim of entering Russian territory and gaining a foothold
on it.</p><p>The enemy used
the following forces and equipment: over 2,500 personnel, 35 tanks, and about
40 combat vehicles. It did not achieve success in a single direction. It was
rebuffed and forced to retreat, or flee, to be more precise, with heavy losses.
The adversary lost about 60 percent of its personnel and over 50 percent of its
armoured vehicles.</p><p>As I said earlier,
these militarily senseless and humanitarianly criminal actions were aimed at disrupting
the elections for the President of Russia. </p><p>I am confident – our people, the people of Russia
will respond to this with even greater cohesion. Who did they decide to scare? The Russian people? The multi-ethnic people of Russia? This has never happened and,
I know, will never happen.</p><p>One more possible
goal for these attacks is to sidetrack the attention of their own people and the people in other countries whom the Kiev
regime is trying to beg, humiliatingly, for money or any kind of handout. The regime
also wants to divert attention from the real state of affairs at the battle line
where the Russian Armed Forces are confidently holding the initiative and showing
courage and heroism, fulfilling their combat missions.</p><p>They are thereby
creating the necessary, basic conditions for ensuring the security of Russia,
the domestic political stability of our state and, eventually for reaching our national
development goals, for the future of our Motherland, which will certainly be
ensured despite any attempt by our enemies and ill-wishers.</p><p>I would like
to ask the Defence Minister [Sergei Shoigu] to report on the current situation.
</p><p>Go ahead
please.</p><p><…></p> Meeting with Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolayevhttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736532024-03-15T16:06:37+04:002024-03-14T18:25:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin had a working meeting, via videoconference, with Head of the Republic of Sakha
(Yakutia) Aisen Nikolayev. The discussion focused on the region’s socioeconomic
development.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/W3j9I0JS260l4sDTs5AKWdb3kywQ2vKo.jpg" alt="Meeting with Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolayev (via videoconference)." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin had a working meeting, via videoconference, with Head of the Republic of Sakha
(Yakutia) Aisen Nikolayev. The discussion focused on the region’s socioeconomic
development.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/W3j9I0JS260l4sDTs5AKWdb3kywQ2vKo.jpg" alt="Meeting with Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolayev (via videoconference)." /> <p>At the beginning of the conversation, the President noted that preparations were being
made for his working trip to the republic and in order to identify the facilities that should be visited and the problems that should be addressed,
they should discuss which avenues were crucial for the region’s development.</p><p>Aisen
Nikolayev said that all important aspects had to do with the current boom in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). In 2023, the gross regional product exceeded 2.3
trillion rubles, and in the first two months of 2024, industrial growth
amounted to 13.5 percent. Yakutia is the fifth largest oil and gas producer,
the third in coal, the second in gold, and the top supplier of diamonds, not
only in Russia, but throughout the world. Investment activity is at a high
level with 722 billion [rubles] invested last year.</p><p>According
to the head of Yakutia, the population of the republic reached a million people
last year; every fifth family has many children, and the regional government is
implementing local measures to support families with children in addition to federal ones. Over the past six years, several large medical centres have been
built in Yakutia, including a perinatal unit, a cardiovascular centre, and a cancer clinic, but the region is still in need of a local hospital for infectious
diseases; the project is at the design stage. The newly deployed rural health
centres, outpatient clinics, district hospitals, and large regional centres
have had a palpable effect on the public health situation. For the first time
in the history of Yakutia, life expectancy exceeded the national average and reached
73.67 years in November. The goal is to reach 80 years or more by 2030.</p><p>Aisen
Nikolayev singled out the fight against poverty as one of the region’s
priorities. The goal is to halve the current poverty rate of 15 percent in the next
few years, and to reduce it by two-thirds among large families.</p><p>According
to the head of Yakutia, in recent years, a total of 329 large social facilities
have been built under national projects and regional programmes. At the same
time, Aisen Nikolayev admitted that the regional government needed assistance in building more housing to relocate residents from dilapidated and emergency buildings.</p><p>They also
discussed the progress of major investment projects, in particular, the Chayandinskoye oil and gas condensate field and the Elga field, which currently
sends 28 million tonnes of coking coal to the world markets. Five factories with
a total capacity of 24.5 million tonnes have already been launched. This year, there
will be two more, with a capacity of 15 million tonnes. A 530-kilometre railway
is under construction. Next year, 15 million tonnes [of freight] will be
transported, and from 2026, the plan is to increase this amount to 40 million
tonnes. The Elga deep-water port, which is being built in the Khabarovsk
Territory, is designed to transship up to 50 million tonnes of coal. This year,
the region will begin the construction of the largest diamond mine,
Mir-Gluboky, which will ensure the future of diamond mining for the next 50 years.</p><p>The Head of the Republic said that they will need
to discuss the investment cycle and its future during the President’s visit. In the diamond mining sector, these cycles are very long and take 10 to 15 years,
which means that decisions must be taken today. Otherwise, after 2030 we will
have to face the fact that there will be no new deposits in operation as the old
ones will have become depleted. The visit’s agenda must also include building a small nuclear power plant in Yakutia to support several major mining projects.
