Vanguard News Network
VNN Media
VNN Digital Library
VNN Reader Mail
VNN Broadcasts

Old May 30th, 2018 #841
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Presentation of state decorations to members of the international investment community



Vladimir Putin bestowed state decorations of the Russian Federation on members of the international investment community.



May 24, 2018 - 23:25 - St Petersburg







The President of Russia presented the Order of Friendship to two investors from Bahrain and Kuwait. The award ceremony was held at the Constantine Palace on the sidelines of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Good afternoon, friends,

It gives me great pleasure to see you here today. I would like to address my first words to our colleagues to whom I will present the Order of Friendship of the Russian Federation, which is a pleasant mission for me.

I would like to thank you for being guided by long-term interests in developing relations between Russia and your respective countries despite the challenging international and economic environment and the ongoing developments. You took into consideration not only a medium-term outlook, but looked further ahead by placing trust in your Russian partners as you undertook ambitious and inspiring major projects. I believe that all your undertakings were a great success.







I do hope that your example will catch on, in a positive way, so that more and more of your colleagues from around the world follow your lead.

Cooperation between Russia and its partners will steadily develop, yielding real, tangible benefits for our economies and people.

I would like to thank you once again for working with Russia and I propose that we move on to the solemn and agreeable part of the event.

Ceremony for presenting state decorations.

Thank you. Congratulations!




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57546






Meeting with RDIF Advisory Board members and representatives of international investment community



Vladimir Putin met with members of the International Advisory Board of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) and representatives of the international investment community.



May 24, 2018 - 23:45 - St Petersburg








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Colleagues, friends, I would like to welcome you once again at this expanded meeting.

I want to congratulate once again those of our colleagues who have been decorated with the Order of Friendship for their efforts to promote large investment projects.

First of all, I would like to say that I am sorry for taking so long, because we have just completed talks with the French delegation and President [Emmanuel] Macron. As an explanation for being late, I can say that my colleagues and I, as we say jokingly, do not have anything concrete to do, which is why we love to talk and dream, and that takes a long time. Unlike us, you have concrete responsibilities for concrete work that is worth millions, hundreds of millions or even billions of dollars.







I know that many things have changed since our meeting last year, and they have changed for the better. Our cooperation is improving and moving forward, which is good news.

I know that you continue working actively with our sovereign fund, the Russian Direct Investment Fund. I would like to say in this connection that the returns on investment you make together with the RDIF are higher than the world’s average.







The projects you are implementing are highly reliable. We are trying to provide government assistance to these projects, doing everything in our power to guarantee their reliability and effectiveness.

I hope we will continue to work in the same manner to further expand our interaction.

I give the floor to [RDIF CEO Kirill] Dmitriev now. After he concludes his opening remarks, we will exchange views on the current state of affairs and our plans for the future.







Russian Direct Investment Fund CEO Kirill Dmitriev:

Mr President, colleagues,

Mr President, I would like to thank you on behalf of all investors present here for these regular meetings and for your support for the Russian Direct Investment Fund. These meetings are very productive, because investors can use them to learn about Russia’s economic development priorities and to choose the most promising investment areas. Also, investors can exchange views and experience of their countries’ breakthrough development. This is especially important now, when Russia is focused on breakthrough development in infrastructure and technology.

The RDIF and its partners have invested 1.2 trillion rubles in over 50 projects in Russia, with 90 percent of the amount provided by our partners. The fund and its partners, who are present here, plan to invest another 1.5 trillion rubles within two years.







We have attracted over $40 billion to joint funds, with $4 billion investment via the automatic co-investment mechanism. As Mr President has said, returns on our investment are higher than those of other funds and indices. In particular, the partners who are attending this meeting provide 90 percent of all direct investment in Russia. The revenues of our portfolio companies are worth more than 5 percent of Russia’s GDP.

Today we have announced 12 investment deals for various sectors. These include the company Deliver, which offers efficient cargo transportation services for small and medium-sized companies, and a project to create robotic surgical systems, which will reduce the cost of surgery many times. We will work with TH Milk to invest $600 million in Russia’s dairy sector. There are also six investment deals, which have been concluded with our French partners who met with President Putin today. These plans also include oncology treatment centres. Two of them have been built in the Moscow Region, and there will be 50 of them altogether across Russia. Today we started working with the Central Bank to form a fund for holding the non-core assets of lending institutions, in which you can also invest.







We worked with you to invest in the development of infrastructure, such as the Central Ring Road, the Odintsovo Bypass, and a project to build a Northern bypass to Kutuzovsky Avenue. We have estimated Russia’s current infrastructure investment requirements at 2 trillion rubles a year. Today we will discuss increasing Russia’s sovereign debt to invest more in infrastructure. We are working closely with the Finance Ministry in this respect.

In conclusion, I would like to say that investment in technology is extremely important. We have created a network of seven partners, which allows us to choose the best technology projects in Russia and implement them in all countries. Last year, 58 percent of total investment in technology projects in Russia went through RDIF and our partners. We believe that a technology and infrastructure breakthrough is possible if we work together with the investors who are attending this meeting. We propose discussing the possibility of boosting investment by increasing debt so as to invest more in infrastructure and technology.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57548






Russia-France Business Dialogue



Vladimir Putin and President of France Emmanuel Macron took part in the Russia-France Business Dialogue panel discussion.



May 25, 2018 - 14:30 - St Petersburg







The participants discussed Russia’s investment appeal for French business and new areas of mutually beneficial cooperation, in particular, in the digital economy.

Following the panel discussion, Vladimir Putin and Emmanuel Macron met with participants in a friendly match between Russian and French women’s national sabre teams held the day before as part of the sporting programme of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum. The Russian team won 45:44.

The two presidents also posed for a photograph with members of the Coordinating Council of the Trianon Dialogue civil society forum.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

To begin with, I would like to thank President Macron for coming to Russia and St Petersburg.

We had a very substantive discussion on international issues yesterday and a very open, meaningful and, I think very useful exchange on bilateral ties.

France is a traditional, old and reliable partner. I say that it is a reliable partner because France always took an independent stand on international affairs and always tried to at least uphold its sovereignty. We appreciate this.







It is especially important and highly valued today as an earnest of stability in relations. Overall, stability is what matters most in international affairs, as well as in interstate and economic ties.







Our relations with France are developing consistently and progressively. Our trade increased by 16.5 percent last year and by 25 percent in January-March 2018. As for investment, France’s direct investment has reached $15 billion, and Russia has invested around $3 billion, or more precisely, over $2 billion, which is not enough. But the French investment is not enough either.







I will disappoint Emmanuel: Germany is no longer our number one partner. China has long snatched first place in terms of investment and trade. Our trade with China is approaching $850 billion. Sorry, it is $86 billion. I would like to say that our trade with the EU used to be $450 billion, but it has plunged by half over the past few years, while our trade with China has grown. It has backslid a bit, but it is still growing consistently. It will definitely grow to $100 billion soon. Sorry, 850 billion was a slip of the tongue.







The same goes for investment. How much has Fortum invested in Russia, just this one Finnish company? Around $6 billion. One Finnish company has invested $6 billion, and the whole of France only $15 billion. Is this how it should be?







Yes, this is true. Fortum was the first company that came to mind. We gave this Finnish energy company a permit to work in Siberia, where it supplies energy to highly sensitive facilities, including nuclear ones. I would like to point out that the Russian economy is wide open to our partners and is very reliable, because we have attained macroeconomic stability despite the ongoing turbulence, which is important for our investors.







We were consistently working on targeting inflation and we made it. Last year we had a record low inflation rate of 2.5 percent. The Central Bank forecasts the inflation rate at 2.8 percent but our experts believe it will be a bit higher. Yet, this is still a sign of stability.







We purposefully reduced expenses – and not only owing to energy price hikes last year – and decreased the budget deficit from the expected more than three percent to 1.5 percent. This year we will have a surplus of 0.5 percent of GDP. The unemployment rate is also historically low, 5.1 percent.







All this is put together in a package: the national debt is less than 20 percent and our gold and currency reserves are growing – we had 430 billion at the beginning of the year, I believe, and now this is already 450 and 460 billion and the trade balance is positive at over 100 billion, 130 billion, I think. Put together, these figures create a platform for confident action, including joint action. We hope our French friends will develop their companies in Russia and make a profit.







Yesterday I met with the biggest investors in our economy. Some foreign funds took a fairly unprecedented step. They automatically invest together with our Direct Investment Fund into any project. When our fund invests money, our foreign partners follow suit because they trust it.







Of course, we realise that our task is to create attractive conditions for investment. This is a key area of our development. This is obvious and we are fully aware of this as well as the need to enhance labour productivity. Our job is to increase it by five percent per year. This is a very complicated thing to do, especially for our economy that we need to structure – an extremely complicated problem. But the road to this also lies through investment because through it we hope to achieve a cardinal change in the structure of the economy and make it innovative.







Mr Shokhin said that I got “infected” with digitalisation last year. But I am in great health, actually. (Laughter.) It is not that I was “infected,” but the global economy is “pregnant” with digitalisation. As we all know, there is nothing wrong with being pregnant. (Applause.) I think that the applause come from the ladies.



President of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Alexander Shokhin:

Mr President, this is what Igor Shuvalov told us at one of the panel sessions. Now we know why he is no longer in the Government.



Vladimir Putin:

Well, he did not go too far away. Mr Shuvalov will now work with the Government in one of Russia’s development banks. So he will have a lot to do.

I would like to follow up on what my French colleague said on urban development. This and spatial development in general are priority areas for us. Our French colleagues possess many world-class competences in this field. The President of France mentioned our cooperation in space. But there is much more to it.







I think that we had 15 or 17 space launches as of the end of 2017, and another two or three launches from Kourou are scheduled for this year. Let me remind you that we also cooperate in aircraft manufacturing. After all, the Russian medium-haul SuperJet 100 aircraft includes a significant share of French parts. I do not remember the exact figure, but it is at least 25 percent. We are already selling this aircraft to third countries, while we all know that this is a very challenging business, and how hard it is to promote aviation products on the global markets. We also work in the pharmaceuticals industry and construction. All in all, there are many things we do together.







It is particularly good that Russia has developed a diversified relationship with its French partners. This diverse mix can pave the way to success moving forward.







Mr Macron talked about the need to enhance economic sovereignty, but this is relevant for the entire world. I will not go into details right now, and I will not point fingers or criticise anyone. This is not the reason we gathered here today. It is clear however that we need to work on the capacity of our own markets, and promote cooperation and integration. We need to resist the trend of markets becoming secluded from one another, because separatism, be it in the economy or any other kind of separatism, always means trouble.

We have all it takes to step up cooperation and achieve positive results without trying to oppose anyone. There is no doubt that in this case both France and Russia would stand to benefit.

Thank you very much for your attention.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57552






Russia-Japan Business Dialogue



Vladimir Putin and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe took part in the Russia-Japan Business Dialogue panel discussion.



May 25, 2018 - 21:10 - St Petersburg








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

I will just say a few words.

Japan is undoubtedly one of our priority partners when it comes to cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. And not just in Asia. We would like our relations with Japan to acquire global dimension.

Actually, our Japanese friends often act exactly like that. Mr Repik has just told us about Toyota’s activity here in St Petersburg, that is, in the north-west of the Russian Federation. I know that the goods manufactured here go not only to the Russian domestic market but also to neighbouring countries.

You know that Russia is making steady progress on the path of integration in the post-Soviet space. We have set up, as many of you are no doubt aware, the Eurasian Economic Union, and it already represents a market of 170 million people, an actively developing market established on WTO principles. This means we have no boundaries to the flow of goods, investments and workforce. It is very convenient to work in such a market, including via the Russian Federation.

We took a keen interest in Japanese Prime Minister Abe’s initiatives on developing Russian-Japanese relations in eight priority fields, and have already proposed an 80-project plan on its basis. Some of these projects have already kicked off.

Japan’s achievements in high technology are world-renowned, as are those in particular industries where Japan has been and remains an absolute leader. We are naturally interested in working in those fields.

We place special emphasis on developing traditional cooperation areas, including energy.







The automobile industry has already been mentioned here. The Prime Minister pointed out, including at today’s panel discussion, the possibility of working in healthcare. There are concrete proposals here, including working together in the fight against cancer. I should stress that Russia also has something to offer to our Japanese friends and partners.

To sum up, the tenor of Russian-Japanese relations right now gives me every reason to hope that the volume of Japan’s investments – it is currently fairly modest, let us say, around two billion dollars overall – in the Russian economy, as well as the volume of trade – which is also modest so far in view of our potential, something like 18 billion dollars as of last year – all that can be increased many times over.

And we are aware of our Japanese friends’ interest in improving relations. I would like to assure you that for our part we will do everything possible to ensure favourable conditions for investing and for the economic activities currently underway.

Thank you very much.


<…>


Vladimir Putin:

First, I would like to thank our colleagues for the attention to cooperation with Russia and for working in our market in general.

But I will start with the last issue. Digitalisation and digital transformation is one of our priorities and not only in the petrochemical and energy industries. In general, we want to work more actively – and we spoke about this at today’s panel discussion – in the area of artificial intelligence, and the digitalisation of the economy as a whole, including the energy industry.

There are plenty of areas here, which are primarily linked with enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. Japan has really succeeded in this respect, and not only in the hydrocarbon energy industry but also in energy transfer and consumption. There are many areas here and you know this much better than I do.







Our power companies are working on resolving these tasks and are doing a good job. The same applies to energy production and transportation and all other related processes.

You decided to cooperate with Gazpromneft and this is a good choice because it is one of the advanced, high-tech companies in this area. Probably, now I understand, maybe partly owing to you, that it is paying much attention to resolving these tasks. Quite recently, I had an opportunity to talk with the head of this company. He told me in a very general sense what this company is doing in this area.

However, there are no restrictions on work with our other large companies – both private and publicly owned, such as Gazprom, Lukoil, Transneft and private energy companies that are working in Siberia – this is where the production is mainly. There are no restrictions at all. You are welcome to work with electric power companies. This work is very important in hydropower engineering. To sum up, there are no restrictions whatsoever.

A few words about support measures. These measures are, of course, general in character. We are trying to come up with some benefits to spur the development of the digital economy. We have a whole list of them. Have a look at it, please. I think it will continue to be improved.

Regarding the pharmaceutical industry, this is a very important field. We have our programme for the pharmaceutical industry’s development but we are aware that our Japanese friends have succeeded in many areas. I draw your attention to the fact that we have increasingly more foreign partners taking part in this work, primarily from Europe. We have Swiss, Italian and German companies working here. We will definitely welcome that. But there is apparently a problem related to drug registration which may take a year and a half. There is too much red tape here.

We have advanced in many areas, and the advances were good, I mean basic issues involved in setting up a business. For example, company registration, grid connection and so on. But purely bureaucratic matters certainly require extra attention. I am not sure we can fully accept certificates for medicines issued by foreign countries, this requires thorough consideration.







We have a certification procedure of our own. However, it should become more flexible, there is no doubt about it. I ask the Healthcare Minister to address that, even though we spoke about it a number of times. I heard what our colleagues said, and will look into what is going on in this area.

We have very good experience here when our foreign partners work, and they work successfully. We met with French businessmen in this very hall today. Joint insulin production in Russia and its sale to third countries was cited as a positive example. And the number of such examples is growing.

Now, regarding work in the Far East. My colleague mentioned in his speech the capabilities of the free port of Vladivostok. We have expanded this regime of the free port of Vladivostok with its various benefits to the other ports of the Far East, but this is all part of the so-called priority development areas.

I am confident that our colleagues working there know what that is. Let me reiterate, there is a whole collection of benefits and preferences – starting with the customs and tax regime and ending with administrative procedures.

What would I like to say in this context? I know that the matter deals with expanding the term of some benefits and we can, of course, think about this. But we proceeded from the premise that it is first necessary to try and make the most of what is offered today. I understand that this is about bigger investments that take longer to recoup. We are ready to consider this as well.

However, to expand the term of benefits that we are discussing, we need to understand the kind of investment we are talking about, the size. We are ready to discuss this. The Minister of Economic Development is present here and is listening to what we are saying. We often discuss this issue between ourselves.







These seven years that seem to be the subject of our discussion are a compromise decision on our part. The Ministry of Economic Development often insists on extending this period as you are suggesting. The Finance Ministry believes we should first see how it works in practice over seven years. We are ready to discuss this.

Now the next issue linked with currency risks and settlements. I have just said this at today’s meeting with the heads of major international news agencies. I believe the obstacles that our US partners sometimes create for dollar settlements are a big mistake on their part. I think so because, as they try to address momentary political concerns, however unsuccessfully, they are undermining confidence in what is essentially the only reserve currency in the world.

All countries without exception are starting to think about how to get away from this US currency monopoly and how to ensure the normal functioning of their financial institutions. I think our American friends should ponder this. I am certain that…in fact I know, because I read American analytical materials, that many experts criticise such decisions in the US itself. However, this makes it necessary to think about how to work normally in these conditions.

There is the issue of the volatility of the yen and the ruble, but as you know, we have said it and Ms Lagarde mentioned it today, we can safely say that in recent years Russia has achieved highly stable macroeconomic indicators. We have brought inflation down to an all-time low. Last year it was 2.5 percent, and this year, as our government economists say, it will be three percent or slightly higher. The Central Bank says it will be 2.8 percent.

Do you know why this is happening? The reason is that the government members in charge of the economy want to spend more money and proceed from the premise that inflation will edge upward, while the financial authorities whose task it is to hold inflation at bay, say no, if we are careful, we may keep inflation at 2.8 percent. Meanwhile the gold and currency reserves are growing, the external government debt is less than 20 percent, the trade surplus last year was $130 billion and unemployment stood at 5.1 percent.

Besides, we have robust growth of investment in fixed assets. While the GDP increased by 1.5 percent, investment in fixed assets amounted to 4.4 percent last year. We all know what this means. It provides the foundation for growth in the coming 12 to 12 to 18 months because last year investments in fixed assets grew 2.5 or actually 3 times faster than GDP last year.







Thus, basically, the trends are very positive. The ruble is essentially a fully convertible currency. Let us settle in rubles. We are all for it. We can work out a mechanism of free conversion into the yen, the euro and the dollar. This can be thought out in detail, it simply needs an effort.

I believe that together with the central banks, together with the financial authorities on both sides we will certainly solve this problem and will work effectively. I would like to thank you all for the joint work. And I would like to say something else.

Yes, problems exist, but still our trade with Japan amounts to $18 billion, with China it is $86 billion and with Germany it is around $50 billion. Obviously, our trade with Japan does not match our potential at all.

Yet all our other partners are working in the same conditions, so with them, the situation is different, and we move forward faster and achieve greater volumes. We can certainly do the same with Japan, all the more so because our economies, due to their structures, can well complement each other.

We are aware of the keen interest our Japanese friends are showing in cooperation in the field of energy, and how Japan feels about buying our gas, oil and petroleum products. All this can be done. We can develop nuclear power together. We discussed it with the Prime Minister, and we can discuss power transmission lines and cable lines – there are many options – and transport infrastructure. In short, if there is good will, and I see that there is good will on both sides, success is inevitable.

Thank you very much.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57559






Meeting with foreign business leaders



Vladimir Putin had a meeting with heads of foreign companies on the sidelines of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum.



May 25, 2018 - 22:00 - St Petersburg








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Colleagues, I am happy to greet you.

There are many familiar faces, many people in this room that I have known for a long time, there are many of those who have been cooperating with Russia for many years. And since you are here, it means the work is progressing in a positive vein. I would like to welcome all of you.







I hope there are those in this room who is planning to make or is making their first steps in the Russian market. I want to say that we will do everything for your work in Russia to be successful. We are as much interested in it as you are.

I have talked a number of times at different venues today about our priorities, about what we are going to do in the near future, what aims we are going to achieve. I will not be going through all that again. I will only say a few words – even though it may also be a repetition – on the current situation in our economy.

I think you will agree that we have recovered our growth – that is an obvious fact. We have decreased sensitivity to volatility in the global markets. Last year Russia’s GDP growth amounted to a modest but sustainable figure of 1.5 percent. We set the task to become one of the world’s top five economies in the coming years.







Actually, we are close to reaching this goal in terms of the purchasing power parity. There was a time when we were part of the top five. Different indicators move either up or down. But we set the task to remain in the top five, and I am sure that we will. In particular, we plan to achieve this by expanding domestic consumer and investment demand.

In this regard I would like to reiterate that, as I just said that at a meeting with our Japanese colleagues, capital investments stood at 4.4 percent in our country in 2017. Taking into account that the GDP grew by 1.5 percent, it means that GDP growth is guaranteed in the short and midterm because capital investments are in advance. This means the money for that growth has already been invested in the economy. And it is a very good indicator.







Household consumer spending grew by 3.4 percent. According to Rosstat [Federal State Statistics Service] preliminary estimates, the GDP grew by 1.3 percent in the first quarter. In January through April the industrial output increased by 1.8 percent, and agricultural output by 2.6 percent. You are aware of the Bank of Russia base interest rate: it is 7.25.

We have achieved a considerable decrease in consumer price growth. Last year, in 2017, inflation, as I have already said, was a record 2.5 percent. In future we plan to rein it in within 4 percent – as my aide Mr Belousov has written for me here. Let me remind you that the Central Bank’s target is somewhat below three percent. All that is related, on the one hand, to the Government’s economic bloc wishing to spend more, which will drive inflation up, whereas the finance authorities want to stash liquidity, and in this case, we would stay below three percent.







The consumer price index in April was 2.4 percent year on year. Unemployment in Russia remains very low at 5.1 percent. This is also a record low. And overall, you know what these figures are in the world economy and the world’s leading economies. This is a good situation.