In addition to this, there is a need to address other energy-related matters,
as well as efforts to develop Yakutia’s transport system, including building
the Lena bridge, which will make a major difference for all of northeast
Russia. Head of Yakutia Aisen Nikolayev also mentioned building higher
education facilities and asked the President to support these plans.</p><p>Aisen Nikolayev went on to brief the President
on efforts to promote the digital transition in his region. Over the past six
years, they have laid 10,000 km of fibre optic cables and will need to extend
this network by another 6,000 km in order to cover the Yakutian Arctic, as well
as parts of the Magadan Region and the Chukotka Autonomous Area, and to connect
it to the underwater fibre optic cable along the Northern Sea Route. These
projects are scheduled to be completed by the end of 2026 and will greatly
enhance national telecommunications security. </p><p>Yakutia has adopted a proactive approach
towards the special military operation, just like the entire country. Aisen
Nikolayev described social support measures for the families of service
personnel. He emphasised that people from the Republic have demonstrated
heroism on the battlefield, and six Yakutians have received the Hero of Russia
title.</p><p>Aisen Nikolayev also talked about Yakutia
assuming patronage over the Donetsk People’s Republic. They have completed the programme to rebuild Kirovskoye and created the first IT centre in the DPR. A Yakutian eye clinic has opened a branch office there, and has already treated 10,000
patients and performed over 2,000 eye surgeries.</p><p>Vladimir Putin thanked the Republic and its
representatives for their support and for fulfilling their mission and duty to their Motherland along the line of contact and the frontlines. They have
demonstrated heroism, the President said, and asked the Head of the Republic to support their families.</p><p> As for the urgent challenges Yakutia is facing
today, the President said that he would ask the Government to look into all the issues Aisen Nikolayev raised during their conversation before the meeting in the republic. The President expressed confidence that the necessary decisions
will be taken on all the key issues to ensure the Republic’s sustained and steady development.</p> Meeting with Government membershttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736522024-03-14T22:20:42+04:002024-03-14T17:40:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin held a videoconference
meeting with the Government members.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/b7iayZpSSuP7nnAd8sSwIAZ9s0qe2AJH.jpg" alt="Participants in the meeting with Government members." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>Vladimir Putin held a videoconference
meeting with the Government members.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/b7iayZpSSuP7nnAd8sSwIAZ9s0qe2AJH.jpg" alt="Participants in the meeting with Government members." /> <p>The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Chief
of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Anton Vaino, First
Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov, First Deputy Chief of Staff
of the Presidential Executive Office Sergei Kiriyenko, Deputy Prime
Minister – Chief of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko, Deputy
Prime Minister – Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov, Deputy Prime
Minister – Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Far Eastern
Federal District Yury Trutnev, deputy prime ministers Viktoria Abramchenko,
Tatyana Golikova, Alexander Novak, Alexei Overchuk, Marat Khusnullin, Dmitry
Chernyshenko, Presidential Aide Maxim Oreshkin, Minister of Economic
Development Maxim Reshetnikov, and Minister of Finance Anton Siluanov. Minister
of Natural Resources and Environment Alexander Kozlov, Minister of Labour and Social Protection Anton Kotyakov, Minister of Education Sergei Kravtsov,
Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova, Minister of Healthcare Mikhail Murashko,
Minister of Construction, Housing and Utilities Irek Fayzullin, and Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov were also invited to attend.</p><p>The discussion focused on the status of implementing the goals in the President’s