Trade balance surplus is growing. It was $130 billion last year, which is a quarter more than a year before, so the trend is positive and it continues this year.

According to the Central Bank’s estimates, the trade surplice in January through April of this year was almost $61 billion, and this is also a good figure because it is 43 percent higher than in the same period last year.







The ruble retains stability under floating exchange rate conditions. Russia is invariably among the world’s leaders in terms of gold and currency reserves. Their volume reached $457.7 billion as of May 11, 2018 whereas it was $432 billion at the beginning of the year. Therefore, we see a continuous growth.

We are among the countries with the lowest public debt, which is under 20 percent. Combined with other figures I gave you, it all proves the stability of the Russian economy.

We are pursuing a responsible and prudent budget policy. Last year the federal budget deficit stood at 1.5 percent of GDP whereas the target numbers were around three percent. (Addressing Andrei Belousov.) Is that right, Andrei?







How did we manage to cut the budget deficit? Not only on account of growing prices on our traditional export items, because initially there were none, in fact, but primarily through a targeted policy of cutting ineffective expenditures.

According to the Finance Ministry, this year will see at least a 0.5 percent surplus. In January through April, the federal budget has already been executed with a surplus of 0.6 percent of GDP.

I think I will stop at that, on this overview of the situation in our country, in the Russian economy. Let us engage in a direct and open discussion as we used to do in the previous years.

Thank you for your attention.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57560






Opening of Cross Years of Russia and Japan



Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe attended the opening ceremony of the Cross Years of Russia and Japan following their talks at the Kremlin.



May 26, 2018 - 21:00 - Moscow







The Cross Years of Russia and Japan is a package of events in politics, the economy, science, culture and art, as well as in the sphere of student exchanges. The Cross Years aim to strengthen mutual understanding between the peoples of the two countries and developing good-neighbourly ties in the long-term.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Prime Minister, ladies and gentlemen,

My congratulations on the opening of the Year of Russia in Japan and the Year of Japan in Russia. This is a remarkable and significant event for our countries and peoples.

The Russian-Japanese Cross Years are being held for the first time. They were initiated by our Japanese colleagues, and we supported this initiative, of course.

Russian Government ministries, public, political, and business circles in cooperation with partners from Japan, made every effort to translate the idea of holding the Year of Russia in Japan and the Year of Japan in Russia into action.

The program of the Cross Years is rather busy and includes numerous events that reflect the rich history, culture and authentic traditions of the people of Russia and Japan, as well as the modern life of our countries and their achievements in their economies, science, education, healthcare, and sports.

I am confident that the Cross Years will activate cooperation in various spheres and develop direct friendly contacts between people, and will raise the level of mutual trust between our nations as well as strengthen the basis of bilateral interaction.







The plans include business forums, conferences and seminars, where entrepreneurs and financial experts will address the issues of expanding industrial cooperation and discus joint projects.

Many events will take place in the Russian Far East, and this is only natural. Japanese investors have long and successfully worked there, taking part in high-tech projects implemented in areas of priority development. Of course, this positive experience should be encouraged and expanded to other regions of our country.

We currently devote much attention to developing closer interaction between representatives of expert and non-governmental organisations and the scientific and artistic communities. The programme of the Years includes numerous contacts between members of parliaments and scientific, student and youth exchanges.

We know that the Japanese traditionally show a sincere interest in our culture, art, theatre, music, cinema and literature, and the Year of Russia in Japan will feature many tours by renowned theatres and music collectives and will include various art and photo exhibitions, as well as the Week of Russian Cinema.

In conclusion, I will note once more that the implementation of this unique project of the Cross Years will further facilitate good-neighbourly relations and the partnership between Russia and Japan. Let me cordially wish every success in this large event.

Thank you for your attention.







Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe (retranslated):

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen,

Last June, when young leaves were just turning in Tokyo, I spent unforgettable hours attending the opening ceremony of the Russian Seasons and watching the Bolshoi Theatre company's production of the ballet Giselle.

A year has passed since then. And now, in the building of this very theatre, we are celebrating the official opening of the Year of Russia in Japan and the Year of Japan in Russia. At President Putin's initiative, Japan became the first country where the Russian Seasons took place. The contacts that originated back then will this year be extended to political and economic spheres, as well as to youth and sports exchanges.

Japan and Russia, although neighbours, are considered countries that are close but at the same time distant from one another. Japan-Russia relations have much potential, which is being gradually realised.

Citizens of the two countries communicate with each other in various spheres and understand each other. This considerably reduces the distance between our countries and gives rise to great trust and friendship. The current Cross Year is leading us to a better tomorrow.







I hope you will watch and enjoy the performances by Japanese Kabuki theatre that will be showcased as pert of the Year of Japan. The programme will also feature an extensive art exhibition, with pieces that are rarely exhibited even in Japan.

Events aimed at promoting Japanese traditions and pop culture will take place in various parts of Russia's vast territory. I hope you will attend them too. And I am sure that people in Japan will be fascinated by the profound Russian art.

On June 14, the World Cup will start, with the Japanese national team having qualified and taking part. It is quite possible that Japan could even face Russia in the finals; I am already looking forward to such an interesting match.

Now you will see the Kagami Biraki ceremony performed by samurais wearing traditional armour, and a captivating show by Japanese drummers. Russian martial artists and Bolshoi Theatre performers will also take part in these shows.

This is a special programme that can only be seen tonight. I hope you immensely enjoy watching how the souls of Japan and Russia will sing in unison.

Thank you very much.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57567






Reception to mark Cross Years of Russia and Japan opening



Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe attended a reception following a concert at the Bolshoi Theatre to mark the opening of the Cross Years of Russia and Japan.



May 26, 2018 - 23:50 - Moscow








Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe (retranslated):

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen,

I am delighted that we have opened the cross Year of Japan in Russia and Russia in Japan. I hope you liked the Japanese traditional ceremony of Kagami Biraki performed by Budokan Karate masters and the drum and dance ensemble Drum Tao.

I believe that all of this suits the occasion very well as a demonstration of the synthesis of Japanese traditions and modern reality, as well as a combination of the creative ideas of Japanese and Russian masters of arts, Budokan Karate masters, musicians, performers and dancers of the wonderful school of Russian ballet.







Ladies and gentlemen, the cross-year has barely begun. Lying in store for us are many interesting and impressive events, such as Kabuki performances, art exhibits and the traditional Japanese art of mounted archery – Yabusame, which the Russian public will see for the first time.

Japanese festivals will be held in many Russian cities. We also plan to hold political, economic and research events and youth, sports and interregional exchanges. Over 300 such events have been planned, and many more will be added to the agenda. I invite you to visit them and discover the unexplored elements of Japan.

We will not limit our contacts to the framework of the cross-year. Thanks to simplified visa requirements, the number of Russian citizens who visited Japan last year increased by 40 percent compared to the year before.







We will try to make the best use possible of the opportunities offered by the cross-year and the 2018 FIFA World Cup to make a breakthrough in humanitarian ties between our peoples.

Today we have invited to our reception famous politicians, economists and those working in the sciences and the arts, making a great contribution to Russian-Japanese relations. I would like to use this opportunity to thank all of them and to ask them to continue to assist us in this undertaking.

Thank you.

(Speaking in Russian) Spasibo.







President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Prime Minister, friends,

People in Russia have always had a great interest in Japanese history, culture and traditions. We have watched respectfully Japan’s progress and the impressive examples of Japanese talent.

I know the Japanese people look forward to and admire performances by Russian artists. My friends from the leading Russian orchestras and theatres have told me about this. What does this mean? It is evidence of mutual attraction and sympathy between the people of Russia and Japan.







We are living in a complex and rapidly changing world. Partner relations between Russia and Japan are what we need, what Russia and its friends in neighbouring Japan need.

We are grateful to Mr Prime Minister for the attention he pays to the development of Russian-Japanese ties and for his idea of holding a Year of Japan in Russia and a Year of Russia in Japan, which will allow us to learn more about each other and will bring us closer together.

I would like to thank everyone who is participating and will participate in these events and wish success to everyone.

(Speaking in Japanese) Arigato.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57569
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 5th, 2018 #842
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Greeting to organisers and participants of Primakov Readings International Forum



Vladimir Putin sent greetings to the organisers and participants of the Primakov Readings International Forum.



May 29, 2018 - 09:30



The message reads, in part:

“This is the third year that the Yevgeny Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy and International Relations is holding this forum with the support of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. I can state with confidence that the Primakov Readings have become one of the most respected and interesting international platforms for foreign policy discussions. This year, Moscow once again welcomes prominent experts and academics, politicians and diplomats, journalists and writers from various countries.

Interest in the rich intellectual heritage of Dr Primakov is obviously not waning, due to the fact that many of his assessments and forecasts of international development have been confirmed and continue to be confirmed by reality. As timely as ever is his idea that dialogue is most needed in times of difficult turns in global affairs and increased turbulence; instead of disrupting it, we need to intensify cooperation with our partners, to seek common ground and compromise.

This is what you do during the forum – conduct an expert study of proposals and recommendations on possible options for solving acute global and regional problems. This year’s event is devoted to the Risks of an Unstable World Order, a topic that covers a wide range of issues related to the crisis in the modern system of international relations, systematic violations of the UN Charter and the basic principles of interstate communication, the expansion of illegal sanctioning practices, and the growing protectionism and disintegration in the world economy.”

Yevgeny Primakov, a Soviet and Russian statesman, was one of the leading Russian orientalists, a major expert in world economics and international relations. He served as Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and Foreign Intelligence Service Chief.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57590






Greetings on Sixth Russia-Tajikistan Interregional Cooperation Conference



Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to the participants, organisers and guests of the Sixth Russia-Tajikistan Interregional Cooperation Conference underway in Dushanbe.



May 29, 2018 - 10:30



The message reads, in part:

“Over the past years, your conference has confirmed its importance and prestige. It brings together delegates from the two countries’ legislative and executive authorities, as well as the business and expert communities, and provides a venue for an open and constructive dialogue on current bilateral and regional issues.

I would like to say that Russian-Tajikistani relations are developing rapidly in the spirit of strategic partnership and alliance. A major place in our relations traditionally belongs to interregional ties, which include the implementation of numerous mutually beneficial projects and initiatives in trade, investment, infrastructure, agriculture, education and culture.

I am confident that the discussions held at your conference will be interesting and instructive, creating conditions for exchanging valuable experience and coordinating new cooperation avenues, as well as helping strengthen mutual trust and understanding between the people of Russia and Tajikistan.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57588






Telephone conversation with President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan



Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the initiative of the Turkish side.



May 29, 2018 - 15:45



The two leaders continued their in-depth discussions on the situation in Syria. They emphasised the importance of a political settlement, particularly with due regard for the solutions coordinated in Astana.

Both leaders expressed their commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic.

They also discussed the development of Russian-Turkish relations in the context of the decisions adopted at the seventh meeting of the High-Level Cooperation Council held in Ankara on April 3.

They also expressed satisfaction with the consistent implementation of strategic joint projects in energy, including the construction of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant and the Turkish Stream gas pipeline. They welcomed the successful completion of the talks on conditions for the transit of Russian natural gas via Turkey and confirmed their resolve to continue to strengthen the mutually beneficial partnership.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57596






Russian-Bulgarian Talks



Vladimir Putin received in the Kremlin Prime Minister of Bulgaria Boyko Borisov, who arrived in Russia on a working visit.



May 30, 2018 - 17:40 - The Kremlin, Moscow







During the talks in the restricted and expanded format, the participants plan to discuss further development of Russian-Bulgarian cooperation in politics, the economy, and the humanitarian area as well as pressing international issues, including the fight against international terrorism.

On the Russian side, Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov, Minister of Industry and Trade and Chairman of the Russian part of the Russian-Bulgarian Intergovernmental Commission on Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation Denis Manturov, and Minister of Energy Alexander Novak took part in the narrow-format meeting.

Following the Russian-Bulgarian talks, Vladimir Putin and Boyko Borisov made press statements and answered questions from journalists.

Earlier this month Vladimir Putin also met with President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev in Sochi.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Prime Minister, colleague, friends,

I would like to welcome you in Moscow. I am happy that after a fairly long interval you accepted our invitation to come to Russia.

Just recently I had the pleasure of receiving the Bulgarian President in Russia. I hope your visit to Russia, our meeting today and the talks, and your negotiations with the Russian Government will create good conditions for the further development of our relations in various areas, including the economy, as well as political, cultural and humanitarian contacts.

We have recently celebrated the 140th anniversary of Bulgaria’s liberation from the Ottoman yoke and the Day of Slavic Writing and Culture – everything that makes us kindred spirits and closely unites us.

I am very happy to see you. Welcome.







Prime Minister of Bulgaria Boyko Borisov (retranslated):

Mr President,

I am very grateful to you for this opportunity to come after so many years and meet with you in the Kremlin. Indeed, we first met in Gdansk, then in Sofia and meet for a third time here.

I am grateful to you for the opportunity to exchange ideas by telephone during this entire period. I believe we could share our views on topics where there is some movement, and on the situation in the world and the Western Balkans.

Russia has always had influence in this region. You know what projects are carried out there. We are implementing certain projects on developing infrastructure in this region: roads, railways and gas infrastructure.

We are cooperating well with your special services on counterterrorism and security matters. We could be much more active in tourism and agriculture. We could discuss all of these aspects of our relations.

I would also like to mention that in 10 to 15 days Moscow will host the FIFA World Cup and become the football capital.







Vladimir Putin:

Thank you.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57607






News conference following Russian-Bulgarian talks



May 30, 2018 - 18:00 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Prime Minister, ladies and gentlemen,

Prime Minister of Bulgaria Boyko Borisov and I have just concluded talks. They were held in a business-like and constructive atmosphere and were fairly productive.

Bulgaria is an important partner in Europe and on the Balkans. Our relations rest on centuries-old traditions of friendship and neighbourliness, as well as the cultural and spiritual kinship of our peoples.

This year we celebrate the anniversary of a landmark date in our relations – 140 years since Bulgaria’s liberation from the Ottoman yoke. As is known, Russia made a major contribution to the victory of the Bulgarian people in the struggle for independence and did much to restore Bulgarian statehood.

It is important for us that the durable, diverse ties that have historically existed between Russia and Bulgaria continue developing on a mutually beneficial and equitable basis.

During today’s narrow and expanded format meetings, the Prime Minister and I discussed in detail the current situation, priorities and the most promising areas of joint work in the most diverse areas.

Naturally, we paid special attention to expanding economic cooperation. Last year our trade increased by 24 percent to reach $3.5 billion. The total amount of Russian investment exceeded $3.3 billion.

Russian companies are actively investing in the Bulgarian economy, primarily in oil processing, agriculture, construction, and real estate.

Russia is a reliable energy supplier for Bulgaria. We meet all Bulgaria’s natural gas needs, for instance. About three billion cubic metres is supplied annually.

I would like to note that transit flows of Russian hydrocarbons to South Eastern European countries pass through Bulgarian territory. We can further develop cooperation in this vital area, thereby making an even bigger contribution to ensuring European energy security.

We discussed in detail cooperation in the nuclear power industry. The Rosatom State Corporation will continue supplying nuclear fuel to the Bulgarian Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant. It will also help Bulgarians to upgrade this plant and extend the term of service of its sixth energy unit.

In addition, Russia is ready to return to the idea of carrying out the project to build Belene Nuclear Power Plant – if, of course, the Bulgarian leadership decides to. Based on the market, of course.

The Prime Minister and I were pleased to note the consolidation of interregional ties. Over 80 regions of the Russian Federation are developing partnerships with Bulgarian regions.

Last year, Varna hosted the Forum of Sister Cities that was attended by almost 30 cities of the two countries. In autumn, the Days of Moscow festival is scheduled to be held in Sofia.

One more important subject of our talks was cooperation in culture. As we have just recalled, guest performances of the Sofia Opera and Ballet Theatre were held with great success in the Bolshoi for the first time in 40 years.

We are maintaining close ties in education. This year over 200 state scholarships have been allocated for Bulgarian students and we are planning to increase this quota.

Importantly, Bulgarian citizens have remained steadily interested in studying the Russian language. I have thanked the Prime Minister for the Bulgarian Government’s efforts to maintain this interest.

We intend to continue encouraging tourism contacts. Bulgarian resorts are traditionally highly popular in Russia. Last year half a million Russian tourists visited Bulgaria.

About 300,000 Russians own housing on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Their investment in Bulgarian real estate amounts to $5 billion.

I expressed my gratitude to the Prime Minister for showing care for our military memorials on Bulgarian soil where tens of thousands of Russian soldiers who perished fighting to liberate Bulgaria are buried.

We agreed to draft a special agreement on cooperation on maintaining and protecting burial grounds.

Mr Borisov and I also exchanged views on pressing international and European issues.

In conclusion, I would like to thank the Prime Minister and all our Bulgarian colleagues for the open and substantive discussion.

Thank you for your attention.







Prime Minister of Bulgaria Boyko Borisov (retranslated):

Mr President, colleagues,

I think we have had a very important and pragmatic conversation. I subscribe to everything said by President Putin about our cultural, historical and religious affinity. I do not want to repeat these words for Bulgarian journalists. Bulgaria is in for the major developments that will become clear today – whether a second step will be taken in the effort to supply Russian gas via the Turkish Stream pipeline to Bulgaria. This is what we discussed. President Putin told us that yesterday they spoke with the Turkish President and there are no objections to the extension of the Turkish Stream gas pipeline towards Bulgaria.

In the past there was a different project. Now we are returning to the gas distribution pattern on the Balkans. It was possible to carry out a different project but it is now a thing of the past. You know what the situation was like at that time. Now we are absolutely certain that Mr Miller, our ministers will find a pattern for redistributing gas under contract with other countries, selling it and transporting it to other countries in our region.

Naturally, considering the large amounts of Russian gas coming from Ukrainian territory and via Turkish Stream, it is necessary to find a formula for establishing a gas distribution hub.

As for the Belene Nuclear Power Plant, I know that many Bulgarians would like to hear about this. As we discussed with President Putin in Sofia, the units have been paid for and Russia refused interest payment. Bulgaria has two reactors and a certified site in Belene.

Now that we have learned our lesson and are using the property we have – the reactors and the site – we are trying to find an investor to carry out the project on a market basis. We want this project not only to generate profits but also to provide for the reliable operation of the plant in the future, after a ten year period.

We thanked our partners for extending the service life of the nuclear units at the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant. However, this plant is not eternal and we will have to build another one. So we are ready to welcome all candidates that offer the best conditions for this site.

With regards to culture, I would like to mention that a wonderful exhibition of medieval icons will open in Moscow on June 27. This is a unique event and I invite all of you to come. These are miracle-working icons. We also jointly celebrated May 24 and are carrying out a number of cultural events. We hope this practice will continue and similar events will be held.

Russian helicopters that are used in Afghanistan, MiG fighters the Bulgarian armed forces are equipped with and Su attack aircraft – before we buy any new hardware we will work on servicing and repairing them. The helicopters are already under repair and the fighters are waiting their turn.

We have good prospects. The issues that we discussed on gas and other subjects have been approved by the European Commission. I conveyed greetings from Jean-Claude Juncker. We have invited President Putin to pay a reciprocal visit to Bulgaria and will be pleased to receive him. President Radev also said this.

Building infrastructure on our part of the Balkan Peninsula has been a long-standing tradition since the Russian-Turkish war. We urge all representatives of this region to maintain peaceful relations, renounce armed conflicts, develop their industry and infrastructure, and increase GDP.

We talked about ending the conflict in Syria to stop the flood of migrants to Europe. We are striving for peace, dialogue and compromise.

There is no point in talking about the traditionally good relations between Bulgaria and Russia. In conclusion, I would like to wish you success in hosting the FIFA World Cup. You will be in the focus of attention.

I would like to mention the good work that our respective special services did in terms of countering money laundering, terrorism and migration. I hope this will continued.

I wish you success in holding the World Cup and wish the best in trying to win it.

Thank you.







Question (retranslated):

As we understand it, Bulgaria plans to build a gas distribution centre. Did you talk about gas volumes and prices?

And, if you will, I would like to ask Mr Putin an additional question. You noted that the meeting with Mr Borisov is taking place after a fairly long time. Did you discuss the Skripal case?



Vladimir Putin:

No, we did not talk about the Skripal case. I hope that at some point we will conduct a substantive discussion with our British colleagues on this issue.

As for the meeting with Mr Borisov, I talked about this. We discussed the issues in detail, including energy cooperation. I believe people in Bulgaria know that our company LUKOIL alone has invested over $3 billion in Bulgaria. The activities of this Russian company amount to 9 percent of Bulgaria’s GDP; a quarter of the Bulgarian budget revenue is generated from the activities of just this one Russian company. I think these are telling facts.

We have very good experience in cooperating in the hydrocarbon and nuclear power industries. We discussed all these issues today. As Mr Prime Minister said, and I can confirm this, we have always discussed the opportunities for Turkish Stream to reach Europe, including via Bulgaria, with our Turkish partners.

President Erdogan of Turkey confirmed this again during our telephone conversation yesterday. We are working on this in practical terms with our Turkish and Bulgarian friends. I know that Bulgaria is building certain transit capacities on its territory. As for the volume and prices, this is up to the companies involved – there are many purely commercial economic issues that are within their competence.







Boyko Borisov:

I can say that the market will determine the prices depending on transit volumes. We have discussed this with our Russian colleagues. Having parted with the planned economy a long time ago, Russia has established a market. For those who offer us the best prices and contract terms, we are striving to become a transit country, receive proper revenue and remain within the gas distribution system that passes through Turkey, Greece, Italy and Albania…

We know about the difficult relations in the past and are grateful to our colleagues for not being vindictive and the fact that Russian-Bulgarian relations do not depend on the extent of guilt of some politicians. We are thinking about the future economic development of our two countries.

As for your question, we talked about this last March. I would like to thank President Putin for his attitude once again. I am to blame for creating certain tensions, but there were meetings in Gdansk and Sofia and we have spoken by telephone. When it came to the worst and I wanted to talk, my calls were always answered. And I really accept part of the guilt for those developments.

As for Skripal, this has nothing to do with us.



Vladimir Putin:

I can only add that the issues of supply volumes, transit or hubs need to be resolved in the general context of our energy supplies to the European market.

The construction of Nord Stream 2 is a big topic of discussion right now. How much will we distribute via the new pipeline? This is the question. How much will still be sent through Ukraine, and we are ready to maintain Ukrainian transit, – this is another question. How much do our consumers need now and how much in the short term?

But what we talked about today with the Prime Minister are absolutely realistic points because the work on Turkish Stream is almost complete. We have already finished one line across the bottom of the Black Sea. This section is finished. Now we are beginning the onshore construction in Turkey.

In addition, we signed the necessary agreements and documents with Turkey regarding the construction on Turkish territory. The second line is half-built. This is just over 200 km across the seabed; the entire distance is 400 km or so, I believe. Therefore, everything we are talking about is becoming reality – and very soon.







Boyko Borisov:

It is very important to clarify that it is impossible to lay a direct line because the second section of Turkish Stream has already been laid. But if we make sure that Bulgaria is a stable, reliable and predictable gas distribution centre for European countries, the additional pipeline will cost around 9 billion euros.

We can continue these talks and leave the door open if we prove our genuine interest. The Bulgarian public does not know this but Gazprom and Vladimir Putin relieved us from paying around 800 million euros to Italian companies for the platforms that they delivered to the Burgas port.



Vladimir Putin:

Gazprom covered the penalty. Gazprom’s total loss due to cancellation of the South Stream accounted for around 800 million euros, which was written off as a loss.







Question:

I have a question for Mr President and Mr Prime Minister. You spoke about energy cooperation and mentioned the Nord Stream 2 and South Stream projects. Here is my question: South Stream has not been implemented but Bulgaria has indicated its interest in new projects of this kind. Are there concerns that they could be jeopardised without guarantees from Bulgaria and the other EU countries?

Also, I would like to ask your opinion about Azerbaijan’s Southern Gas Corridor. How does it relate to Turkish Stream, and what do you think about the EU support for Azerbaijan’s project and its exemption from the Third Energy Package?



Vladimir Putin:

As for the first part of your question, I believe that Mr Prime Minister and I have already spoken about this in detail. We regret, and, as far as I can see, Bulgaria regrets as well that the South Stream project has not been implemented, because everyone knows that it would have greatly benefited Bulgaria.

We can approach the matter from a different side, in this case via Turkey. I can say once again that we are for it. I have told Mr Prime Minister that we are ready to build this pipeline along the agreed route.

As for Azerbaijan’s Southern Gas Corridor that you have mentioned, we welcome any economic activity in this sphere. We welcome diversification in the field of energy supplies to the European market, because this creates market conditions, which is exactly what we want.

The only thing of concern to us, which we continue to discuss with our partners in Brussels, is that market conditions must be equal for all parties. As far as I know, the Southern Gas Corridor has been given special incentives, including exemption from the Third Energy Package.

In this context, why were similar conditions not offered to South Stream, a project that has not been realised, unfortunately? Is Bulgaria inferior to any other country in this respect?

We believe that these problems will be eventually settled during the talks and discussions with our Brussels partners. Ultimately, everyone wants the situation on the European energy market to satisfy the interests of all parties, including suppliers and consumers.







Boyko Borisov:

President Putin was very clear when he said that a market-based approach must guide our actions. Bulgaria has already built a pipeline linking it to Turkey, and the construction of pipelines to Romania and Serbia is underway. Another pipeline with Turkey will be built this year, and the pipeline to Greece has already been launched towards Thessaloniki, and a pipeline to Macedonia. We are developing our gas transportation infrastructure using our own funds, and new compressor stations have been installed. This means that we are creating wonderful opportunities for delivering cheap gas to the market. These efforts promote competition, which in turn is a major driver for economic development.

Those who are able to offer gas at the lowest price will be able to gain a foothold in the market. Bulgaria has adopted a special approach on this matter. We are the most loyal and the most disciplined country in the European Union. This is the reason why all the pipelines bypassed our territory. We hope that today we have redressed an injustice.

These pipelines now go through Turkey, a NATO member, as well as Greece and Italy, who are also NATO members. We had backed out of these projects for the sake of principle, which complicated our relations with Russia. So I am very grateful that Russia holds no grudge against us. A senior partner is always more inclined to grant forgiveness.



Vladimir Putin:

This matter was raised during talks with Mr Prime Minister. The question of who should be viewed as a senior and who as a junior partner is quite confusing for me, since it is usually the senior partner that is expected to foot the bill. We do understand however what this is all about. We do understand, as does Bulgaria, that large-scale projects require guarantees, primarily financial guarantees, which could be executed as either sovereign guarantees granted by the Bulgarian Government or resolutions adopted by the European Commission to this effect. We intend to move forward along both of these tracks. Everyone has a clear understanding of what is going on, and no one wants to see any failures or disruptions again. On the contrary, what everyone wants is to move forward.



Boyko Borisov:

Jean-Claude Juncker headed a European Commission delegation that came to Sofia and presented a plan of the Balkan gas distribution hub to the media. This project is backed by our European partners, who met with President Putin over the past few days. I am referring to Angela Merkel, Emmanuel Macron and Sebastian Kurz. This time we stated our position with the utmost clarity, since this is a matter of principle for Bulgaria, as well as for the European Union.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57608






Greetings on the opening of the 2018 New Wave Junior international contest for young pop singers



Vladimir Putin sent a message of greetings to the participants, organisers and guests of the 2018 New Wave Junior international contest for young pop music performers.



May 31, 2018 - 10:00



The message reads, in part:

“Here, in sunny Artek, your wonderful project brought together a large creative community consisting of high-profile and aspiring performers from Russia and other countries. It has become one of the most sought after and forward-looking undertakings in international cultural and humanitarian cooperation, and, most importantly, has given young performers a wonderful opportunity to showcase their talents and make a step towards the heights they will scale in their careers.

I am sure that the guests and the jury members of this year’s contest will enjoy an eventful programme and outstanding and memorable performances by young singers.”

The New Wave Junior international contest for young pop music performers has been held since 2008. Its contestants include children from 8 to 12 years of age.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57614






Telephone conversation with Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu



Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister of the State of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu.



May 31, 2018 - 18:50



As a follow-up to the talks held on May 9 in Moscow, various aspects of the Syrian settlement process, as well as current bilateral issues were discussed.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57615






Congratulations to Giuseppe Conte on taking office as Prime Minister of Italy



Vladimir Putin sent a message to Giuseppe Conte congratulating him on taking office as Prime Minister of the Republic of Italy.



June 1, 2018 - 17:30



The President noted that Russian–Italian relations are based on positive traditions of friendship and mutual respect. “I expect that your work as the Head of Government will help advance constructive Russian-Italian cooperation in various areas, as well as joint efforts to effectively address key regional and international problems. This undoubtedly meets the fundamental interests of the Russian and Italian people,” the President of Russia stressed in his message.

Vladimir Putin also congratulated Giuseppe Conte on Republic Day, Italy’s national holiday.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57633






Meeting with Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan



June 1, 2018 - 17:45 - The Kremlin, Moscow







Vladimir Putin received in the Kremlin Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of the United Arab Emirates Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is in Russia on a working visit.

They discussed the further development of trade between Russia and the UAE, economic and investment cooperation, the current energy situation, and pressing international and regional issues.

In addition, Vladimir Putin and Mohammed Al Nahyan signed the Declaration on Strategic Partnership between the Russian Federation and the United Arab Emirates.

Following the meeting, Vladimir Putin showed the Crown Prince the new Cortege limousine produced in Russia.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Your Highness, colleagues, friends, I wholeheartedly welcome you in Moscow.

We had a meeting one year ago. The situation in the region, as well as across the world in general, is rapidly changing. I am glad to be able to have this meeting with you so that we can discuss bilateral cooperation and regional developments.







The United Arab Emirates is Russia’s reliable and long-standing partner in the Middle East. Today, we will be signing a memorandum on strategic cooperation and partnership. I think this would be a good step towards even stronger bilateral ties.

There is positive momentum in the relations between our countries in all areas, including political contacts, economic cooperation and security. Last year, trade increased 31 percent, and added another 70 percent in the first quarter of this year.







With your support, the UAE investment fund is working closely with the Russian Direct Investment Fund in Russia, with already over $2 billion in total investment. We are grateful for your trust. At the same time, I do not think you have any reason to be disappointed, since the return on this investment is way above the market average, reaching 15–17 percent.

We will carry this momentum forward, while also continuing to work in the energy sector, where our combined efforts, including by our friends from Saudi Arabia and all OPEC members in general, are yielding positive results in terms of rebalancing the oil and gas market.







We are especially grateful for your initiatives to promote cooperation in high technology, including your initiatives for the industrial sector in the context of the Innoprom Industrial Trade Fair in Yekaterinburg.

In other words, we have quite a few joint projects, and our interests converge in many areas. strongly hope, I am convinced that today’s visit will help strengthen bilateral relations.







Crown Prince Mohammed Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi (retranslated):

Thank you, Mr President.







I am glad to be in Moscow today. This is a good opportunity for us to meet with you and discuss the strengthening of bilateral relations. We consider them to be extremely important, and I hope that we will continue to strengthen them with you.







As you correctly pointed out, trade between us is stronger since our previous meeting. I expect that it will continue to grow stronger. I think that our cooperation will expand, thanks in part to the signing of the declaration on strategic partnership. Our relationship is very important, and we always strive to strengthen it with you.







Indeed, as you said, since our last meeting, there have been many developments in the Middle East. The United Arab Emirates seek to cooperate with the entire world community, with all our friends, and are working to ensure a prosperous future for our region. And we also look forward to a detailed discussion of this topic with you, Mr President.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57632
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 5th, 2018 #843
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Greetings on Border Guards Day



Vladimir Putin congratulated military and civilian personnel and veterans of the FSB Border Guards Service on their professional holiday, Border Guards Day.



May 28, 2018 - 09:00 - Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Comrades, veterans,

I congratulate military and civilian personnel and veterans of the FSB Border Guards Service on Border Guards Day.

The decree to establish the Border Guards Service was issued 100 years ago, in 1918, which were very challenging times for our country.

As we mark this historic occasion, we can be proud of the glorious tradition of courage that runs deep in history, spanning the frontier strongholds of the Russian epic heroes, the bogatyrs, those who served on Great Abatis Border fortification lines, soldiers and officers of the Separate Border Guard Corps, the immortal feats of heroic border guards who fearlessly went into combat in the summer of 1941, and those who performed their duties in Afghanistan and combatted international terrorism.

The memory of military valour, honour and unrivalled courage will never fade, and will serve as a moral compass for those who guard the borders of their Motherland, today and in the future.

Today, the FSB Border Guards Service carries out extremely responsible and multi-faceted tasks, and is very effective in enforcing border controls and protecting national interests.

The government will continue its comprehensive efforts to improve border management. We will do everything we can to make sure that our border guards have cutting-edge weapons, communications and inspection systems.

Comrades, thank you for your honest and responsible work. I am confident that you will always perform your duties with the same professionalism and perfection.

I wish you and your close ones good health, success and all the very best.

Happy Border Guards Day!




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57570






Greetings to Russian Olympic Assembly



Vladimir Putin sent a message of greeting to participants in the Russian Olympic Assembly.



May 29, 2018 - 11:00



The message reads, in part:

“The Russian Olympic movement has a long and proud history. We are proud of the victories of our athletes who have added new and outstanding pages to the victorious chronicle of the Russian and international sports and of their huge contribution to the development and promotion of Olympic ideals.

Russia’s Olympic movement is facing extremely challenging goals. The future and competitiveness of Russian high performance sports largely depend on the efficient achievement of these goals. We must regain our position in the international sports movement, work actively at international sports federations and continue to enhance the efficiency of our struggle against doping. We must also pay priority attention to developing zero tolerance of this negative factor at all stages of our athletes’ training. I would like to point out that the National Olympic Committee as the founder of the Russian anti-doping agency is responsible for attaining these goals.

I am confident that together we will overcome these hurdles and will continue to develop Russian sports to the benefit of the country and its citizens.”

The Russian Olympic Assembly, where a new National Olympic Committee President will be elected, is underway in Moscow.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57585






Greetings on 100th anniversary of Russian State University of Physical Education, Sport, Youth and Tourism



Vladimir Putin congratulated the staff of the Russian State University of Physical Education, Sport, Youth and Tourism on its 100th anniversary.



May 29, 2018 - 12:00



The message reads, in part:

“In recent years, the university has become a reputable educational and scientific centre, and today it is considered one of the world’s largest sports universities. Many great Olympic champions, record holders, talented coaches and mentors, who have contributed to Russian sports victories and triumphs and have done much to promote healthy lifestyle values in our society, have graduated from it.

It is important that the current staff, while preserving their predecessors’ best traditions, are open to new approaches. The practical orientation of the university, the advanced technologies that are used in education and a solid research base allow you to face the future with confidence and attract talented, active and committed young people.”

Since its establishment, the Russian State University of Physical Education, Sport, Youth and Tourism has trained over 60,000 top-level specialists, including about 5,000 foreign specialists from 115 countries, and 172 Olympic, European and world champions. As of today, the university has about 6,500 students, including 600 foreigners.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57591






Greetings to the 12th National Forum The Nation’s Health as the Foundation for a Flourishing Russia



Vladimir Putin sent greetings to the participants and guests of the 12th National Forum The Nation’s Health as the Foundation for a Flourishing Russia, which is underway in Moscow.



May 30, 2018 - 10:00



The message reads, in part:

“For many years, this forum has brought together leading experts in healthcare, researchers, heads of relevant ministries and agencies, and active, concerned people who enjoy credible professional authority.

The questions that arise at your meetings are of national importance – the preservation and strengthening of people’s health, the development of medical science, the promotion of active lifestyle values, and the improvement of the demographic and environmental situation in Russia.

I am confident that the packed agenda and the presence of prominent experts will enable the participants to discuss these and other, no less important, issues at the highest level, and to exchange practical experience.

We certainly expect business-like and constructive proposals that will contribute to the effective implementation of the state healthcare policy.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57601






Birthday greetings to pilot and cosmonaut Alexei Leonov



Vladimir Putin congratulated Alexei Leonov, pilot and cosmonaut, two-time Hero of the Soviet Union, on his birthday.



May 30, 2018 - 11:00



https://vnnforum.com/showpost.php?p=...&postcount=148



The message reads, in part:

“Both in our country and abroad you are known and respected as a worthy representative of the legendary team of Soviet cosmonauts, an outstanding professional, a tough and courageous man who was the first to walk in space.

You have made a great contribution to Russian cosmonautics and have promoted its outstanding achievements. You have shown your talents and exceptional abilities both in public life and your creative work.”

Alexei Leonov made two space flights and was the first man to walk in space. During his first flight on March 18, 1965, Leonov piloted the Voskhod-2 spacecraft with Pavel Belyayev and made a spacewalk, spending 12 minutes and 9 second in space and pushing out to the end of his 5.35-metre umbilicus. During the second flight on July 15–21, 1975, Leonov was the flight commander and took part in the first joint spacecraft docking between two nations, the Soyuz-19 (USSR) and an Apollo command module (US).




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57600






Ceremony to present senior officers and prosecutors to the President



A ceremony was held in the Kremlin to present senior officers and prosecutors appointed to higher command positions and awarded higher military (special) titles and ranks.



May 31, 2018 - 16:00 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Good afternoon, comrade officers,

I welcome you at the official ceremony in the Kremlin. Congratulations on your appointment to higher command positions and the conferment of higher military ranks.

This is an important step in your careers, since your appointments and titles are not only a recognition of your professional and personal excellence, but primarily a sign of new responsibility and the high trust that was placed in your ability to deal with serious tasks.

In terms of the military, this refers to further developing the Army and the Navy. We have recently discussed priorities in this field at a meeting in Sochi. This includes strengthening the nuclear triad, improving weapons systems used by the Aerospace Forces and the Navy, and ensuring that all the services and branches of the Armed Forces develop in a balanced way.







Just as before, special attention must be paid to combat training of troops. Let me reiterate that the combat readiness of our Armed Forces, their equipment with advanced weapons and, most importantly, the courage and valour of the Russian soldiers and officers are essential for safeguarding Russia’s sovereignty and independence, ensuring national interests and safety of our citizens, it is a guarantee of a global balance of power and peace on the planet.

Comrade officers,

The FSB staff is facing many tasks, primarily in countering terrorism. Statistics show that the number of terrorist crimes has been declining in the past few years. At the same time, it is necessary to enhance the capabilities of the entire system of fighting terrorism and extremism and consistently identify and eliminate the undercover terrorist cells. I hope you will do a good job in other key areas as well: counterintelligence, state border protection, and anti-corruption efforts.

More is required of the Foreign Intelligence Service given the complicated international situation. I have no doubt that its employees will continue working efficiently in all areas of your responsibility.







I would like to note that the personnel of the Federal Guard Service (FSO) are fulfilling their tasks at the proper level. I am sure that the substantial operational and technical capabilities of the FSO will allow you to continue acting with the same reliability and efficiency.

Russia’s development as a law-based democratic state should be buttressed by successes in countering crime and protecting the rights and freedoms of its citizens. This is a direct duty of the law enforcement agencies. This year the Russian police will mark its 300th anniversary. I would like to wish success to all of its employees. It is important to increase the percentage of cases solved and enhance the effectiveness of work in protecting public order, countering drug trafficking and traffic violations and controlling migration.

The Federal National Guard Service bears special responsibility. Its well-trained, mobile and technically equipped units and divisions should act effectively in any situation and also reliably guarantee security in crowded places.







Prosecutor services play an important role in ensuring rule of law, protection of people’s rights and freedoms. One of your absolute priorities is to ensure legal order on labour and social issues. It is important to immediately respond to backdated wages, pensions and child benefits. It is also necessary to constantly oversee protection of the legal rights and interests of entrepreneurs.

I expect that the Investigative Committee will continue to improve its performance, guided primarily by the criteria of efficiently, investigating crimes and strictly observing constitutional rights and procedural rules.

One of the significant tasks for the new minister and the entire staff of the Emergencies Ministry is to supervise operation of facilities visited by large crowds of people. Special attention must be paid to fire safety in public places. I am asking you to strictly discipline your officers for negligence in their duties.







Among the key responsibilities of the Federal Penitentiary Service is to create conditions for the detention of suspects, defendants and convicts according to legal and international standards. Strict compliance with these rules is, among other things, important as a preventive measure that helps people to break the cycle of crime and puts them on the path to rehabilitation.

Finally, once again, congratulations on your new appointments and titles. I wish you and your loved ones all the best.

Please.







Commander of the 2nd Guards Combined-Army of the Red Banner Army Major General Rustam Muradov:

Comrade Supreme Commander-in-Chief,

On behalf of the generals and admirals that are here in the Kremlin today and on my own behalf, let me sincerely thank you for the high praise of our performance in battle. We understand the full measure of responsibility we have in protecting our Motherland. I can say for sure that we can and will reliably defend Russia’s sovereignty.

In recent years, we have done a lot to strengthen the Armed Forces. Their combat capability is growing, the planned re-armament is underway, and the pace of combat training is increasing. Personnel are learning how to use advanced equipment and military hardware. Their professional skills are improving thanks to their experience fighting international terrorism in the Syrian Arab Republic.







Your personal participation in developing the Armed Forces is a big reason why these tasks are being successful carried out.

Comrade Supreme Commander-in-Chief,

I can report that the 2nd Army under my command is combat ready, disciplined and capable of fulfilling any task.

According to 2017 results, the army achieved the best results in the Central Military District, with 12 units being designated strike forces. The brigade’s re-equipment with Iskander-M complexes has significantly increased the army’s fire power.

The army’s high level of training and combat readiness was confirmed during the snap inspection this April.

The officers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers are all proud to serve in the Armed Forces, they are highly motivated, displaying moral stability and resilience.

Let me assure you that any tasks you set, regardless of scale or difficulty, will be fulfilled with high-quality and in time.







Minister of the Interior of the Republic of Adygeya Major-General Vladimir Alai:

Comrade Supreme Commander-in-Chief,

Let me, on behalf of my colleagues, express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to be present here, in the Kremlin, at this solemn reception. For each of us, this is a great honour, an important and unforgettable event.

We see our appointment to new positions and the conferment of special ranks as a sign of your trust and our personal responsibility for the expected results in the assigned area of ​​operational and official activities.

Today, the personnel of the Russian Federation law enforcement bodies face a complex criminal situation as they perform their duty. New types of criminality are appearing, including in high-tech areas, and existing types of criminality, primarily terrorist and extremist crimes, are becoming much more complicated.







At the same time, the operational situation in all regions of the country is under control. Police officers together with colleagues from other law enforcement agencies are putting up fierce resistance to criminals and reliably ensuring the safety of citizens and the rule of law in cities and towns both in their daily work and during international political and sports events.

Let me assure you, Comrade Supreme Commander-in-Chief, that we will do our best to fulfil the tasks set before the Interior Ministry and will wear our high general ranks with dignity and honour, justifying the high confidence of the country's leadership with our excellent service and our entire lives.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57612






Greetings to International Children’s Day festival participants and guests



Vladimir Putin sent greetings to participants and guests of the International Children’s Day festival.