Address to the Federal Assembly.</p><p>First Deputy Prime Minister
Andrei Belousov gave the main report on the factors that will ensure economic
growth. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov
spoke on how to ensure technological sovereignty in the key areas of industrial
production. Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova devoted her report to the implementation of the projects and the presidential instructions in the social
sector. Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko reported on the plans for the construction and development of the university campuses system. Deputy Prime Minister
Marat Khusnullin spoke about the programme for comprehensive development of 2,000 populated localities in Russia and the modernisation of the housing and utilities system. Deputy Prime Minister Viktoria Abramchenko reported on environmental
issues, including the requirement to reduce harmful emissions into the atmosphere
and reduce the pollution of major water reservoirs. She also spoke about the importance
of creating a closed-cycle economy, preserving the diversity of nature and developing environmental tourism. </p><p>* * *</p><p><b>President of Russia
Vladimir Putin: </b>Good
afternoon, colleagues.</p><p>I suggest discussing our plans in light of the <a href="/events/president/news/73652">Address</a> to the Federal
Assembly which included the national development programme. It is in fact a comprehensive action plan to be implemented in the coming years and in the medium term.</p><p>Specific goals have been set in demographics, public health, education,
child and youth upbringing, and professional education. Specific goals have
been identified to reinforce the country’s technological sovereignty and to develop
new digital platforms, to improve the urban and rural infrastructure, and to enhance
transport and other infrastructure.</p><p>New national projects will be launched as early as next year to address
these and other key areas.</p><p>In this regard, I would like to add that we have created a fairly steady
and reliable foundation to achieve these goals. The ongoing economic trends
give us reason to believe that all of this is indeed achievable and that the plans we discussed are quite actionable.</p><p>As you are aware, in February, retail price increases slowed, inflation
stabilised at 0.7 percent in February and even reached zero in the first couple
of weeks of this month. Of course, in weekly terms, these figures are somewhat approximate
and volatile, but nevertheless, this is how things are. Economic growth for January stood at 4.6 percent. GDP growth for the previous year was 3.6 percent,
which is a satisfactory and quite a good indicator overall. In January, it was
4.6 percent which makes sense since this is just the beginning of the year.</p><p>If I am
mistaken about something, my colleagues will correct me. That said, the trends that
we are now seeing give us grounds to say that the plans suggested in the Address
to the Federal Assembly are quite feasible. And it is necessary to start this work
immediately.</p><p>In the process,
it is important to ensure the detailed planning of all elements of the national
projects. This planning must coordinate the actions of all levels of government, from municipal to federal. It should coordinate every effort, from
the adoption of strategic decisions to practical implementation in every
individual area. </p><p>Using, of course,
the Government’s extensive experience, it is necessary to develop an integrated
national project management system, use digital tools to monitor implementation
and results and rely – as we keep saying – on the opinions of the people, on feedback from the public. All national projects must be aimed at reaching the national
development goals. There is absolutely no room for old parochial approaches.</p><p>I will repeat
that one of the Government’s jobs is to ensure smooth interaction, close coordination
of government bodies, economic and social sectors, the business community,
science, education, business associations and other institutions in civic society.