June 1, 2018 - 09:00



The message reads, in part:

“Today Moscow welcomes children from across Russia and from other countries. As always, I hope they will enjoy our warm welcome and the busy cultural programme and guided tours. I hope they will have plenty of chances to socialise, make new friends and learn about the life of children in other countries.

I am glad to note that this large-scale festival has been organised for many years by the Russian Children’s Foundation. Thanks to the selfless efforts of the staff who work hard to support children, instill high moral, spiritual and patriotic ideals, promote the values of a healthy and proactive lifestyle, many popular social, charitable and educational projects have become reality.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57618






Greetings to Immortal Regiment Movement conference



Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to the conference of the Immortal Regiment National Patriotic Public Movement of Russia.



June 1, 2018 - 09:00



The message reads, in part:

“Since its inception, the Immortal Regiment movement has won public respect, has become a truly nationwide event, and has found resonance among millions in Russia and beyond.

I am confident that such noble initiatives as this one will bring together people of different generations in the name of preserving the memory of our people’s heroism during the Great Patriotic War.

I wish you success in you productive efforts to bring up our young people in the spirit of patriotism, civil awareness and respect for the glorious military and labour traditions of our history.”

The Immortal Regiment is a public march whose participants carry the photographs of their relatives who fought in the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945. The march is held on Victory Day (May 9) in Russia and other countries.

This year, over 2,900 events were held as part of Immortal Regiment marches across Russia. Over 10 million people took part in these marches, including over 1 million in Moscow.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57630






Greetings on opening of 6th Inter-Regional Economic Forum Development Regions: New Tasks, New Solutions, New Opportunities



Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to the participants and guests of the 6th Inter-Regional Economic Forum Development Regions: New Tasks, New Solutions, New Opportunities



June 1, 2018 - 09:30



The message reads, in part:

“Since its foundation the forum has established itself as a platform for effective and constructive dialogue between the government, businesses and experts on a wide range of issues on the socioeconomic agenda. It offers a venue for a professional debate on the challenges currently faced by the Russian regions, efforts to improve the business and investment climate, and step up cooperation and partnership ties.

This year, the forum focuses on modernisation and new technology for the Russian economy, improving its competitiveness and export potential, and training qualified professionals for research-intensive industries. Regions, businesses and educational institutions have a major role to play in delivering on these ambitious tasks.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57628






Greetings on 100th anniversary of Federal Archival Service of Russia



Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to the staff and veterans and those attending a meeting held on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Federal Archival Service of Russia.



June 1, 2018 - 10:00



The message reads, in part:

“This anniversary is an occasion to express our gratitude to the many generations of your personnel for their selfless and painstaking work and dedication. Thanks to your competence and commitment to the best professional traditions, we now have a unique library of documentary materials on the rise of the Russian state and the main periods in its history. These materials are the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of our country, through which we can feel the connection of epochs and the living traditions of patriotism and public spirit, which are our pride.

The archival profession is reaching out towards new development horizons: you are keeping pace with new realities, using modern information technology and innovations to increase the public accessibility of archival materials and implementing interesting educational and awareness-raising projects.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57629






Greetings to participants, organisers and guests of 49th Belaya Ladya national open chess tournament



Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to participants, organisers and guests of the 49th Belaya Ladya (White Rook) national open school team chess tournament.



June 1, 2018 - 10:05



The message reads, in part:

“All these years, your prestigious tournament has been working to fulfil its mission, which is to promote chess, a wonderful and intellectual game. You identify talented children and offer them an opportunity to prove their talent and learn from famous chess masters.

I would like to say that much attention has always been given to chess in Russia, in particular by promoting chess at school. The Belaya Ladya tournament has played a vital role in the careers of many award-winning chess players. It helped them succeed in their profession. It is good that your tournament is growing stronger every year and attracting an increasing number of young participants from around the world.

I wish you success and vivid impressions from this festival and the Black Sea coast of Russia.”

The Belaya Ladya (White Rook) national chess tournament was first held in 1969 and became an international event in 2015. Over 100 teams from 78 Russian regions and 22 other countries are participating in the tournament now underway in Sochi.

Some 50,000 school students under 14 took part in the elimination competitions that were held in their regions between September 2017 and May 2018.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57624






Visit to Morozov Children’s Hospital



June 1, 2018 - 15:00 - Moscow







Vladimir Putin toured a new building of the Morozov Children’s City Clinical Hospital on International Children’s Day. He was shown around the hospital and talked to medical personnel and several patients.

The hospital’s Chief Physician and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin told the President about the hospital’s work.

Vladimir Putin also took part in a videoconference with a hospital in Sevastopol, Crimea.








Videoconference with a Sevastopol children’s hospital

Vladimir Putin:

Mr Slobodyanik, colleagues, good afternoon. Greetings on Children’s Day.

Mr Koltunov [Chief Physician at the Morozov Children’s City Clinical Hospital] has just spoken about the work with advanced technology, including with your hospital in Sevastopol.

What do you think about how the work is organised, and what would you like to add?







Chief Physician Alexei Slobodyanik:

Mr President, the work in this hospital has been underway for a very long time. Thanks to the Moscow Government’s support, we have installed advanced telecommunications equipment and have held over 50 consultations as of today.







Now we can receive all the necessary information as well as hold videoconference consultations with our colleagues weekly.

However, it is not just about videoconferences. It is virtually possible to be treated at the Morozov Children’s Hospital here monthly. Recently, we have sent over 100 children to the Morozov Hospital, and about 25 children have received high-tech medical care there.







It goes without saying that this would not have happened without the support of the Moscow Government and its supervision over Sevastopol. In particular, we would not have had this equipment or such close contacts without the Moscow Government and its joint work with the Governor.







Vladimir Putin:

Does your clinic cooperate with other Sevastopol hospitals?







Alexei Slobodyanik:

Yes, of course.

We use the telecommunications equipment for this. We work actively with the Kulakov Centre, the Filatov Hospital and St Petersburg hospitals, because this equipment allows us to hold consultations with all the leading clinics.







Vladimir Putin:

Excellent. I wish you success. Greetings on Children’s Day once again. Thank you.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57631






Presenting Order of Parental Glory



On International Children’s Day, Vladimir Putin presented the Order of Parental Glory to parents of large families from Russian regions. The ceremony was held in the Alexander Hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace.



June 1, 2018 - 18:35 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Friends,

I am very happy to welcome all the participants of this ceremony for presenting the Order of Parental Glory here, in the Kremlin. As per tradition, this ceremony coincides with International Children’s Day. This is symbolic, because parental love, care and attention as well as support are the most needed and genuine protection a child can have.







There are large close-knit families here in this hall today, who are generous with this kind of maternal and paternal love. Families with many children’s smiles and warmth, where there is openness, mutual help and trust. You have chosen (I am speaking to the parents first of all) a happy, noble, but also a very difficult path of great responsibility and worry that demands all of your efforts, patience and strength.







And, of course, your constant work on yourself, because words alone, even words from the closest people – parents – are not enough to instill such values as kindness, fairness and hard work. You must set a personal example to prove your loyalty to these values every day. This is the only way to raise a respectable person, an upstanding citizen of Russia. And your families are the best proof of this.







Of course, the work of parents does not involve vacations or days off, but it is an amazing reward in itself that outweighs all the difficulties. This is a chance to see your children taking their first steps, growing up and learning, to discover the world once again together with them and to celebrate their success and achievements.







You and your families, represent this very beautiful parental happiness. And I am sure you bring joy and inspiration to many people, especially young people, those who are still working on an image of their future life and dreaming of love, a good family and, of course, of children. Support for family, motherhood and childhood remains among the unconditional priorities of the state.







We will continue to do everything to support people like you. We are, of course, committed to solving the so-called demographic issues, to having natural population growth in the country. In official terms, we need to increase the birth rate. These are all official and, at first sight, somewhat lifeless words and figures, but this is a reflection and continuation of the changes underway in our country.







I understand that parents, especially those who dream of a large family, need confidence that their children will have access to modern, quality education and healthcare, that they will be able to improve their living conditions, live in comfortable, well-organised towns, villages, cities; that every child will have the opportunity to do what he or she is interested in and develop his or her abilities and talents. We consistently work in all these areas and will continue to do so.







In particular, as you know, the maternity capital programme has been extended, and the possible ways to use it are being expanded. Since the beginning of this year, families with a second or a third child enjoy subsidised mortgage interest rates. I hope that the programme to increase the availability of nurseries, which we are launching following a similar project for kindergartens, will also produce the kinds of results people need. We will continue to work on these areas. We need to ensure that families, especially those with many children, are surrounded by attention from the state and society. We will do our best to achieve this.

Let me once again sincerely congratulate you on your well-deserved state awards and thank all the large, close-knit families of our great country that you represent.

Thank you for your attention.


<…>


Vladimir Putin:

Friends,

People from different Russian regions, of different nationalities and occupations are here today. There is one thing that unites you all: your soul and your kindheartedness towards children. The people here today are average, ordinary people, but they are the most important ones for Russia, because you bring up children. Children are the most important thing for any state, and you put your whole heart into this; you are extremely professional in the broadest sense of the word.







I am grateful for your warm words addressed to my colleagues and me. We are really doing something to support families with children in general and large families in particular.







I know that it is still too little. But we will try to do everything we can to support your families and other families like yours. Let me assure you that as the country’s capabilities increase, we will keep a close eye on this.







Let me stress again that we have not done all that we could have done. We will work on this. I would like to return the kind words you had for me. I wish you good health and emotional fortitude. I wish you success in the noble work you have dedicated your lives to.

Thank you very much.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57635






Greetings on opening of 52nd National Pushkin Poetry Festival



Vladimir Putin sent a message of greetings to the participants, organisers and guests of the 52nd National Pushkin Poetry Festival.



June 2, 2018 - 11:00



The message reads, in part:

“Pushkin Days are celebrated across Russia every year in early June. Boldino, the family estate of the great Russian poet, is rightly considered to be one of the main celebration venues. The most brilliant pages in Alexander Pushkin’s life and writing, most notably the famous Boldino Autumn, are connected with this spectacularly beautiful place.

I would like to stress that such significant, large-scale initiatives are very important today. They carry out a noble educational mission, make a tremendous contribution to the preservation and popularisation of our rich historical, literary, cultural and spiritual heritage, and instill in young people the feeling of pride in their Fatherland.”

The National Pushkin Poetry Festival is held on June 1–6. The festival is timed to coincide with Russian Language Day, marked on June 6 – the birthday of the great Russian poet, the founder of modern Russian literary language Alexander Pushkin (1799–1837).




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57638






Message of greetings on opening of 29th Open Russian Film Festival Kinotavr



Vladimir Putin sent a message of greetings to the participants, organisers and guests of the 29th Open Russian Film Festival Kinotavr.



June 2, 2018 - 18:00



The message reads, in part:

“This wonderful forum has traversed a vibrant and eventful road in the recent years and is justifiably believed to be one of the most popular events in the country’s cultural life. It brings together a large number of participants and guests with its interesting competition programme and a warm welcoming atmosphere, to show them the best new Russian films and, of course, to give them unforgettable impressions of the Black Sea coast of Russia.

It is crucial that the famous Kinotavr is committed to its traditions and invariably supports young filmmakers’ projects. I should stress that many debutants of the previous festivals managed to brilliantly realise their talent and became acknowledged masters. They are making significant creative progress today, creating profound insightful films that worthily represent our country at prestigious international festivals.

I am confident that this year’s forum will make a hefty contribution to promoting and popularising the cinema art, and will become a true celebration for all those in attendance.”

Kinotavr is an annual Russian film festival held in Sochi. This year it takes place from June 2 to June 10.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57639
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 5th, 2018 #844
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Meeting with Sergei Nosov



May 28, 2018 - 13:05 - The Kremlin, Moscow













Vladimir Putin held a working meeting with Sergei Nosov to announce his appointment as Acting Governor of Magadan Region.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57571






Executive order On early termination of powers of Magadan Region Governor



May 28, 2018 - 13:10



The President has accepted the early resignation of Governor of Magadan Region Vladimir Pecheny at the latter’s request, and has appointed Sergei Nosov Acting Governor of Magadan Region until an elected Governor takes office.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57572






Meeting with Aisen Nikolayev



May 28, 2018 - 14:30 - The Kremlin, Moscow










Vladimir Putin held a working meeting with Aisen Nikolayev to announce his appointment as Acting Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57574






Executive order on early termination of mandate of Head of Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)



May 28, 2018 - 14:35



The President has resolved to accept the early resignation of Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Yegor Borisov and to appoint Aisen Nikolayev Acting Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) until an elected Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) comes into office.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57573






Meeting with Alexander Moor



May 29, 2018 - 13:15







Vladimir Putin held a working meeting with Alexander Moor to announce the decision to appoint him Acting Governor of Tyumen Region.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57584






Executive Order On Acting Governor of Tyumen Region



May 29, 2018 - 13:20



Due to the early resignation of Tyumen Region Governor Vladimir Yakushev, Vladimir Putin has appointed Alexander Moor Acting Governor of Tyumen Region until an elected governor can take office.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57583






Working meeting with Dmitry Artyukhov



May 29, 2018 - 14:40 - The Kremlin, Moscow







Vladimir Putin held a working meeting with Dmitry Artyukhov to announce the decision to appoint him Acting Governor of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Area.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57586






Executive Order On Acting Governor of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Area



May 29, 2018 - 14:45



Following the early resignation of Governor Dmitry Kobylkin, the President appointed Dmitry Artyukhov Acting Governor of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Area until an elected governor takes office.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57587






Meeting with Vasily Orlov



May 30, 2018 - 15:10 - The Kremlin, Moscow
















Vladimir Putin had a working meeting with Vasily Orlov, during which he announced his decision to appoint him Acting Governor of the Amur Region.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57603






Executive Order on Acting Governor of Amur Region



May 30, 2018 - 15:15



Due to the early resignation of Amur Region Governor Alexander Kozlov, Vladimir Putin appointed Vasily Orlov Acting Governor of the Amur Region until an elected governor takes office.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57604






Meeting with Viktor Tomenko



May 30, 2018 - 15:25 - The Kremlin, Moscow













Vladimir Putin had a working meeting with Viktor Tomenko, during which the President announced his decision to appoint him Acting Governor of the Altai Territory.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57606






Executive Order on early termination of Altai Territory Governor’s mandate



May 30, 2018 - 15:30



Following Altai Territory Governor Alexander Karlin’s request on the early termination of his powers, the President resolved to accept his resignation and appointed Viktor Tomenko Acting Governor of the Altai Territory until an elected governor assumes office.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57605






Meeting with permanent members of the Security Council



Vladimir Putin chaired a meeting with permanent members of the Security Council.



May 31, 2018 - 16:00 - The Kremlin, Moscow







The discussion focused on the current issues of domestic social and economic policy and the preparations for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.







Vladimir Putin informed Security Council members about the meetings he had on the sidelines of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, including talks with Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe and President of France Emmanuel Macron.







Taking part in the meeting were 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, 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.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57613






Working meeting with Novgorod Region Governor Andrei Nikitin



Vladimir Putin had a working meeting with Novgorod Region Governor Andrei Nikitin to discuss the socioeconomic situation in the region.



May 31, 2018 - 20:00 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Nikitin, the topic is the traditional one – the situation in the Novgorod Region.



Governor of the Novgorod Region Andrei Nikitin:

I would like to report some results, Mr President. The very first thing that you drew attention to is roads. When we got down to work, only 26 percent of our roads were in good condition. Thanks to your support, it was already 35 percent by the end of last year. We expect it to reach 42 percent in this year’s results.



Vladimir Putin:

In your report it says 42 percent in 2019.



Andrei Nikitin:

This is as of January 1, 2019, so it will definitely be 42 percent in 2019.

Of course, a significant issue is the mortality. Today we have a rather high mortality on the roads. It is not in keeping with the May executive order, so it will likely be our main focus for the next few years.



Vladimir Putin:

Was there a slight decrease?



Andrei Nikitin:

Yes, there was. But we must improve the M10 highway and regional roads in terms of guard rails and speed limits.

The region’s economy is growing. There has been a 105 percent increase in industrial production. Private investment has grown by some 7 billion this year.

I am pleased to note that exports are also growing. We have worked quite well with the Russian Export Centre. About 40 new enterprises entered export markets; these are medium-sized businesses. Of course, this is of great interest for us. We are close to ports and roads. All this creates the correct economic task.



Vladimir Putin:

What products are mainly exported?



Andrei Nikitin:

Such a simple example – we have Russia’s only IKEA plant in the region. There is no IKEA store, as the region is too small, but the plant manufactures products for Moscow, St Petersburg and Brazil.

We started to export doors – we have a good door-making plant. We also began to export food. We are negotiating with Japan – we are in the final stage of certifying our agricultural products. We will export seaberry extracts and vegetable oils to Japan. So, active work is underway.

Last year, with the Government’s backing, we opened a special zone, and it is already practically completely filled with potential investors today.

Regarding the zone we want to set up outside Novgorod: we discussed it with the State Council on Industrial Policy, we are working closely with the Ministry of Economic Development, and we know already how to fill it up. I think it will add around 40–50 billion rubles of investment overall in the coming several years, that is, it is comparable to the current annual volume.

We are certainly aware that it is not always correct to focus on external investors. This is why we have changed our legislation on investor support to boost existing enterprises and modernise production.







Vladimir Putin:

It does not really make a difference to us if the investor is foreign or domestic. We have to create favourable conditions for all who invest.



Andrei Nikitin:

But we have gone up in the Agency for Strategic Initiative’s ranking, from 53rd to 29th. This is not a top spot, but it is closer to a good one. It is important to me that productivity grows; therefore, starting this year, thanks to the changes we had made, all existing enterprises launched modernisation programmes. This will allow us to significantly go up in terms of quality and export potential.

In addition, of course, we have two innovations: taxes paid by small businesses go to the local districts so that the people in charge there realise that they have to protect small businesses. We have agreed that if the enterprises located in the region bring back their headquarters from Moscow or St Petersburg, I will transfer 80 percent of additional taxes received to the district. Several enterprises have already used the opportunity. It is great because they have people working for them there, and this money goes to kindergartens, recreation centres, in some places this money goes to build roads. And the enterprise, the owner realises that he is not just paying taxes somewhere, he pays them to improve his own workers’ standard of living. The local residents also realise that economic development is measured not by some abstract numbers but by jobs for them. I would like to thank you for your support last year.



Vladimir Putin:

From the Reserve Fund?



Andrei Nikitin:

Yes, practically all the region’s districts got a bit of that support. We repaired schools and gyms in some areas, kindergartens, hospitals and senior homes in others. Some of the places had not been renovated for many years. This was a very important matter. Thank you very much. For many districts, that was a considerable leap forward in terms of quality of life.



Vladimir Putin:

If people saw it, this is exactly our goal.



Andrei Nikitin:

We are paying much attention to youth affairs. We are working in several directions here.

Firstly, we provide modern education. We have opened a quantorium or a technology park for young people. We know that this is an expensive project and not all districts can implement it. Therefore, we are using this quantorium to set up mobile mini-quantoriums at schools and we are reopening engineering clubs of the kind we had in the Soviet era. We hope that some 20 percent of children and teenagers from 8 to 14 will join these clubs.

Another interesting initiative is the Captain Nikolai Varukhin Marine Centre. Nikolai has received the badge of merit For Mentorship under your executive order. It is the only children’s marine centre with vessels that has remained in Russia.

We are working with the Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI) and Dmitry Peskov [Director of the ASI’s Young Professionals project] to create a National Technology Initiative centre for unmanned marine vessels. In other words, our Marine Centre, which was established 60 years ago, is moving with the times.

As for physical fitness and sport, my goal last year was to complete the facilities where construction dragged on for decades. There is only one uncompleted sports and recreation centre left, but it will open to the public in two weeks.

My next goal is to attract people to sports by creating outdoor sports grounds. We have launched a project Be Sporty with outdoor morning exercises held at these sports ground, some of them with famous Novgorod athletes. We hope to do more than has been planned in sports.







Vladimir Putin:

How many people do you plan to involve in physical fitness and sports?



Andrei Nikitin:

We have set the target at 60 percent. In addition, we have very active pensioners, who practice an active lifestyle, including Nordic walking and swimming. We try to do our best to keep up this spirit and to develop an active sporting lifestyle as much as we can.



Vladimir Putin:

Sixty percent is a good figure. When do you expect to reach this target?



Andrei Nikitin:

I think we can reach it in 2021 or 2022, which is sooner than stipulated in the executive order.



Vladimir Putin:

Very good.



Andrei Nikitin:

We are also working to improve the urban environment, as was done around the country. One of our big problems is the lack of good embankments. Our colleagues at the Strelka Institute for Media, Architecture and Design in Moscow have created a concept for us, and the Government has promised support. I think we will start building in a landmark area, near the theatre and the Novgorod Kremlin.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57617
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 10th, 2018 #845
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Greetings on the opening of the Development of Parliamentarism International Forum



Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to the participants, organisers and guests of the Development of Parliamentarism International Forum, which has opened in Moscow.



June 4, 2018 - 12:00



The message reads, in part:

“Your forum has convened parliamentary delegations, the leaders of political parties, public figures and experts from many countries, as well as representatives of international organisations. This impressive format is evidence of the high prestige of your forum. It also means that you can hold practical discussions on a wide range of current issues, from the fight against terrorism and illegal migration, to information security to the applied aspects of current law-making and the development of democratic representative bodies.

I would like to say that parliaments around the world play a major part in the improvement of national legislation and in the search for appropriate answers to modern challenges and threats. This explains the high demand for parliamentary diplomacy. It can strengthen trust among nations and positively influence the settlement of the most painful international and regional problems.”

Over 500 international participants are taking part in the forum, including MPs and experts from 96 countries, as well as 58 official parliamentary delegations and representatives of 11 international parliamentary associations.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57661






Interview with Austrian ORF television channel



Ahead of his visit to Austria, the President of Russia answered questions from Austria’s ORF news presenter Armin Wolf.



June 4, 2018 - 22:00 - Moscow








Austrian Broadcasting Corporation (ORF) news presenter Armin Wolf:

Mr President, your first foreign visit takes you to Austria. Is this is a kind of incentive for a benevolent policy towards Russia on the part of the Austrian Government, which comes out against new EU sanctions and has not expelled any Russian diplomats over the ‘Skripal case’?



President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

I do not think such a highly respected European state as Austria needs any incentives. We have long enjoyed good and profound relations with Austria. Austria is our traditional and reliable partner in Europe. In spite of all the complications over the years, our dialogue in the sphere of politics, security and the economy has never been interrupted. Our trade with Austria grew by 40.5 percent last year. We respect Austria’s position and its neutral status. Russia, of course, is one of the guarantors of this status, having taken part in the drafting of the state treaty.

We cooperate with the Austrian Republic in various spheres: in the economy, as I have said, in politics and security. In the economy, we cooperate in various areas. Not only energy, though I would like to say more about it later on, but also in aircraft construction, aviation safety and hydroelectric engineering. More and more Austrian capital is invested in Russia. We see this as a sign of trust in the economic policy pursued by the Government of the Russian Federation.

We are implementing major projects. Owing to our cooperation, Baumgarten, and therefore Austria, has become Europe’s biggest gas hub.

We have many common and similar interests, so we were glad to welcome Federal Chancellor Kurtz in Russia in February of this year. It is out of these considerations that my visit to Austria is being prepared and I hope will take place soon.



Armin Wolf:

The Russian Government partially maintains good relations with some members of the Austrian Government. In 2016, the United Russia party signed a partnership agreement with the Free Party of Austria. Why this party in particular?



Vladimir Putin:

You said that the Russian Government maintains good relations with Austria and followed up this analysis from a purely party perspective.

I was a co-founder of the United Russia party, but I am not currently a member because I am the head of the Russian state. It is true that the Russian Government is working in a very hands-on and fairly profound manner with their colleagues in Austria without displaying any political preferences.

As regards the policy towards Austria, we have a national consensus to some extent, there are no political forces that oppose the development of relations with Austria, but there may be some preferences at the political level, at the party level. The fact that United Russia has established relations with the party you have mentioned – these are purely inter-party relations. I am sure that United Russia would be happy to develop contacts with other political forces as well.



Armin Wolf:

You headed this party for a long time, now Mr Medvedev is its leader. Many observers believe that the Russian leadership would like, through United Russia, to maintain links with nationalist parties because they want to divide the European Union. How do you account for the close links between the Russian leadership and the parties that are critical of the European Union?



Vladimir Putin:

It would be better if you put this question to the Russian Prime Minister Mr Medvedev, who is the leader of the party. But this is what I can say with a fair degree of certainty. It is not our aim to divide anything or anybody in Europe. On the contrary, we want to see a united and prosperous European Union, because the European Union is our biggest trade and economic partner. The more problems there are within the European Union, the greater the risks and uncertainties for us.

The mere fact that our trade with European Union countries has dropped by half, from over 400 billion to 250 billion, speaks for itself. Why do we need to see a further drop? Why rock the European Union in order to suffer further losses and incur costs or miss possible benefits from cooperation with the European Union?

On the contrary, we need to increase cooperation with the European Union. If we work at all or work more intensively with some than with others, we proceed from purely pragmatic considerations. We seek to cooperate with those who publicly declare that they are ready and willing to cooperate with us. This alone is the reason why our political parties, groups and movements have contacts at the political and party level with certain European ones, and not the wish to “rock” or impede something within the European Union.

We keep 40 percent of our gold and currency reserves in the euro. Why should we shake up all of this, including the single European currency as a derivative of the rocking of the Union? I would like people in Austria and in the other European Union countries to put this idea out of their minds.



Armin Wolf:

This notwithstanding, the governments of Western countries, Europe and, first of all, the United States, are accusing Russia of using hackers to meddle in other countries’ domestic politics. In all of your interviews you say that this is not so; however, there is no doubt that the so-called Internet Research Agency based in St Petersburg has been seeking for many years to influence public debate on Facebook. These so-called troll factories are owned by Yevgeny Prigozhin – you know him very well, he is referred to as “Putin’s chef”, since he caters for all your guests. Is it good that a person who maintains such close relations with the Russian leadership is managing troll factories?



Vladimir Putin:

You said “Russia” and then switched to hackers, didn’t you? By saying “Russia”, did you mean Russia as a state, or some Russian citizens, hackers, or some legal entities for that matter?



Armin Wolf:

I was speaking about Mr Prigozhin.



Vladimir Putin:

I will tell you about Mr Prigozhin.

Please make a distinction between the Russian Government, Russia as a state, Russian citizens and certain legal entities.

You have just said that Mr Prigozhin is referred to as “Putin’s chef”. Indeed, he runs a restaurant business, it is his job; he is a restaurant keeper in St Petersburg. But now let me ask you: do you really think that a person who is in the restaurant business, even if this person has some hacking opportunities and owns a private firm engaged in this activity – I do not even know what he does – could use it to sway elections in the United States or a European country? Could it be that the media and political standards in the countries of the consolidated West have been driven down to such a low level that a Russian restaurant keeper can sway voters in a European country or the United States? Isn’t it ridiculous?



Armin Wolf:

Mr President, it may be good or bad but it is not the truth. Mr Prigozhin does not only run restaurants, he has many businesses that have contracts with the Defence Ministry and receive a lot of government orders; he spends millions of dollars on the troll factory and people there write these posts. Why does a restaurant keeper need this?



Vladimir Putin:

You can ask him. Russia as a state has nothing to do with this.



Armin Wolf:

But you know the man very well.



Vladimir Putin:

So what? I know many people in St Petersburg and Moscow. Ask them.

There is such a personality in the United State – Mr Soros, who interferes in all affairs around the world. I often hear from my American friends that ‘America as a state has nothing to do with [his activities]’. There are rumours circulating now that Mr Soros is planning to make the euro highly volatile. Experts are already discussing this. Ask the State Department why he is doing this. The State Department will say that it has nothing to do with them – rather it is Mr Soros’ private affair. With us, it is Mr Prigozhin’s private affair. This is my answer. Are you satisfied with it?



Armin Wolf:

Mr Prigozhin, along with 12 other Russian citizens, has been indicted in the United States for meddling in the presidential elections. You and Donald Trump talk so nicely over the telephone, but Trump has been President for a year and a half and there still has not been a bilateral summit between you, in contrast to Bush and Obama with whom you met within the first six months of their presidencies. Why is it taking so long?



Vladimir Putin:

You should ask our colleagues in the United States. In my opinion, this is the result of the ongoing acute political struggle in the United States. Indeed, Donald Trump and I have, firstly, met more than once at various international venues and secondly, we regularly talk over the phone. Our foreign affairs departments and special services are working fairly well together in areas of mutual interest, above all in the fight against international terrorism. This work is ongoing.

As for personal meetings, I think that the possibility of these meetings depends to a large extent on the internal political situation in the United States. The congressional election campaign is getting under way and then there will be the next presidential election, and the President of the United States is coming under attack over various matters. I think this is the main reason.

In a recent telephone conversation, Donald said he was worried about the possibility of a new arms race. I fully agree with him. However, to prevent a possible arms race (we did not initiate such a course of events, we did not withdraw from the Anti-Missile Defence Treaty, we merely responded to the threats that arise for us from this, but I agree with the US President) we should think about it, we should do something about it, give corresponding instructions to our Foreign Ministry and the US State Department. The experts should start working in a concrete way. I hope that some day this work in the interests of the United States and Russia, indeed in the interests of the whole world will begin, including between us personally.



Armin Wolf:

Many are worried about the situation in North Korea. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov recently visited there. Do you think a nuclear showdown between the United States and North Korea is a possibility?



Vladimir Putin:

I do not even want to think about it. It is a dreadful idea. Russia, of all countries, is not interested in it because North Korea is our neighbour. Incidentally, one of the nuclear test sites, the one that I think North Korea is shutting down, is located, if my memory does not fail me, within 190 kilometres of the Russian border. This is something absolutely real for us.

Therefore, we will do all we can to ease tensions on the Korean Peninsula. So of course we pin great hopes on the personal meeting between President Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, because mutual claims have gone way too far.

I think this road – the road towards denuclearisation of North Korea – should be a two-way road. If the North Korean leader is backing up his intentions with practical actions, for example, giving up new tests of ballistic missiles, new nuclear tests, the other side should reciprocate in a tangible manner. In this connection, I consider it counterproductive to continue military activities, military exercises and everything that is related to this. I very much hope that the situation will move forward in a positive way.

We for our part are ready to bend every effort towards this end. We have always been in contact with the North Korean leadership; we offer several joint tripartite economic projects. These are infrastructure projects, a railway from Russia to North Korea and further to South Korea, the pipeline project, work in the energy sector in a three-way or perhaps in a four-way format together with China.

Incidentally, China has done a great deal to direct the situation towards détente and denuclearisation. If we pool our efforts, including in the framework of the Russia-China road map, our joint proposal to resolve the North Korean nuclear problem, I think we will achieve the desired results.



Armin Wolf:

One of the most complicated issues with regard to Russia is Ukraine. In 2014, Flight MH17 was shot down in Ukraine, 290 people died. The international investigative commission announced a few days ago that the jet was shot down by a Russian army missile system, that it was a convoy from Russia that had come to the Ukrainian insurgents in eastern Ukraine. There is a video; there are telephone conversations and dozens of eyewitnesses. You have been saying that this is not true for about a year but practically nobody believes your words.

Are you not thereby putting the veracity of Russian statements at stake? Maybe it is time to acknowledge that the insurgents in eastern Ukraine used Russian military equipment to commit that horrendous crime?



Vladimir Putin:

I want to note that both sides to the conflict – the Ukrainian army and even Ukrainian volunteer battalions who are accountable to nobody save their commanders, and the Donbass militia, the armed units in Donbass – they all use Soviet and Russian-made weapons. All of them. The two sides have all sorts of systems – both firearms, aviation, and anti-aircraft systems. All of them were made in Russia.



Armin Wolf:

But now they know what missile it was: a Buk system missile. It was a Russian army brigade in Kursk. This is known for a fact, yet you still deny it. Would it not be better to admit that the missile had indeed come from Russia? Would it not be better to officially acknowledge that Russia supported the insurgents in the east of Ukraine with weapons?



Vladimir Putin:

If you collect all your patience and let me finish, you will find out my view on this issue.

As I said, both sides use Russian-made weapons, and the Russian army has exactly the same systems the experts are talking about, which were certainly manufactured in the former Soviet Union or in Russia. This is number one.

Number two. Russian experts have been denied access to the investigation, our arguments are not taken into consideration, and nobody in the commission is interested in hearing us out. Conversely, the Ukrainian side, which is a party interested in the results of the investigation, has access to it. Meanwhile, it is responsible at least for failing to prohibit civilian aircraft to fly in the conflict zone in violation of ICAO’s international norms.

We are still unable to get answers to some questions regarding the activities of Ukrainian air forces in that region, at that place and at that time. The tragedy we are talking about is terrible, and I feel immensely sorry for the victims and their families, but this investigation must be objective and comprehensive.

Just a second, please, do not rush. Let me speak, otherwise we are going to have a monologue on your part instead of an interview.







Armin Wolf:

Nevertheless, let me say briefly – yes, we know where the missile came from. But what do Holland, Australia or Malaysia have to gain by blaming Russia if it was not a Russian missile that belonged to the Russian army?



Vladimir Putin:

We do not see it that way; we have a different point of view. You now listed countries that allegedly believe that it was a Russian missile and that Russia is implicated in that terrible tragedy. I regret to disappoint you. Quite recently, Malaysian officials declared that they do not see Russia’s complicity in that tragic event; they have no proof that Russia is implicated. Are you really not aware of that? Did you not see the statements by Malaysian officials?

What do we think about this issue? If we really want to get to the bottom of things in that horrendous event and reveal all the factors that would allow us to render a final conclusion, all arguments should be taken into account, including the ones offered by Russia. And it would be entirely fair for Russian experts to have access to the investigation.



Armin Wolf:

The international investigative commission now claims that they have in fact taken into account all arguments. Many people do not believe Russian arguments because a few years ago in Crimea you said that the famous “green men,” the fighters in green uniforms without identifying insignia, were all local self-defense forces. But a little later it was revealed that they were indeed Russian soldiers. After that, you admitted many times that those were Russian army personnel even though you denied that earlier. Why should we believe you now?



Vladimir Putin:

Now that you mentioned Crimea. Do you know that in the mid 2000s, right in the vicinity of Crimea, a Russian civilian jet was downed over the Black Sea? It was done by the Ukrainian army during a drill. And the first reaction of the Ukrainian officials was that Ukraine had nothing to do with it. A civilian plane was shot down en route from Israel to Russia. Everyone onboard died, of course. Ukraine flatly denied its involvement in that terrible incident but had to admit it later. And why should we believe Ukrainian officials? So in response to your question about Crimea, I put the ball back in your court.



Armin Wolf:

I am not talking about Ukrainian officials, I am talking about you. You said many times in 2014 that you used the Armed Forces in Crimea to block Ukraine’s interference. Later you admitted though that the Russian army was in Crimea, something you had denied before.



Vladimir Putin:

Russian forces have always been stationed there. Look, I would like you to try to understand what was actually happening there, not just repeat these things mechanically. Russian forces have always been present in Crimea. Our military contingent was there.

One second, please, let me finish. Do you want to fire questions non-stop or hear my answers?

The first thing we did when the events in Ukraine began… What kind of events? Let me tell you now, and you will say yes or no. It was an unconstitutional armed coup and seizure of power. Yes or no? Will you tell me?



Armin Wolf:

I am not an expert on the Ukrainian Constitution.



Vladimir Putin:

You do not have to be an expert on Ukraine; you just need to be an expert on law, on the constitutional law of any country.



Armin Wolf:

I would not like to talk about Ukrainian politics, but about Russian politics. Allow me to phrase it differently. What should happen in order for Russia to return Crimea to Ukraine?



Vladimir Putin:

There are no such conditions and there can never be.

I will tell you why. You interrupted me again, but if you actually let me finish, you would understand what I mean. I will still do it.

When the unconstitutional armed coup took place in Ukraine, and power changed hands by force, our army was legally deployed in Crimea – under the agreement on our military base there. The first thing we did was increase our contingent to guard our Armed Forces, our military facilities, because we immediately saw that they were being threatened. That is where it all began. I told you with confidence that there was no one else there, but our Armed Forces were there legally under an agreement.

Let me finish, for God’s sake. (Speaks German.) Seien Sie so nett, lassen Sie mich etwas sagen. [Please be so kind as to let me say something.]



Armin Wolf:

I hate to interrupt you, but it is not about the Russian Black Sea Fleet. It was certainly based there. It is about those uniformed fighters without insignia. You said they were Crimeans, but they were not Crimeans; they were Russian servicemen.



Vladimir Putin:

I will get to this, please be patient. We have enough time.

Our servicemen had always been stationed there. I said: our servicemen were there, but they did not get involved. But, when unconstitutional actions in Ukraine began to unfold, when people in Crimea felt danger, when trains started bringing aggressive nationalists there, when buses and personal vehicles were blocked, people naturally wanted to protect themselves. And the first thing that occurred was to restore the rights that Ukraine itself had issued by granting Crimea autonomy. This is where it all began – with a procedure in the parliament to establish its independence from Ukraine.

Now, is this strictly prohibited by the United Nations Charter? No, it is not. The right of nations to self-determination is clearly stated there. And what did our Armed Forces do, even without expanding the contingent stipulated by the military base agreement? They ensured the independent free elections – an expression of the will of the people living in Crimea. By the way, the decision to hold this referendum was made by the Crimean parliament, which was elected in strict accordance with the Constitution and the laws of Ukraine before any such events. Therefore, nothing illegal …

Just a second.



Armin Wolf:

As far as I know, the parliament had no right to make this decision. But let us continue our conversation. The annexation of Crimea was the first time a country in Europe annexed part of another country against its will. This was really seen as a threat to neighbouring states, from Poland to the Baltic states, because it was assumed that minorities in these countries could also receive protection from Russian forces.



Vladimir Putin:

You know, if you do not like my answers, then do not ask me questions. But if you want to hear my opinion on the issues that I raise, then you need to have patience. I need to finish.

So, Crimea gained independence through the free will of the Crimeans expressed in an open referendum, not as a result of an invasion by Russian forces.

You are talking about annexation, but can we call a referendum held among all people living in the region annexation? Then Kosovo's self-determination was also annexation. Why do you not say Kosovo was annexed after the invasion of NATO troops? You do not say that. You are talking about the Kosovars’ right to self-determination.

The Kosovars did this by a parliamentary decision alone, while the Crimeans did it in a referendum, with an over 90 percent voter turnout – people living in Crimea came to vote for independence, and then for uniting with Russia, with about the same turnout – about 90 percent. Is this not democracy? What is it then? And what is democracy?



Armin Wolf:

Mr President, the referendum was still unconstitutional.



Vladimir Putin:

Why?



Armin Wolf:

It did not comply with the Ukrainian legislation, the Ukrainian Constitution. It was not a free referendum, Western observers say.

As for what you are saying about Kosovo, you have called Kosovo’s declaration of independence immoral and illegal, and have not recognised it yet. How can this be?



Vladimir Putin:

This is quite possible, and I will tell you why. Because during the political changes and military conflict in the former Yugoslavia, the UN Court issued a decision with regard to Kosovo (I can give you a quote), which explicitly said (read it and then read it out loud for your viewers and listeners): “The consent of the central authorities of the country is not mandatory in determining the issues of sovereignty.” This is how the UN Court commented on the Kosovo events, and now you are saying…



Armin Wolf:

There were some very clear conditions there that were not met in Crimea. This is what all international observers say.



Vladimir Putin:

What are they?



Armin Wolf:

There is no one who would recognise that vote, there is no one who would recognise the annexation.



Vladimir Putin:

Your arguments sound completely unconvincing, because no one has to recognise the will of citizens residing in a certain area. This fully complies with the UN Court decision. There is no other interpretation, but some people are trying to find ways to interpret this situation differently.



Armin Wolf:

May I take you at your word?



Vladimir Putin:

Try it.



Armin Wolf:

If so, then apparently people in Chechnya, Daghestan and Ingushetia could also organise a referendum and secede from Russia? Or organise an Islamic caliphate in your territory?



Vladimir Putin:

Indeed, Al-Qaeda extremists wanted to tear off this territory from the Russian Federation and form a caliphate from the Black Sea to the Caspian Sea. I do not think that Austria and Europe would have been happy about it, or anything good would have ever come of it. But the Chechen people made an entirely different decision during voting, and eventually signed an agreement with the Russian Federation following a discussion after all the bloodshed. The Russian Federation, too, had to take a very difficult decision to give Chechnya and many other regions a status that determines the high level of their autonomy within the Russian Federation. Ultimately, that was the decision of the Chechen people, and we are very happy about this and we stick to those agreements.

Incidentally, the same could be done in Ukraine in regard to Donbass. Why has this not been done yet? Then Ukraine would not have to limit the use of the languages ​​of foreign minorities, meaning not only Russian, but also Romanian, Hungarian and Polish. They do not seem to discuss this much in Europe, but it is a modern reality.



Armin Wolf:

The last question on Ukraine. Do you think the Ukrainian problem would be resolved if Ukraine declared itself a neutral country like Sweden or Austria and would not join NATO?



Vladimir Putin:

This is one of the problems, but not the only one. I have already mentioned the limited use of native languages ​​of ethnic minorities. Ukraine adopted the law on language, which was criticised, including in Europe, but it is in force. This largely complicates the situation in Ukraine. But I will remind you – and these are the things very few people know about – that the ideologists of Ukrainian independence, Ukrainian nationalists insisted on creating a sovereign Ukrainian state, independent from Russia, as early as in the 19th century. But many of them also spoke about the need to maintain good relations with Russia, the need to form an independent Ukrainian state on federative principles, and so on. As early as in the 19th century. Today, I would say it is one of the most sensitive internal issues in Ukraine. And Ukraine is doing it itself.

As for the neutral status, this issue is up to the Ukrainian people and the Ukrainian leadership. For us, for Russia, the important thing is that there would be no military facilities in Ukraine that could threaten our security, such as new missile defence systems aimed at thwarting our nuclear potential. This is indeed important for us, I am telling you frankly. But ultimately, this is the choice of the Ukrainian people and the country’s legitimately elected authorities.



Armin Wolf:

I would like to ask you a question about Syria before we move on to Russia. You say everyone is talking about the use of chemical weapons there, but the story was invented, since al-Assad and his army have no chemical weapons. Now there is proof that, although some of the attacks were indeed carried out by terrorists, al-Assad’s forces accounted for others, many of them in fact. Nevertheless, Russia is blocking the decision to extend the commission’s work. Why are you doing this? Why are you defending a regime that uses chemical weapons against its people?



Vladimir Putin:

You just said there is proof accepted by everyone that al-Assad used chemical weapons. Well, not by everyone. Our experts tell it differently. For example, the case that was the reason for missile strikes against Syria after the alleged chemical attack in the city of Douma.