And, of course, the regions across the Federation must play a tangible and largely
key role in drafting and implementing these national projects.</p><p>In this context,
I suggest holding next May a joint meeting of the State Council and the Council
for Strategic Development and National Projects, with the participation of regional
governors. I believe it would be appropriate to discuss how to fulfil the assigned
tasks on the ground, so to speak, in specific regions of the Federation, as well as to determine what additional tools will be needed to achieve the practical,
tangible results that the Russian people are waiting for. </p><p>I would like
to ask the Government to define its main approaches and principles as regards
the implementation of the new national projects before the end of April. We will
also discuss this issue separately in the next few meetings.</p><p>I know that
our Government colleagues have already started this work. We met with the Prime
Minister yesterday and discussed this. I think it is time to proceed with the practical
work in every area.</p><p>Let’s get started
on today’s meeting, please.</p><p>I am giving
the floor to First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov. Go ahead,
please.</p><p><b>First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov</b>: Mr President, Mr Prime Minister, colleagues.</p><p>The Presidential Address to the Federal Assembly has articulated a key goal that must be achieved in the economic sphere by 2030. Notably, our country must become one of the top four
largest global economies.</p><p>As you know, the Russian economy
ranks fifth in GDP in terms of purchasing power parity. Our calculations show
that Russia can become the fourth largest economy in the world outperforming
Japan, provided it keeps growing sustainably by at least 2 percent annually and gradually accelerate to 3 percent by the end of the period. Overall, the country’s GDP should increase by about 20 percent by 2030.</p><p>I would like to briefly focus on five main mechanisms that will help us make this happen.</p><p>The first is to boost labour
productivity, which was extensively covered in the address. This is critically
important given the labour shortages. Furthermore, high labour productivity is
the way forward to ensure sustainable real wage growth and the demand for Russian-made goods and services.</p><p><i>(According to Belousov, this will involve a large-scale reengineering of business processes at enterprises in core non-raw materials sectors of the economy and the social sphere. By 2030, the project will cover at least 12,000
enterprises, twice the current number, and all 288,000 social institutions. It
is also imperative to expand the use of digital technology. In this regard, the effektivnost.rf platform, launched in the autumn of 2023, showcasing the best
practices in domestic digital solutions, plays a key role. By 2030, the platform will have featured approximately 600 services and standard solutions.)</i></p><p>The second mechanism includes ensuring
investment growth. Today, investment activity is high and reflects the large scale
of the ongoing structural overhaul of the economy. Based on 2023 data,
investment in fixed capital increased by 9.8 percent, which is almost triple of the GDP growth rate. The goal is to maintain the outstripping growth of investment throughout the 2025–2030 period.</p><p><i>(To achieve this, the First Deputy Prime Minister said, the focus will
be on ensuring a predictable environment for investors. Additionally, efforts
will continue to implement the regional investment standard. Currently, this
standard has been introduced in 85 regions and endorsed by businesses. In 2023,
the four new regions – the Lugansk and Donetsk people’s republics, and the Kherson
and Zaporozhye regions – joined this effort. They will implement this tool by June 2024. It is likewise imperative to stimulate investment by providing
investment tax deductions and ensuring the stability of the financial market,
which will make it possible to transform savings into investment in the Russian
economy. The capitalisation of the Russian stock market in 2023 stood at about
34 percent of GDP. By 2030, it should reach 66 percent. On January 1, the Long-Term Individual Savings Programme was launched, a new type of individual
investment account has been introduced, and simplified access to the Russian
financial market was provided for foreign financial organisations from friendly
countries.)</i></p><p>The third mechanism
is support and build-up of non-primary non-energy exports in the markets of friendly
countries. In accordance with the address [to the Federal Assembly], the volume
of these exports must increase at least by two thirds and exports in the agro-industrial sector must go up by 50 percent. This is a very high, ambitious goal. </p><p>Support for exporting companies will be allocated at all stages of their export project
cycles. The promotion of Russian products in external markets will be ensured
by providing them with preferential, investment, pre-export and trade
financing.</p><p>Special emphasis
will be placed on promoting Russian goods and brands under the aegis of the ‘Made
in Russia’ programme. Early this year, the first Made in Russia festival-and-fair
took place in China with great success.</p><p>Russian producers
will be helped in adapting their products to the requirements of new markets by the certification and homologation of their goods. </p><p>The development
of the required infrastructure not only inside the country but also in friendly
countries is a major goal. The plans include assistance for private businesses
in establishing transport and logistics centers, industrial zones and the necessary
port, storage and demonstration facilities abroad. Moreover, Russian exporters
will be reimbursed for part of their transport expenses.</p><p>The fourth
mechanism for expediting growth is support for small and medium-sized
companies. By 2030, their share of profit per employee is supposed to grow by at least 23 percent over 2023. This is faster than GDP growth rates by 20
percent. </p><p><i>(Further,
Andrei Belousov explained what measures are required to reach this goal. Thus,
he spoke about expanding financial support for small and medium-sized companies,
developing quality infrastructure, creating a uniform digital system of measures for federal and regional support of small businesses, encouraging them
to enter global markets and simplifying the terms for creating new businesses).</i> </p><p>And, finally,
the fifth mechanism is the implementation of import substitution projects. Of course, import substitution as such is not an end in itself. However, within
reasonable limits, it delivers on two targets at once: promoting economic
sovereignty and stimulating growth.</p><p>Import substitution
will be achieved with two main groups of measures.</p><p>The first
group includes system-wide import substitution measures for a broad range of products. These include preferential loans, including those under the cluster investment
platform and the Industrial Development Fund, as well as subsidies for research
and development.</p><p>The second group
of measures is the launch of technological sovereignty projects as described in the address [to the Federal Assembly]. Each of them is aimed at manufacturing
specific lines of high-tech products based on their own developments. These
projects are distinguished by the provision of guaranteed demand for critical
technology development, training of personnel and special support measures.
Tentatively, there will be 12 projects in this category, including machine-tool
construction and robotics, new materials and chemicals, provision of food
security, and new medical technology. The relevant deputy prime ministers will supervise
these projects.</p><p>Mr President,
the use of these mechanisms will allow the Russian economy to respond to current
and future challenges. They will carry it on a trajectory of subsequent sustainable
growth and allow it to reach the key goals set in the economic part of the Address
of the President of the Russian Federation to the Federal Assembly.</p><p>Thank you
for your attention.</p><p><b>Vladimir Putin</b>:
Thank you.</p><p>How many small
businesses were established in our country last year? I believe, 1.2 million.</p><p><b>Andrei Belousov</b>: About 1.5 million, something close
to this number.</p><p>Last year
was unique in this respect. We intend to maintain this trend today. However, it
can only be maintained with the help of the new instruments that we are now
developing. </p><p><b>Vladimir
Putin</b>: Yes, it was unique,
indeed, because our companies replaced what was produced earlier by the foreign
participants in the market of economic activity. In my opinion, substitution went
very well. In many cases, we even improved the quality of some products and reduced the delivery time to the market. It was a good job.</p><p>Thank you.</p><p><…></p> The launch of a high-speed railway between Moscow and St Petersburg and the 7th power unit at the Leningrad NPPhttp://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/736512024-03-14T22:21:55+04:002024-03-14T15:55:00+04:00<div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>The President took part,
via videoconference, in a ceremony to launch the full-scale implementation of the project to build a high-speed railway between Moscow and St Petersburg and to pour cement into the foundation of the nuclear island for the 7th power unit
at the Leningrad NPP.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/x5TMR6qNL1egsVBqcAH6MGZpYwiNnDZQ.jpg" alt="In a ceremony to launch the full-scale implementation of the project to build a high-speed railway between Moscow and St Petersburg and to pour cement into the foundation of the nuclear island for the 7th power unit at the Leningrad NPP." /> <div class="c-summary" style="font-size: 1.2em"><p>The President took part,