Look. The Syrian troops liberated that area. We immediately suggested to our partners that the OPCW commission go there, it is a UN unit, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. They headed for Syria, and reached a neighbouring country, Lebanon I think. But, instead of waiting one or two days and allowing the commission to work on the site, a missile attack was made on Syria.

Tell me, please: is this the best way to ensure the objectivity of what happened there? I do not think so. I think it was an attempt to create conditions that would make it impossible to investigate thoroughly. That is what it was.

After that, we found people there who admitted to having participated in staging the chemical attack. If you did not see it, it would be very useful for objectivity, so that your viewers could have their own opinion on this matter.

We found children and their parents who were drenched in water and who said they did not understand what was happening. We brought them to The Hague to show everyone. Nobody wanted to listen to them. And after that you tell me: “Everyone recognises the use of chemical weapons.” Not everyone. We believe it is fake news, used as a pretext for the missile attack, which is a violation of international law. That was aggression against a sovereign state. Who mandated an attack on a sovereign state? The UN Security Council? No. So, what was that? Aggression.



Armin Wolf:

Mr President, we should not talk about Douma, because the investigation is still underway there, but the international commission proved that before that, the Syrian regime had used chemical weapons often enough. And after that you wrapped this commission up in the UN.



Vladimir Putin:

Because its work is being hindered. Missile attacks were carried out days before it was to start working in Douma. What was that for? This is the first point.

Second. The case should be investigated objectively, and we will recognise it.

You just said there is proof that militants used chemical substances and chemical weapons. Who punished them? Tell me.



Armin Wolf:

That same commission …



Vladimir Putin:

No, I am asking you, who punished them? Have they received any punishment? Did the coalition attack them immediately? I did not see anything like this.



Armin Wolf:

Mr President, I am being told that we are running out of time. I would like to talk about Russia since there is very little time left.



Vladimir Putin:

Sure.



Armin Wolf:

During the election race in 2012, you promised that you will significantly improve the quality of life in Russia by 2020. However, in the subsequent years, economic growth has remained rather weak, under two percent. Wages have gone down in the past two years and the number of people below the poverty line has increased compared to 2012. Are you really just looking for foreign policy challenges to justify domestic problems?



Vladimir Putin:

I want everybody who thinks like that to calm down. Since 2012, Russia has been through some very difficult challenges in the economy. And that was not only related to so-called sanctions or restrictions. It was primarily due to a drastic drop in the prices of our traditional export products. The prices dropped by half. That affected the budget revenue and, therefore, people’s income. But we managed to do the main thing – and our colleagues, including IMF senior officials, acknowledged that just recently at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum. We achieved the main thing, which is to preserve and strengthen the macroeconomic stability in the country.

Indeed, wages have sagged a bit along with people’s incomes but if you look back to the beginning of our journey, the number of people below the poverty line is now half the number in 2000. Half that number. Between 2012 and 2016 and in 2017 the figure ticked upward but it is levelling out now.

The inflation rate was 12.5 percent, almost 13 percent, and now it is the lowest in modern Russian history – 2,5%. Our gold and foreign currency reserves are growing. After the collapse I mentioned, stable economic growth began to show. Yes, it is modest at the moment (1.5 percent) but fixed investment is growing at 4.4 percent, which guarantees further economic growth. Foreign direct investment has almost doubled. As I said, both the Central Bank gold and foreign currency reserves and the Government reserves are growing. We have created great conditions for the next steps on economic development, which we will definitely take.







Armin Wolf:

You have been President or Prime Minister for 18 years. Some people say that you have turned a country that was on its way to democracy into an authoritarian system, that you are a ‘tsar’ here. Is it true?



Vladimir Putin:

No, it is not true. It is false and completely detached from reality because Russia is a democracy and we all live under the Constitution. And our Constitution says (just like the Austrian Constitution, I think) that the President can serve no more than two consecutive terms. That is why after two legitimate terms I left office, I did not try to change the Constitution and went on to serve in another role, as Prime Minister of the Russian Federation. After that, as you know, I came back in 2012, ran for president and won the election. One presidential term in Russia is six years – also like in Austria, I think.

The voter turnout in the recent election was almost 70 percent. This is almost half of all Russian citizens. International observers had no serious criticism as to how the election was organised or regarding the election results. Therefore, there is no doubt that democracy has taken hold in Russia. It is in our interests that the country follows a democratic path of development and it will.

The same goes for other elections, municipal and regional. Hundreds of elections take place across the country and unfailingly bring success to the political forces that win people’s trust.



Armin Wolf:

However, the most prominent opposition leader in Russia, blogger Alexei Navalny, could not run for president this time. You still have never said his name in public, Alexei Navalny, even once. Why?



Vladimir Putin:

We have many rebels here, just like in your country and the United States.

In my conversation with your colleague I already mentioned that there was a movement in the US called Occupy Wall Street. Where are they now? Gone.

Are there not also plenty of people in Europe and Austria who promote extreme views and try to manipulate the difficulties and problems in society? Specifically, problems related to corruption.

In Ukraine, for example, which we discussed, one of the opposition’s slogans when it came to power was fighting corruption. And what is happening there now corruption-wise? What does Europe say about corruption in Ukraine? Everybody is criticising the Ukrainian leadership for not doing enough in that area. Why do you think that we… One moment…



Armin Wolf:

Why will you not say his name publicly?



Vladimir Putin:

You are not letting me finish, you are being so impatient. We do not want to deal with another Saakashvili, the former Georgian president. We do not want any second, third or fourth edition of Saakashvili on our political scene. Do you like this kind of personas, a poor excuse for a politician?

Here in Russia, we need people with a positive agenda who understand our problems deeply rather than just recite them, and we have plenty of problems just like Austria or any other country. It is easy to pick a problem and start spinning it and position yourself as the one with the solution. But without a positive starting point and ideas about how to solve problems or deal with an issue, people will not respond.

Believe me, Russian voters are plenty sophisticated. They do not just pay attention to attractive slogans. They want to see the solutions you are proposing. And if no solution is proposed the candidate will not get noticed. What is the question about? If a person…



Armin Wolf:

But voters did not even have a chance to get a look at this candidate because he could not run.



Vladimir Putin:

Voters can get a look at anyone because the internet is free. Nobody blocked him. Our mass media is free. People are free to speak out and make a name for themselves as representatives of many political movements do. If a person gains stature in the eyes of voters, he or she becomes a figure for the country’s leaders to engage in a dialogue with. But if a political organisation has the trust of one, two, three percent of people or just hundredths of a percent, then what is there to talk about? Then we get a Saakashvili. And we do not need clowns.



Armin Wolf:

I see.

In the 2013 election in Moscow, Navalny got 27 percent.



Vladimir Putin:

How many do you think voted for yours truly in Moscow in the recent election? Not for Moscow Mayor but for President? How many do you think? Look into it.



Armin Wolf:

I would guess more than 27 percent. It is just that Navalny could not really run.



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, way more, for which I am very grateful to Muscovites. Because Moscow voters are very sophisticated. And we are not talking about a mayoral election. We are talking about a presidential election.



Armin Wolf:

By the end of this presidential term you will be over 70 years old.



Vladimir Putin:

I hope. (Laughter.)



Armin Wolf:

And you will have been in power for over 20 years. As such, you will not be able to run again according to the Constitution. After this presidential term, will you leave politics or stay in power as Prime Minister?



Vladimir Putin:

Which would you prefer?



Armin Wolf:

It does not matter at all. I am interested in what you prefer.



Vladimir Putin:

My presidential term has just begun. I am only at the beginning of this journey so let’s not jump ahead. I have never violated the Constitution of my country and I am not going to. A lot depends on the kind of job we do (and by “we” I mean myself and my team) and what results we can achieve. But you are right, I have been in public administration, government service, for quite a long time and I need to make a decision on what I am going to do when the current term ends.



Armin Wolf:

People are speculating that a referendum will be held to make you, like Xi Jinping in China, president for life. Is it possible in Russia?



Vladimir Putin:

I do not comment on speculation. I think it is beneath the President of the Russian Federation.



Armin Wolf:

Then, my last question, perhaps a little unusual. There are many photos of you half-naked, which is rather unusual for a head of state. These photos were not taken by paparazzi or tourists. They were published by the Kremlin. What is the story behind these photos?



Vladimir Putin:

You said ‘half-naked’ not ‘naked,’ thank God. When I am on vacation I see no need to hide behind the bushes, and there is nothing wrong with that.



Armin Wolf:

Mr President, you are known to be fluent in German. You have already said a few words. Perhaps, as we finish this conversation and in light of your upcoming visit to Austria, you could say something to our audience in German?



Vladimir Putin:

Thank you for your attention.

(In German.) Vielen Dank für Ihre Aufmerksamkeit. [Thank you for your attention.]




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57675






Vladimir Putin arrived in Austria



The President of Russia has arrived in the Republic of Austria on a working visit. He will hold talks with Federal President of Austria Alexander Van der Bellen and Federal Chancellor Sebastian Kurz.



June 5, 2018 - 14:45 - Vienna







The talks will cover Russian-Austrian relations in various spheres and key international issues.

The President will also attend a meeting with Russian and Austrian business leaders, who will speak about mutually beneficial trade and economic cooperation, in particular the celebration this year of the 50th anniversary of a large-scale energy project to deliver Soviet natural gas to Europe.







Before going to Austria, Vladimir Putin gave an interview to the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation (ORF).




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57677






Talks with President of Austria Alexander van der Bellen



Vladimir Putin held talks with Federal President of the Republic of Austria Alexander van der Bellen in Vienna. The two presidents met in the Hofburg Palace in the centre of the Austrian capital.



June 5, 2018 - 17:30 - Vienna







The Russian-Austrian consultations were also attended by Aide to the Russian President Yury Ushakov and Adviser to the Federal President of Austria for European and International Affairs Bettina Kirnbauer.

Later, the talks between Vladimir Putin and Alexander van der Bellen continued with participation of the Russian and Austrian delegations.

Following the meeting, Vladimir Putin and Alexander Van der Bellen made statements for the press and answered journalists’ questions.








Federal President of the Republic of Austria Alexander Van der Bellen (retranslated):

Mr President,

I am very happy to welcome you here in Vienna. I am especially pleased that President Putin made one of the first foreign trips after his election to Austria, to Vienna.

This was my first meeting with you as the Federal President but many years ago I met with you in the Austrian Parliament. I think I can say that together we found a good foundation for dialogue.

Good relations with Russia are important for me not only in the context of European policy but also for personal reasons. Russia played an important role in my family history – my parents spoke Russian with each other and I literally grew up on Russian literature although today this is no more than marginalia.

Russia and Austria have traditionally maintained very good relations that have a centuries-long history. These relations are not only political but also embrace such areas as culture, science, research, and music. For instance, 2018 is the Year of Music. Several days ago Schoenbrunn Palace hosted a wonderful concert in which Anna Netrebko and other performers took part.

One more important example of our cooperation is the joint commission on historical issues that is making a major contribution to facilitating understanding between our countries. And the importance of this commission should not be underrated. Usually or rather very often it is historians that influence the perception of different events by citizens of this or other country. For example, the French certainly write about Napoleon in a somewhat different way than Austrians or Russians.

We are also striving to promote understanding on the ground floor, so to speak – by developing direct contacts between ordinary citizens of our countries. This is why we discussed today the formation of an additional platform for dialogue at the civil society level. The first event opening this dialogue will take place today in Sochi. Ms Kneissl is taking part in its preparation on our behalf.

Of course, Russia is a very important market, including for Austria. Our direct investment in Russia is about seven billion euros, and Russian investment is 3–4 times larger.

Yesterday we marked a special anniversary: 50 years since the agreement on gas supplies from Russia to Austria was signed. The agreement was signed in 1968, between the Soviet Union and Austria back then. This means that Gazprom and OMV have been working together for 50 years. I believe this cooperation over the course of several decades already is mutually beneficial.

Soon, in less than a month, Austria will take over the Presidency of the EU Council. Unfortunately, I have to say that we live in a time when the tensions around the world are constantly growing. Austria has always tried to contribute to de-escalation, and we will continue to do so in the future.

Unfortunately, the issue of sanctions is very acute today, and, concerning foreign policy, Austria acts in concert with the other countries of the European Union, and will continue to act in concert with them. But at the same time dialogue with Russia has always been extremely important, and not just for Austria, but for the entire European Union.

I always get somewhat confused when I hear people say “Russia and Europe,” because Russia (at least a large part of it) is, of course, part of Europe and not some “foreign element.” We all know well that we can achieve peace in Europe only together with Russia, and a number of regional and global problems can only be resolved with Russia’s involvement.

President Putin and I have discussed various foreign policy issues, such as developments in the “triangle” between the US, Iran and Europe, if you will. I will not take much of your time: President Putin is a much more interesting figure for you than I am.

I am pleased to welcome the entire high-level Russian delegation here in Vienna. Tonight we will perhaps meet once again at the Art History Museum where a very interesting exhibition, Old Masters from the Hermitage, featuring a number of exhibits provided by the Hermitage Museum, will open.

This means that President Putin is not our only guest tonight: the Hermitage will be here for several weeks and months on behalf of the entire Russian nation.

Thank you very much.







President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen,

First of all, I want to thank President Van der Bellen for the invitation to visit Austria.

The President expressed his determination to expand the entire scope of bilateral relations between Russia and Austria, which I fully support.

We have very good preconditions for that. Russia-Austria relations are based on a tradition of partnership and mutual benefit. We maintain regular contacts at the top level as well as between the ministries, agencies and parliaments of the two countries, between our businesses, representatives of culture, science, education and youth.

Our mutual trade is growing. Russia-Austria trade turnover grew by 40.5 percent in 2017. The growth rate reached almost 100 percent in the first quarter of this year.

One of the key areas of our bilateral cooperation is energy. Our visit marks the 50th anniversary of the first contract to supply natural gas to Austria from the Soviet Union. Since then, we have exported over 200 billion cubic metres of natural gas to the Austrian market.

Austria has become one of the major – perhaps, one of the most important – transit hubs for Russian gas in Western Europe and plays an important role in ensuring the energy security of the entire European continent.

Overall, this anniversary symbolises the mutually beneficial and time-tested partnership which both our countries intend to continue strengthening.

Russia’s Austrian partners have supported our plans to increase gas supply to European consumers, including as part of Nord Stream 2 and other energy and infrastructure projects. We will by all means continue to discuss this important topic with the Federal Chancellor of Austria.

We discussed with Mr Van der Bellen cultural and humanitarian ties that have been rapidly developing in the past few years. We noted that holding cross events has become regular practice.

The Russia-Austria Year of Tourism was a success in 2017. In 2018 the Year of Music and Cultural Routes is being held. Cross years of youth exchanges, literature and theatre are planned for 2019 and 2020. As the President just said, today we will open the exhibition Old Masters from the Hermitage in the Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna.

The Federal President and I have agreed to facilitate the implementation of plans on creating a Russia-Austria public forum, the Sochi Dialogue.

We are satisfied with the joint work of Russian and Austrian historians. As members of the relevant Russia-Austria commission, they are making a tangible contribution to the unbiased study of our past and to resisting attempts to revise some complicated periods of European history.

I would like to express special gratitude to the government and people of Austria for the care they show for the burial sites of Soviet soldiers who liberated your country from Nazism.

Naturally, during the talks we exchanged views on a number of international and regional issues and talked about the developments in Ukraine and Syria.

In conclusion, I would like to thank Federal President of Austria Alexander Van der Bellen for a constructive and productive meeting that, I am sure, will facilitate progress in the full range of bilateral ties.

We would be happy to see the President in Russia at any time at his convenience.

Thank you very much.







Question:

A question for both presidents. It has been emphasised that Russia and Austria are long-time reliable partners, and large mutual investors. You just mentioned the numbers – many billions of dollars, and you talked about a number of projects. Taking into consideration the current international situation, do you think there is potential for further growth in our economic relations, and if so, which areas are most likely to see it?



Alexander Van der Bellen (retranslated):

There is still quite a bit of potential. Russia is an immense market with 140 million people. And the way oil and energy prices are progressing, this is also a good benchmark.

In particular, I was impressed: after a setback, if I can put it this way, that trade and direct investment have again grown in the past two years. And the growth was noted in both countries, especially in direct investment.



Vladimir Putin:

Indeed, our relations are progressing very well, steadily. In fact, Russia is the second largest investor in Austria, I think, after the Federal Republic of Germany. Russia has invested almost $25 billion in the Austrian economy. Our Austrian partners have invested almost four billion. Over 500 Austrian companies have a presence in the Russian market.

Mr President said that it is a large market with over 140 million people (146 million). But if we consider the Eurasian Economic Union, it has 170 million people, including Kazakhstan, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan and Armenia. It is indeed a large, broad market, and a fast growing one at that. As I have said, our trade is growing at a very good rate.

I am not talking about energy. This is obvious. Thanks to cooperation with the Soviet Union and then with Russia, Austria has become the common European energy hub, which continues to develop very dynamically. In this sense, the role of the Austrian Republic in Europe’s energy industry is significant, large, and it will only increase.

But we are not limiting ourselves to these areas. We have good prospects in engineering, timber processing, transport and logistics in general. We have adopted a plan on modernising the economy. This includes several fields (up to 20), some of them have already been completed, others are in progress, as they say, and are being implemented.

We have very good prospects. I am confident that they will be realised, and I would very much like to see our work provide an impetus to fulfilling these joint plans.







Question (retranslated):

I have a question for Mr Putin.

Mr President, in your conversation with President Alexander Van der Bellen, and the forthcoming conversation with Federal Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, would you like them to create a good atmosphere for lifting the EU sanctions?



Vladimir Putin:

Sanctions, any politically motivated restrictions, protectionism – these are all the same thing. They are all ways of resolving political issues and are ultimately not effective at achieving the desired effect. They are harmful for everyone involved –those that initiate them, and those against whom they are used.

I can assure you that Russia has overcome the difficulties linked with these external restrictions. This was not easy for us a few years ago, because at that time we faced a considerable (double) reduction in the prices of our traditional exports. Nevertheless, we have not only preserved macroeconomic stability but also consolidated it.

As you may know, we reduced inflation to a record low in the history of modern Russia – 2.5 percent. We have a minimal unemployment rate – it has already dropped below 5 percent. Our gold and currency reserves are growing.

Our positive foreign trade balance is about $130 billion. Investment in basic capital is growing at the accelerated pace of 4.4 percent. We have reached economic growth – it is very modest so far, but stable.

This is why I say that sanctions are bad both for those that initiate them and those they are against. This is why I think everyone is interested in cancelling them. We are, too.

We realise full well that each EU country finds it difficult to talk about this on an individual basis. I will not talk about the reasons – you know them. But whatever is happening in this area does not prevent us from developing relations with the Republic of Austria. And we will do everything we can to continue developing them in the future and to carry out the plans I have talked about.







Question:

My question is primarily for Mr Federal President of Austria concerning natural gas cooperation. Russia has been a reliable supplier of gas to Austria for 50 years. A new agreement is to be signed until 2040.

Meanwhile, Russia was often accused in the past years of using gas as a political weapon. I have the following question: has Austria experienced any external pressure in this area?



Alexander Van der Bellen:

The fact is that not only Austria but the whole European Union has been importing gas from Russia and the former Soviet Union. Our experience has been very good.

Recently there has been, let us say, a reproach from some US politicians that EU dependence on Russia in this area is too great. Meanwhile, the fact that US liquefied natural gas is two or three times more expensive than Russian gas is overlooked.

Under such circumstances, there is little sense, from a purely economic view, to replace Russian gas with American LNG. And under such circumstances, I believe that future cooperation between Gazprom and OMV rests on a very solid foundation.







Question (retranslated):

I have a question to both presidents. There is a grave crisis between the EU and Russia, and there is an impression that Russia is facing the problem of trust. What are you going to do to overcome this? And what will Austria do to stop this problem, to get rid of it?



Vladimir Putin:

You mentioned the problem of trust and said that Russia has it. I want to disappoint you: I do not think so. I do not think we have any problem with trust. It is a problem for those who want the situation in Russia to be like that.

We are open and ready to cooperation, we had until recently a whole set of mechanisms and tools of cooperation with Europe you referred to and with united Europe. We used to have dialogue in 20 different areas in the economy, and all that has been practically wrapped up now, and through no fault of ours.

We are not the initiators of curbing this interaction, and we are open and ready for joint work. Slowly, gradually this work is reviving, we can see that. We have consultations and dialogue with Brussels officials in a number of areas, and in my view they are proceeding very constructively, although not quite smoothly. But let me reiterate, not only Russia but also our European friends are interested in restoring full-scale work.



Alexander Van der Bellen (retranslated):

I do not have anything to add to that. The issue of trust turns up in politics every now and again. Therefore, there is nothing unusual here; even my personality, in retrospect, may arouse a veracity issue.

I do not see any specific problem regarding Russia but I think it is a matter of correct interpretation of statements or actions. It is quite normal, business as usual, as they say. This is normal working mode. I do not see any crisis of confidence.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57678






Talks with Federal Chancellor of Austria Sebastian Kurz



Vladimir Putin held talks with Federal Chancellor of the Republic of Austria Sebastian Kurz.



June 5, 2018 - 18:30 - Vienna







The meeting was attended by Aide to the Russian President Yury Ushakov and Vice Chancellor of Austria Heinz-Christian Strache.

Following the consultations, a number of bilateral documents were signed in the presence of the Russian President and the Austrian Federal Chancellor. The documents signed include a protocol on the avoidance of double taxation of income and capital as well as memorandums of cooperation in innovation and forestry, two agreements between Russian regions and Austrian companies, and the Agreement on Gas Supplies until 2040 between Gazprom Export and OMV Gas Marketing & Trading GmbH.

After that, Vladimir Putin and Sebastian Kurz made press statements.

Earlier in the day, the President of Russia held talks with Federal President of Austria Alexander Van der Bellen.








Federal Chancellor of the Republic of Austria Sebastian Kurz (retranslated):

(In Russian.) Welcome!

Mr Federal President of Austria and Mr President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, ladies and gentlemen, colleagues from the Government, Mr Vice Chancellor and, first of all, Mr President.

Please allow me to cordially welcome you in Austria and sincerely thank you for choosing Austria for your first visit to the European Union after your re-election.

Welcome to Austria!







It is my impression that relations between Austria and Russia have been progressing very well for a long time. We maintained cooperation even in difficult times. Apart from good political cooperation we have very strong economic cooperation.

We are glad that our trade has again increased to 5 billion euros and that Austrian companies have already invested 7 billion euros in Russia. This year we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of gas supplies from Russian to Austria owing to cooperation between Gazprom and OMV. This cooperation was always sustained even in trying times.

Today we signed a memorandum on cooperation in forestry and an agreement for the avoidance of double taxation so as to support our cooperation. Last but not the least, tourism from Russia to Austria is also developing on a large scale. We have recorded 2.1 million overnight stays in Austria.







Observance of human rights is very important for us. Today, we had an opportunity to talk about international issues – how Russia as a superpower is playing a big role in Syria and eastern Ukraine and bears a large responsibility. And we hope Russia will help people finally experience what they have been looking forward to so much – peace.

We spoke today about relations between Russia and Austria. As you know, Austria is an active EU member. On July 1, we will take over the Presidency of the EU Council and will actively participate in the formation of the EU position and EU decisions, including those on sanctions. At the same time we hope that owing to more intensive dialogue the EU and Russia will make progress in their relations.

In addition, we hope that progress will also be achieved in eastern Ukraine and that the Minsk agreements will be implemented. This is the scenario we want for our continent. We are deeply convinced that solely through cooperation and joint actions we can make further progress in relations between the two sides.







Mutual benefit is better than mutual loss. This is why we will continue working to maintain our traditionally good bilateral ties and support them more actively. We will continue working to sustain our good relations with Russia, the UN and the OSCE. We will be making our contribution to finding a decent solution for people that does not rely solely on military force.

Please allow me to thank you again for your visit to Austria, and for the good conversation with the Federal President, the Vice Chancellor and me. I am already looking forward to the exchanges and conversations between representatives of our economies.







President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Federal Chancellor, ladies and gentlemen,

To begin with, I would like to thank the Austrian hosts for the warm welcome and hospitality. Mr Sebastian Kurz and I are already meeting for the second time this year. As in February in Moscow, our talks took place in a constructive and friendly atmosphere and reaffirmed the partner-like, mutually beneficial character of Russia-Austria cooperation.

This is shown by the substantial growth of trade between our countries – last year it went up by 40.5 percent and continues to grow. It doubled in the first quarter of this year. Our visit is timed to the 50th anniversary of the first contract on natural gas supplies from the Soviet Union. During this half century our country has been reliably supplying Austrian consumers with energy resources. Moreover, they are delivered to the markets of other European countries via Austrian territory. And so it is no exaggeration to say that Russia and Austria are jointly making a substantial contribution to the energy security of the whole of Europe.







We are working together to expand energy cooperation. Today our leading energy companies – OMV and Gazprom – signed an agreement on gas supplies until 2040.

The Nord Stream 2 project continues to be carried out. The Federal Chancellor confirmed that the Austrian leaders are positive about it as a strictly economic project.







During the talks, we addressed issues related to increasing mutual investments in industrial and technological cooperation. Russian capital investments, as I already said after the meeting with the President, are nearing $24 billion, while the figure for Austria is approaching four billion.

The Declaration on Partnership for Modernisation, adopted in 2011, is being implemented. As part of it, 28 joint initiatives totalling almost three billion euros are being implemented.







I would like to highlight the major infrastructure project to build a wide-gauge railway line from Kosice in Slovakia to Vienna. It is still in the stage of expert study, but it is now clear that in case of its implementation, cargo transportation between Europe and Asia via the Trans-Siberian Railway will increase significantly, while costs for end users will be reduced.

Of course, we also exchanged views on a number of issues on the international and regional agenda. And we talked about developments in Ukraine. I informed the Federal Chancellor about how Russia sees further possibilities for settlement in Donbass. It is significant that both Russia and Austria are in favour of full and rigorous compliance by all parties to the conflict with the Minsk agreements.

We discussed the Syrian crisis. We note the readiness of Austria to join humanitarian actions in support of the population of Syria. I have already said it many times, and I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate once again: if Europe wants the flow of migrants to Europe, including from this region – from Syria, from neighbouring countries – to decrease, it is necessary to help people to return to their homes, to help them to rebuild their lives in their own country.







In conclusion, I would like to thank the Federal Chancellor for useful and informative talks. Our joint programme will be continued. There are two more important events to be held, also timed to the 50th anniversary of the first gas contract.

We will meet with representatives of the business community, and then we will attend the opening of the exhibition, Old Masters from the Hermitage, at the Vienna Art History Museum.

I would like to thank you all, ladies and gentlemen, for your attention to our work.

Thank you very much.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57680






Wreath-laying ceremony at the monument to Soviet liberators



Vladimir Putin laid a wreath at the monument to Soviet Army soldiers who gave their lives to free Austria from Nazism.



June 5, 2018 - 20:15



















Austria’s Foreign Minister and representatives of the Austrian Armed Forces took part in the ceremony on Schwarzenbergplatz.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57681






Meeting with Russian and Austrian business leaders



Vladimir Putin attended a meeting of the Russian-Austrian Business Council devoted to the 50th anniversary of gas supplies from Russia to Austria.



June 5, 2018 - 21:25 - Vienna








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Federal Chancellor told me before we came here that he would try to be concise so that I would have more time. I will use this generous offer, but I will try not to tire you too much.

First of all, I would like to express my gratitude to Mr Federal Chancellor and the President of the Republic of Austria for inviting me here.







Ladies and gentlemen, I congratulate you on the 50th anniversary of energy, gas cooperation between our countries.

The leading entrepreneurs, financiers and investors from Russia and Austria are attending this meeting. You share a desire to promote mutually beneficial economic cooperation, and you are implementing joint projects in widely different areas, as we have said more than once today.

Austria has always been a reliable partner of Russia. Our countries maintained close contacts for centuries, even in the most difficult periods in their history such as the Cold War.







It is noteworthy that Austria was the first Western country to sign a long-term agreement on Soviet gas deliveries to Europe 50 years ago, in June 1968.

Throughout the subsequent decades, we ensured reliable and uninterrupted energy supplies to Austria. We have delivered over 200 billion cubic metres of gas to our Austrian partners. Last year, Russian gas deliveries to Austria increased by 50 percent to more than 9 billion cubic metres.







Austria is one of the largest transit hubs in Europe, through which Russian gas is delivered to consumers in other European countries. Therefore, the energy security of the European continent is largely ensured by the close energy cooperation between our countries.

We are interested in deepening and expanding our close cooperation. A notable fact in this context is a new agreement on long-term Russian gas deliveries through 2040, which Gazprom and OMV have signed today.

Moreover, Gazprom and OMV are ready to jointly implement the project to build the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline. It will reduce transit risks and deliver an additional 55 billion cubic metres of environmentally friendly and affordable fuel to the European economy.







Russian and Austrian businesses are actively interacting in other spheres as well. Last year, our bilateral trade increased by over 40 percent to reach $4 billion.

Russia is the second largest investor in the Austrian economy. Russian investment in Austria has reached nearly $24 billion, and Austrian investment in Russia is approaching $5 billion.

Over 1,200 Austrian companies are operating in Russia and there are some 500 Russian-Austrian joint ventures. Most of them are working in the real economy, or more precisely, in construction, industry and high technology.







We appreciate the active involvement of Austrian business in the recent St Petersburg International Economic Forum. The implementation of the bilateral commercial contracts that were signed during the Forum will create new companies and high-paying jobs both in Russia and in the Republic of Austria.

We certainly welcome and support such mutually beneficial projects. For our part, we will continue to do our best to ensure that international, including Austrian businesses feel comfortable in the Russian market.

We will continue our consistent efforts to liberalise business laws, reduce the administrative and tax burden on businesses and improve our financial and banking systems. We are resolved to modernise our infrastructure and social sectors.







I would like to point out the most positive trends in the Russian economy. Last year, our GDP growth was stable, if moderate, of 1.5 percent, and consumer demand increased by 3.4 percent.

Our industrial and agricultural sectors grew by 1.8 percent and 2.6 percent, respectively. We are keeping inflation at a record low level of 2.5 percent. Unemployment has decreased to below 5 percent.

Our trade surplus is growing. It exceeded $130 billion in 2017, growing by 25 percent compared to the year before.

The floating ruble rate maintains the stability of the national currency. Russia is among the world’s leaders in terms of gold and currency reserves. Our sovereign debt is among the smallest in the world – below 20 percent.

Thanks to a responsible budgetary policy, we have reduced the federal budget deficit to 1.5 percent of the GDP and intend to report a budget surplus of 0.5 percent.

(Speaks in German, retranslated) Friends, our cooperation is very good indeed. But it can be much, much better. We can do it, we must do it, and we will do it, but this depends on you.

Thank you very much.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57682






Visit to Vienna Art History Museum



Vladimir Putin and President of Austria Alexander Van der Bellen visited the Vienna Art History Museum (Kunsthistorisches Museum).



June 5, 2018 - 22:45 - Vienna







The presidents opened and toured the exhibition Old Masters from the Hermitage. The President of Russia also made an entry in the distinguished visitors' book.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Federal President, Mr Federal Chancellor, friends,

We are opening a unique exhibition of select masterpieces from two of the world’s greatest museums. This joint project of the State Hermitage Museum and the Vienna Art History Museum became reality with the support of the Russian company Gazprom, as Mr President has already said, and Austria’s OMV. This is a kind of gift to mark the anniversary of energy cooperation between the two countries.

I think the exhibition has an extraordinary and unique concept. It is a one-of-a-kind experiment. The Hermitage and the Vienna Art History Museum selected 14 paintings each by the most prominent masters of the 16th and 17th centuries.







These paintings are from the collections that used to belong to the Austrian and Russian imperial families. The masterpieces by Rembrandt, van Dyck, Rubens and other great artists were brought together in meaningful duos. I do not recall seeing anything like this before. I think this is the first project of this kind.

This could only be achieved by two of the world’s most outstanding museums that have big enough collections to pair these works in this way. Each duo is united by either the creator or a similar story or composition. I am certain that this project will be very popular with art lovers.







I would like to emphasise that during today’s meetings with Mr President and Mr Federal Chancellor we praised the current level of our countries’ interaction in culture and identified our short-term plans, including large-scale humanitarian events.

We are going to follow-up the Cross Year of Tourism, which has just come to a close, with the Year of Music in 2018, whereas 2019 will be marked by youth exchanges.







This exhibition will also be presented in St Petersburg in autumn. I am confident that alongside other joint cultural projects, it will further contribute to Russian-Austrian cooperation, and will serve to enhance friendship between our countries.

In conclusion, because this is indeed my last public address, I would like to sincerely thank Mr Federal Chancellor and Mr President for the truly friendly, very open business atmosphere they created during our joint work today.

I am sure that such commitment to interaction cannot but have good, positive and far-reaching consequences for our nations in all cooperation areas, including economic cooperation.







Events such as this one today will undoubtedly create the necessary atmosphere. It was very interesting for me to see the museum itself. I thought the Hermitage has no rivals in the world; however, I am now aware that there are rivals, and it is indeed a special element of pan-European cooperation. Mr Schroeder can take delight in the fact that in addition to the Dresden Opera, Gottfried Semper also built this wonderful, magnificent building especially for the museum.

Thank you very much for today’s event. I would like to thank the organisers of the exhibition and wish its visitors enjoyable impressions and all the very best.

Thank you for your attention.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57683
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 10th, 2018 #846
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Meeting with Commissioner for Children’s Rights Anna Kuznetsova



Anna Kuznetsova presented an annual report on the performance of commissioners for children’s rights.



June 4, 2018 - 13:30 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

You are here to present an annual report, right? Go ahead, please.



Commissioner for Children’s Rights Anna Kuznetsova:

Yes, I am. Good afternoon, Mr President.

I am glad to have this opportunity to update you on our main achievements and, of course, our problems as an institution of commissioners for children’s rights.

But first I would like to offer our greetings on the recent International Children’s Day and to present you with these letters to soldiers. This is children’s art made for the current, past and even future soldiers. We send them to military units. This year the Defence Ministry helped us send them to Syria.



Vladimir Putin:

Very good, thank you.



Anna Kuznetsova:

Mr President, children’s rights commissioners have recently met for a regular conference, during which we implemented a project called Childhood Vector 2018. This project is aimed at choosing the best childhood practices.

It was the first time we held this contest to choose the 10 best projects for large families, adoptive families and children with special needs. We are working in many spheres, including mentorship. We received over 1,000 projects from many regions and selected the best ones. Victory went to Tyumen’s one-stop shop assistance project.

And lastly, I want to present our report on the performance of children’s rights commissioners last year. It covers the main problems and the main issues we deal with.

This is what I would like to say. Overall, the trend has not changed, meaning that the majority of requests we receive have to do with property issues, as well as family relations and parent-child relations. But the alarming part is that the number of requests that concern education has grown by 83 percent. A possible reason is increased attention to our education system.

I certainly agree that we must not only provide education to our children but also offer them an opportunity to develop and to grow up as individuals. We must do more than just provide them with a certain amount of knowledge. We must also bring them up as future parents. We are closely working with the Education Ministry in this respect.







Vladimir Putin:

What exactly worries people in education?



Anna Kuznetsova:

Several problems are of concern, including the quality of education, education for children with special needs, the accessibility and quality of education, and, of course, the issue of character building.

We discussed these problems with various agencies, and the Federal Service for Supervision in Education and Science (Rosobrnadzor) proposed at the commissioners’ conference that we create a special group that will assess the quality of character building at school. We have learned to gauge the amount and quality of education, and we are doing this accurately and in great detail. We now need to pay especially close attention to character building.

We have prepared a plan of events on security, which includes the issue of character building. I am referring to information and education security for children.



Vladimir Putin:

Do you need my assistance, or have you coordinated all matters with the [Education] Ministry?



Anna Kuznetsova:

We are coordinating it with them within the education system. Some questions have been settled, while others still need to be coordinated.



Vladimir Putin:

Regarding the plan you have mentioned, is it a draft you need to approve yet?



Anna Kuznetsova:

We have coordinated some of the questions with the concerned agencies, but there are also outstanding matters that still need to be coordinated.

Mr President, I would like to thank you for the executive orders you signed in May. We welcomed them wholeheartedly, because many of them concern the future and hence children. In this context, I would like to say that there are different criteria for assessing the performance of regional leaders. In the first year of the Decade of Childhood, which has begun under one of these executive orders, we would like to have more indicators for evaluating the quality of children’s policy.

Therefore, we have drafted proposals suggesting the possibility of adding the childhood component to the personal performance criteria of the regional leaders. This subject should be given prominence alongside the regions’ economic and investment appeal.

I believe that if our proposals are supported, the issue of childhood will be not only important to us as parents but will also play an increased role in regional politics.







Vladimir Putin:

I will instruct the Presidential Executive Office and the Government to work on this issue so that it can be implemented.



Anna Kuznetsova:

Thank you, Mr President.

I would like to focus on another important issue that is, in fact, very acute and known to everyone: housing for orphans to live. I must mention it, because recently the housing queue has been constantly increasing.



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, it has.


(Ms Kuznetsova spoke in detail about housing for orphans; in particular, she proposed transferring this responsibility from the Education Ministry to a relevant agency such as the Construction Ministry.)


Anna Kuznetsova:

Another issue I have to raise is about children with developmental delays and orphan diseases. There are over 8,000 such children in Russia. Unfortunately, the problem with providing the necessary medicines is very acute today. Only 30 Russian regions have completely met the demand for medicines for children with orphan or rare diseases. The deficit is over eight billion rubles today.

Mr President, we have carefully studied many issues related to this. We focused on them when we received such requests and studied the reasons for the lack of such important medicines, because a child’s life and health often depend on them; life, if we are talking about orphan diseases.

We have worked on the issue together with corresponding agencies and developed proposals on the need to centralise purchases, because the gap between the retail price the Russian regions now purchase at and the wholesale price is quite big. Here is a simple example from the latest requests. A first-line medicine cost over 30 million rubles, while the wholesale price was six million. This gap makes us want to pay closer attention to price formation, which would allow saving enough money, including with centralised purchases.

This is why we are introducing this proposal, Mr President. It would not only allow saving money but also purchasing medicines for a larger number of children.







Vladimir Putin:

We have discussed this issue many times and do not have the necessary procedure yet. We will definitely discuss it again.



Anna Kuznetsova:

Of course, it is very important and perhaps requires a group to work on the resources for producing many medicines in Russia.

For example, and I say this with joy, I have recently returned from the Vladimir Region where I was surprised to see that the large number of requests to the Commissioner helped to develop new Russian production of T-spot – an alternative means to diagnose TB that everyone can use: children with HIV or suppressed immune system function, or even pregnant women. This is why I see that this issue can also be resolved.



Vladimir Putin:

Of course, that is one of the main trajectories to develop and resolve this issue. We only need for them to have the same and maybe better quality than their foreign analogues at an affordable cost. This is certainly the path we are trying to take.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57642






Meeting with Accounts Chamber Chairman Alexei Kudrin



The President met with the new Chairman of the Accounts Chamber Alexei Kudrin.



June 4, 2018 - 14:15 - The Kremlin, Moscow







Alexei Kudrin was appointed Chairman of the Accounts Chamber on May 22.




President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Kudrin, have you started?



Chairman of the Accounts Chamber Alexei Kudrin:

Yes, I started my duties a week ago. The first week was very busy.

We are finishing the audits across the ministries and agencies regarding their performance last year. I can tell you that almost every ministry or agency has some shortcomings in fulfilling state programmes, even if only the slightest. Some have not achieved target indicators or committed financial violations. There are faults here and there. Almost all ministers and agency heads will receive recommendations.

Based on the results of the previous year, 10 documents have already been submitted to the Prosecutor’s Office. Overall last year, the Accounts Chamber submitted 136 documents to law enforcement agencies, including 86 to the Prosecutor’s Office. Thirty-five criminal cases were opened from the previous year. Therefore, there are many documents that will require remediation of the situation.

But now I want to point out that it is important that the audits focus to a larger extent on evaluating the performance for achieving the targets of the strategic goals set in your May executive order and the state programmes that will correspond to these strategic goals. Accurately describing the result and how these resources influence the results will be the Accounts Chamber’s main responsibility. That being said, the Chamber will not cut down on the work related to the analysis of financial indicators, targeted use of resources and, of course, as I said, efficient use of funds.







Vladimir Putin:

Mr Kudrin, but if you, with your experience and knowledge, which, of course, is extensive, and your view of the problem that I know very well, foresee this new quality of the Accounts Chamber, that would be very good. It would help to achieve the final goal we all are working towards.

To tell the truth, the formal work is important for its targeted use, non-targeted use and effectiveness in general, but the main thing is to assess its final result. If you manage to build the Accounts Chamber’s work in such a way, that would be very good. A regular report for the State Duma deputies to see how the budget money is spent and to direct the Russian Government accordingly, inform me in time, would help very much.







Alexei Kudrin:

Yes, this is exactly what we are going to do. The main approaches were discussed with all the parties during the State Duma meeting when I was appointed. Now we have discussed them at a meeting of the Accounts Chamber Board. In general, they were supported, so we will emphasise the work towards results.

This will take a certain precision of control methods and standards for both inspectors and the ministries to understand the demands and that they will be asked more about the results than simply about the financing process.

We have also discussed the need to make the ministries’ and agencies’ work more transparent. We have to open more data that can be discussed and analysed to assess the results.

This means that countering corruption will also remain the Accounts Chamber’s priority.



Vladimir Putin:

Very well.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57643






Greetings to participants and guests of gala event to mark 300th anniversary of Russian police



Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to the participants and guests of a special event held to mark the 300th anniversary of Russian police.



June 5, 2018 - 15:00



The message reads, in part:

“Established in 1718, the police force launched the development of a new government institution for the protection of law and order.

Since then, the Russian police have been working effectively to attain its goals. The best police officers of Russia acted valiantly and courageously to protect law and order in the most difficult situations and emergencies.

It is noteworthy that our police officers honour the traditions of the service and venerate the courage, dedication and professionalism of the veteran

Society expects you to attain good results in your struggle against crime, corruption and other security threats. Yours is a difficult and responsible mission that demands experience and professional competence, as well as impeccable personal qualities.

I am confident that you will work diligently and honestly in the interests of the country and the people.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57689






Winners of 2017 Russian Federation National Awards



Winners of the 2017 Russian Federation National Awards for outstanding achievements in science and technology, literature and the arts, and humanitarian work have been announced.



June 8, 2018 - 13:15 - The Kremlin, Moscow







The winners were announced at a special briefing by Presidential Aide Andrei Fursenko and member of the Presidential Council for Culture and the Arts Presidium and Presidential Adviser Vladimir Tolstoy.

As per tradition, the President will present the National Awards on Russia Day, which is celebrated on June 12.