via videoconference, in a ceremony to launch the full-scale implementation of the project to build a high-speed railway between Moscow and St Petersburg and to pour cement into the foundation of the nuclear island for the 7th power unit
at the Leningrad NPP.</p></div> <img src="http://static.kremlin.ru/media/events/photos/small/x5TMR6qNL1egsVBqcAH6MGZpYwiNnDZQ.jpg" alt="In a ceremony to launch the full-scale implementation of the project to build a high-speed railway between Moscow and St Petersburg and to pour cement into the foundation of the nuclear island for the 7th power unit at the Leningrad NPP." /> <p>The railway line
will pass through six areas with a population of about 30 million – [the cities
of] Moscow and St Petersburg and the Leningrad, Novgorod, Tver and Moscow
regions. The new railway will cut travel time between the two capitals to two
hours and 15 minutes if the train runs with no stops en route.</p><p>The Leningrad NPP
opened in 1973 and has been generating 55 percent of the electricity needs of St Petersburg and the Leningrad Region. The 7th power unit is scheduled to be
launched in 2030. It is being constructed with the use of cutting-edge
technology that meets international and Russian safety requirements.</p><p>* * *</p><p><b>President of Russia Vladimir Putin</b>: Good afternoon, colleagues.</p><p>Today we will launch two major construction projects: the 7th power unit at the Leningrad Nuclear Power Plant and a high-speed railway between Moscow and St Petersburg.</p><p>Both of them require
a lot of hard work. I wish success to everyone who will take part in these
projects. I am confident that all our plans will be implemented at the highest
professional level.</p><p>I would like to point out that these two projects are extremely important for our economy and industry, for building up our infrastructure, technological and energy potential, for developing our regions and improving the quality of people’s lives.</p><p>It is necessary to emphasise that we must use primarily Russian solutions and equipment during construction. This is crucial for the further strengthening of the country’s technological independence.</p><p>I would like to remind you that this task was set in my Address to the Federal Assembly, when I also announced the launch of national projects aimed at our technological sovereignty, including regarding all types of transport, as well as nuclear and energy technologies, where domestic technologies account for 99 percent of the solutions. The implementation of these projects will become a powerful impetus for the technological modernisation of industry and the qualitative growth of our economy as a whole. </p><p>I would like
to note that Russia is the world leader in nuclear technology. We are helping
foreign countries develop their nuclear energy industry almost from scratch. An entire industry is being built; specialists undergo training and the infrastructure is developed in conformity with the strictest environmental
standards. Today, Rosatom is building 22 energy units in seven countries.</p><p>We are also
active in developing the nuclear energy industry inside the country. We are planning
to bring the share of nuclear power generation in Russia’s overall energy
balance to 25 percent by 2045.</p><p>A new, efficient
energy unit at the Leningrad Nuclear Power Plant will be a good contribution to these efforts. Its launch will enhance energy security in the entire
Northwestern Federal District of Russia and will provide consumers with
greener, cleaner electricity for years ahead. </p><p>In general,
the opening of new social and industrial facilities and the implementation of large infrastructure projects, including high-speed railways, largely depend on the development of the nuclear power industry and other generating capacities
throughout the country. </p><p>As I mentioned
earlier, the railway between Moscow and St Petersburg will become a flagship,
starting stage in this respect. It will pass through six regions of the Federation
with about 30 million people. This is around 20 percent of Russia’s entire population.</p><p>In perspective,
such dedicated high-speed routes will also connect other Russian regions and will facilitate the growth of tourism and business activity.</p><p>What else
is important to note? The high-speed railway project implies large-scale
production cooperation and the participation of many labour collectives and engineering teams. Hence, it will provide many branches of our economy with a good impetus for development. We will take one more step towards strengthening
our national technological sovereignty. </p><p>We recently
discussed with our colleagues the main approaches to fulfilling this large
project. Now it is time to move to practical implementation. However, I must say – and everyone involved in this work knows – that we discussed this subject a long time ago. But now we are financially, economically and technologically
mature enough to carry out this large and necessary project for our economy.
Let’s get started.</p><p><…></p>