***


The 2017 Russian Federation State Prize in science and technology has been awarded to Mikhail ALFIMOV, Sergei GROMOV and Alexander CHIBISOV for the development of photoactive supramolecular devices and equipment

Mikhail Alfimov was born on July 6, 1937, in the village of Ivanovka, Glazunovksy District, Kursk Region. He is a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS) and heads scientific research at the Photochemistry Branch of the RAS Federal Crystallography and Photonics Research Centre.

Sergei Gromov was born in Oryol on May 12, 1953. He is a Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences and heads the Photochemistry Branch at the RAS Federal Research Crystallography and Photonics Centre.

Alexander Chibisov was born in Moscow on September 25, 1937. He is a Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences and Senior Research Associate of the Photochemistry Branch at the RAS Federal Research Crystallography and Photonics Centre.

The research cycle by M. Alkhimov, S. Gromov and A. Chibisov is devoted to supramolecular chemistry – work on the interaction of complementary (mutually supplementary) molecules and molecule fragments.

The supramolecular devices and machines, created by the prizewinner, deliver, synthesise and identify molecules and molecule fragments in nano format. Their energy comes from light that can easily be regulated by both wavelength and intensity. These researchers are trailblazers in world science in this area. Their work discovers a new, unique class of photoactive units – unsaturated colourants, and describes methods of self-assembly in various types of photoactive supramolecular complexes. The latter are used as building blocks for creating photoactive nano-systems on a larger scale – devices for chemical control, chemical reactors for the synthesis of new substances, supramolecular polymers, and a hierarchy of “smart” materials.

Thus, the prizewinners designed a universal set for assembling photoactive supramolecular devices and machines with preset architecture and versatile functionality. Their methods led to the creation of a major branch of research that has the potential for the further use of the results obtained in real time monitoring of the chemical composition of the environment and its biological components, synthesising new substances, as well as in storing and processing information.

The 2017 National Prize in science and technology has been awarded to Ivan DEDOV for his series of work in fundamental endocrinology and introducing an innovative model for personalised medicine in healthcare

Ivan Dedov was born on February 12, 1941, in the village of Dmitryashevka, Voronezh Region. Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, he is the Director of the National Medical Research Centre of Endocrinology at the Russian Ministry of Healthcare.

Mr Dedov created a new personalised approach to using medicines in modern endocrinology. The laureate scientifically substantiated and introduced new methods of personalised diagnosis and treatment for diabetes, and tumors in the thyroid and parathyroid glands, pituitary glands, adrenal glands, endocrine sterility and other endocrinopathies, He detected earlier unknown types of pituitary tumors and developed normative documents on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of socially significant and rare endocrine diseases.

Under the supervision of and with the direct involvement of Dr Dedov, a number of international research efforts were carried out to reveal the diagnostic significance of immunogenetic and molecular genetic markers for diabetes, which fundamentally changed and optimised approaches to treating this disease. Due to Dr Dedov's many years of research and practice and educational work, as well as his organising talents, Russia was ranked in the top ten countries as regards diabetes treatment.

The scientific school of endocrinology created by Ivan Dedov united six institutes of experimental and clinical endocrinology into the National Medical Centre of Endocrinology Research of the Russian Ministry of Healthcare, which conducts work in over 20 areas, including not only treating diabetes but also surgery, neurosurgery, gynecology, urology, children's endocrinology, as well as metabolism pathologies and obesity, reproductive medicine, and others.

The 2017 Russian Federation National Award in science and technology has been awarded to Yevgeny ROGAYEV for discovering the genes and the molecular and genetic mechanisms responsible for hereditary human diseases.

Yevgeny Rogayev was born in the village of Petrovka, Kemerovo Region, on October 31, 1960. He holds a Doctorate in Biology and heads the evolutionary genomics laboratory at the Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences.

A series of works by Yevgeny Rogayev, which he spent many years on, focuses on molecular genetics, human genetics and hereditary human diseases, including identification of the genes involved in important biological functions of the human body and the development of hereditary diseases.

The most important discovery made by Yevgeny Rogayev and his co-authors is that of two genes linked to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. It was preceded by work to develop the methodology for identifying the genes associated with hereditary diseases that Mr Rogayev began in the mid-1980s. The researcher’s recent study showed that the structure of the protease proteins (enzymes splitting other proteins), if encoded by these two genes to inhibit their pathogenic properties, can undergo genetic modification. Mr Rogayev also discovered and cloned several new genes of unusual protease proteins that are similar in structure. The research results have laid the foundation for identifying mechanisms for regulating biological processes inside cells and indicate the lines of research that could be followed to develop drugs to treat Alzheimer’s disease.

One of Mr Rogayev’s widely known achievements is the identification of the genetic cause of a rare hereditary form of hemophilia. Other important achievements by the researcher include the discovery of genetic factors associated with rare hereditary and neuropsychiatric diseases; a gene mutation that leads to early alopecia; and a gene mutation that leads to the development of congenital cataracts.

Yevgeny Rogayev continues to lead work to find and analyse genes with unknown molecular genesis that are involved in the development of diseases. He has founded medical genetics centres and laboratories to study pathological conditions at leading institutes in Russia and abroad, such as the Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, the Institute of Cytology and Genetics at the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Research Centre for Mental Health, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Moscow University.


***


Winners of National Awards in Literature and the Arts

The 2018 Russian Federation National Award in literature and the arts has been awarded to Svetlana SIVKOVA for her contribution to research, preservation and promotion of the marine legacy.

Svetlana Sivkova was born on November 5, 1957, in Sovetsk, Kaliningrad Region. She is the Director General of the Museum of the World Ocean in Kaliningrad Region.

Svetlana Sivkova initiated the creation of the Museum of the World Ocean and has served as Director General since its founding (1990).

Thanks to Ms Sivkova, the museum is now a comprehensive marine-themed collection that tells the fascinating and vivid story of Russia’s marine legacy, sea exploration, and World Ocean flora and fauna. The museum comprises 13 onshore facilities, five museum vessels and eight cultural heritage sites. The total area of the museum facilities exceeds 26,000 sq m, and the museum collections include over 86,000 items.

The museum owns the Historical Fleet Embankment, a unique practice for marine museums, with several ships moored there. Among them are the Vityaz, the world’s largest research vessel and museum; the Project 641 B-413 submarine museum; the Cosmonaut Viktor Patsayev, the world’s only space communication vessel turned into a museum; the SRT-129, Russia’s only fishing vessel and museum; and the Irbensky, Russia’s last floating lighthouse. A museum district was built around the embankment.

The museum’s Navy Centre serves as a patriotic education facility for young people and carries out educational projects such as Sailing School, School Day in a Museum and One Step Towards Victory. Ocean Planet, the main exhibition building that will include the Ocean&I Museum and Educational Centre, is nearing completion.

The museum has won multiple awards in Russian and international museum competitions. It ranked among the top 10 most visited museums in Russia in 2016. In 2017, the museum had more than 630,000 visitors.

The museum is also involved in the preservation of historical vessels. Svetlana Sivkova initiated an inter-agency commission on marine legacy of the Russian Government Marine Board as well as the Russian Marine Heritage Association, which she heads.

The 2017 Russian Federation National Award in literature and the arts has been awarded to Yury TEMIRKANOV for his contribution to the development of Russian and international music culture.

Yury Temirkanov was born on December 10, 1938, in the village of Zaragezh (Urvansky District, Kabardino-Balkar ASSR). He is the Artistic Director of the Shostakovich St Petersburg Academic Philharmonia.

Yury Temirkanov is a remarkable symphonic and opera conductor and is a highly respected musician in Russia and all over the world. He has been heading the symphony orchestra of the St Petersburg Academic Philharmonia for 30 years. The orchestra’s tours around Russia and abroad, various concert programmes and Mr Temirkanov’s signature style have turned it into one of the world’s most famed orchestras.

Large international festivals, such as the Arts Square Festival held in St Petersburg since 1999, take place at Mr Temirkanov’s initiative and with his direct involvement. Thanks to his excellent reputation, various generations of world-famous musicians visit St Petersburg ahead of the New Year celebrations to take part in a concert conducted by Mr Temirkanov in his home philharmonic hall.

Helping talented youth is another area of Mr Temirkanov’s important work. He was one of the first to support the idea of holding Crescendo Festival performances featuring young artists at various Russian concert venues. He has established several prizes awarded to the best students of the St Petersburg Philharmonia Specialised Music School and the Specialised Music School in Nalchik, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria.

Yury Temirkanov has established the International Foundation for Cultural Initiatives and the Yevgeny Kolobov Foundation Prize. He chairs the board of the Step Forward international creative festival for children with disabilities.

The 2017 Russian Federation National Award in literature and the arts has been awarded to Boris EIFMAN for his contribution to the development of Russian and world choreographic art.

Boris Eifman, born July 22, 1946, in Rubtsovsk, Altai Territory, is Chief Choreographer of the St Petersburg Eifman Ballet.

Boris Eifman founded the Leningrad New Ballet company in 1977 (now the St Petersburg Eifman Ballet). He is the author of over 50 original productions, including those based on Russian and international works of classical literature such as I, Don Quixote, My Jerusalem, Don Juan, or Moliere Passions, Anna Karenina, The Seagull, Onegin, Rodin, Beyond Sin, Requiem, Tchaikovsky. PRO et CONTRA, and Russian Hamlet.

Boris Eifman uses the language of dance to study global ethical and philosophical issues and the nature of human passion. Unique choreographic solutions, the exceptional drama of his productions and the high performance standards of the Eifman Ballet ensemble render additional depth and expression to his productions, winning the hearts of Russian and international ballet lovers.

The Eifman Ballet has a busy schedule in Russia and abroad. It also participates in prestigious international festivals.

In 2013, he created the Boris Eifman Dance Academy in St Petersburg to train universal dancers using the best achievements of the Russian school of ballet, modern dance and sport. The academy is a social enterprise offering free education to some 270 children from around Russia. The construction of a children’s dance theatre is being completed in St Petersburg.

There are plans to open a Boris Eifman Dance Palace in the next few years. It is designed to become a global ballet centre and to give fresh impetus to the development of Russian ballet.


***


Winner of the 2017 Russian Federation National Award for outstanding achievements in humanitarian activity.

The 2017 Russian Federation National Award for outstanding achievements in humanitarian activity has been awarded to Irina ANTONOVA.

Irina Antonova was born on March 20, 1922, in Moscow. She is the President of the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts.

Ms Antonova is a full cavalier of the Order of Merit to the Fatherland. She has been awarded the decoration For Beneficence (2017), the Russian Federation National Award in Literature and the Arts (1996), and the Order of the October Revolution and the Order of the Friendship of Poeples. She is a Commander of the Order of Merit to the Italian Republic, and a Cavalier of the Order of the Legion of Honour and the Japanese Order of the Rising Sun, and Gold and Silver stars. Ms Antonova holds a Doctorate in Art History, and is a member of the Russian Academy of Education and the Russian Academy of Arts.

In 1945, Ms Antonova graduated from the art history department of Lomonosov Moscow State University and was invited to work at the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts. She was its Director from 1961 to 2013.

Ms Antonova is highly respected in the Russian and international museum community, and she has made a broad and versatile contribution to the country’s cultural and public life. Her name is associated with the unprecedented expansion of the international ties of Soviet museums and the return of many areas of domestic and world art to the country’s cultural life. Having served in the top management of the International Council of Museums (ICOM) for over ten years, she was one of the initiators of the International Museum Day in 1977. Ms Antonova’s high reputation allowed the museum to hold a number of large-scale exhibitions and display unique masterpieces of world painting, which very rarely travel abroad.

Ms Antonova’s position of principle on the restitution of so-called ‘displaced valuables’ drew substantial public interest. Having participated in the restoration of the Dresden Gallery’s collection that was saved by the Soviet Army and returned to the German people, Ms Antonova consistently advocated the attitude to ‘displaced valuables’ as saved landmarks of culture rather than “trophy art.”

Ms Antonova has always paid much attention to working with the younger generation of museum visitors. Different educational programmes have been carried out in the museum since the middle 1960s, and the Museion Centre of Aesthetic Education of Children and Youth was opened in 2006.

One more of Ms Antonova’s legendary projects that went far beyond the limits of museum activities is a unique festival of arts, December Evenings, that was inspired and directed by outstanding piano player Sviatoslav Richter and has been conducted since 1981.

The reconstruction of the buildings of the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts has been carried out since 2007 at Ms Antonova’s initiative to bring to life the dream of the museum’s founder, Ivan Tsvetayev, to build a ‘museum neighbourhood’.

Established in the early 20th century as an academic museum under Moscow University, the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts has become one of the world’s largest museums, a recognised and popular cultural centre of Russia. Credit for this largely goes to Ms Antonova.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57697






Video address on the occasion of the 2018 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony



June 8, 2018 - 22:00








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

To all football fans and the greatest football teams on the planet – welcome!

Welcome to all who have already arrived in Russia, and to those who are planning to take part in this landmark international event – the FIFA World Cup.

It is with immense joy and a great honor that we receive representatives of the great football family.

We want this event to be a celebration, filled with passion and emotions.

I hope you will have an unforgettable experience – not only watching the matches of your favorite teams and admiring the players’ skills, but also getting to know Russia.

Learning about its identity and culture, its unique history and natural diversity; its hospitable, sincere and friendly people.

We have done our best to ensure that all of our guests – the athletes, the staff and, of course, the fans – feel at home in Russia.

We have opened both our country and our hearts to the world. Welcome to the FIFA World Cup!

(In English.) Welcome to Russia!




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57706
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 10th, 2018 #847
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Interview with China Media Group



Ahead of his visit to People’s Republic of China, the President of Russia answered questions from President of China Media Group Shen Haixiong.



June 6, 2018 - 07:00 - Moscow








President of China Media Group Shen Haixiong:

Mr President, thank you very much for accepting China Media Group’s request for this interview. On May 7, you were inaugurated as President of Russia. We broadcasted the ceremony online. I watched the entire broadcast, about 45 minutes, and was deeply moved. Please tell me how is your fourth speech different from the previous ones? What were your feelings?



Vladimir Putin:

First of all, I would like to thank you for your interest in Russia and for your decision to meet here today. I would like to take this opportunity to extend my best wishes to the Chinese people. We know that we have many friends in China. And the fact that you watched the inauguration online shows that the ceremony, and Russia in general, are of interest to the Chinese. I would like to wish the Chinese people all the best, happiness and prosperity for every Chinese family.

Speaking about the new term as President of the Russian Federation, if you were watching the ceremony, you probably heard what I was talking about. Russia’s continued progressive development as well as ensuring economic growth, introducing more innovations, developing infrastructure, healthcare and education and, of course, providing security are all our priorities, and when I say “our,” I refer to myself and my team.

We will focus on positioning Russia on the global stage as a country that adheres to the principles of international law, respects its partners’ interests and, of course, will protect its own interests.

In this sense, I would like to say that we pay great attention to cooperating with our traditional and reliable partners, allies and friends. The People’s Republic of China is, of course, among them.



Shen Haixiong:

Thank you.

I noted that, starting wi your Address to the Federal Assembly, you often mention the Russian dream. As you may know, the Chinese people are also trying to realise the Chinese dream introduced by President Xi Jinping. In what aspects, in your opinion, are these dreams similar and different?



Vladimir Putin:

Russia and China are neighbours. We have been interacting for centuries, and our historical ties and roots go very deep. It is not by chance that in recent decades, as neighbours, we have built a relationship that probably cannot be compared with anything in the world. It is truly built on consideration of each other’s interests.

Look, in 2001, we signed the Treaty of Friendship and Neighborliness, but this treaty is only the foundation we have built our current relationship on. With every year passing, we add new paint and new floors to that building; it is growing taller and stronger. This is no accident: it means that we have many things in common, including our approaches to building our states and to our people, and this is very important.

Take what President Xi Jinping said at the latest party congress. What lies at the foundation of everything he said? The aspiration to improve people’s lives. This goal may be achieved by different means, but it is the same for us; Russia cannot have any other goal but improving its citizens’ lives. It informs the way we think about how to build Russian-Chinese relations to achieve these goals, to ensure our external security and work together to create a new kind of economy based on the latest innovations, the digital economy, advances in genetics and the best ways to manage society, the state and the economy itself. So we have many things in common. And I believe that we will succeed if we join our efforts.



Shen Haixiong:

Thank you very much.

Last year you met with the leaders of China more than with those of any other country. You met with Xi Jinping five times. You also awarded President Xi Jinping the Order of St Andrew, the highest award in Russia. Please share your impressions of your interactions with President Xi Jinping.



Vladimir Putin:

You know, I cannot share some things, as these are personal observations and a personal relationship. But President Xi Jinping is probably the only world leader I have celebrated one of my birthdays with. Either because I did not have that kind of relationship or because schedules would not permit it, I had never celebrated a birthday with any of my foreign colleagues before. But I did with President Xi Jinping. And then (I already spoke about it publicly, there is no secret here), it was a very simple event. I will be frank, I do not know, he probably will not be angry with me if I share that we drank a shot of vodka and just cut up some sausage. We just did it at the end of a workday. But I want to start with this, if we are talking about personal characteristics.

He is a very accessible and sincere person. But at the same time, he is a very reliable partner. I can be sure that if I reach an agreement with President Xi Jinping, we will both always strive to meet our obligations. This is the first thing.

Second. Like many leaders of other countries – this, I think, unites all of us – in his work, he strives for the best result for the benefit of every person in his own country.

He is a good analyst and it is interesting to discuss world problems and economic issues with him. Therefore, he is a very comfortable partner for me and a good and reliable friend.



Shen Haixiong:

Thank you. I share your sentiments.

In several days you will leave for the Chinese city of Qingdao to take part in the SCO summit. You will also pay an official visit to China. What do you think can be done to make the organisation’s work more effective and positive following its expansion?



Vladimir Putin:

The SCO was initially established as a relatively modest organisation to deal with issues between Russia, China and a number of former Soviet republics.

Let me repeat, our goals were relatively modest, but in the process of gradually addressing them we realised that we have many things in common, in the sense that we can achieve more significant results than simply frontier matters. And the SCO began to develop. After India and Pakistan were admitted to the SCO, it became clear that comprehensive work should begin, begin in China, and also that the SCO has become a global organisation.

This is an obvious fact, because our countries account for a quarter of the global GDP, 43 percent of the world’s population and 23 percent of the planet’s total area. The resources are immense. Considering the growth dynamics in Asia, in China and India, we will try to give a boost to Russia’s economy and support the dynamics we need.

All of this, together with our military capabilities, constitutes a huge force that we, of course, will not use for confrontation but for establishing the necessary conditions for multifaceted cooperation between our countries and with other countries as well, wherever they are on the globe.

Of course, joint efforts of such a powerful group will be an important factor for our own development, and will also influence the international situation. I am confident that this influence will be positive.



Shen Haixiong:

Thank you.

Qingdao is a beautiful coastal city famous for its seafood and beer. Do you plan to try it?



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, I would like to. I like both seafood and beer, although I try not to drink often, but I would like to taste it and will gladly do so.



Shen Haixiong:

Thank you.

This year, the Belt and Road Initiative marks its fifth anniversary. President Xi Jinping said that this initiative aims to build a community of humanity’s common destiny. What do you think about this concept?



Vladimir Putin:

We have always supported this idea. President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative has both economic and humanitarian elements. First of all, we are speaking about the economy and the infrastructure. We believe this is a useful, important and promising initiative. It meets our efforts to build the Eurasian Economic Union.

In addition, recently, on May 17, the Eurasian Economic Union and China signed an agreement on economic cooperation. For now, it does not concern lowering tariffs, but other very important issues, such as trade policy, technical regulations and phytosanitary control. In fact, we are making a very important step towards removing the barriers to economic cooperation.

Still, President Xi Jinping’s idea, as we see it, is more global: it aims to develop cooperation with all countries and continents. We have a general idea of Eurasian economic cooperation. I think that all of this adds up and may have a positive outcome. Speaking about the idea’s infrastructure element, let me say that we know about our Chinese partners’ interest in working along the Northern Sea Route.

We welcome it. However, this is not the only area; we have good plans for industrial cooperation and railway infrastructure development as well. These are all powerful and promising areas that will for sure become the foundation of our cooperation.

Today China is Russia’s number one trade partner. Last year, trade reached $87 billion, and this year, the growth in the first four months was the same as during all of last year. This is a very good pace that we must keep up and even increase.



Shen Haixiong:

Thank you.

In the published May Executive Orders, great attention is paid to improving living standards and the development of the digital economy. What else can Russia and China do to deepen cooperation in these areas in your opinion?



Vladimir Putin:

This is one of the key areas. We know how much attention both President Xi Jinping and the Government of the People's Republic of China pay to the development of modern forms of management and to such promising areas as the digital economy. We believe that this, of course, is closely related to such important areas of the future technological order as robotics and artificial intelligence.

In the modern world, all major discoveries, the most promising discoveries are made at the intersection of sciences. This includes biology, genetics, and other areas that, of course, will make those who succeed in them leaders of world development. And we, not forgetting about our traditional spheres of cooperation, will, of course, strive to join our efforts with our Chinese friends in these key areas of today and especially tomorrow.

We have relevant ideas, plans and some developments of our own. We know that China already has had significant achievements. For example, in the field of the internet of things and digital commerce. However, this will not be enough for successful development in the short term for both China and Russia. We need to develop digital technologies in industry, in infrastructure, in energy, including in the electric power industry, and in alternative types of energy. There we can and need to introduce the latest developments, the latest achievements. If we do this, we will be absolute leaders. We will strive for this.







Shen Haixiong:

Thank you.

Despite the fact that everyone is striving for equitable dialogue and cooperation, you now face acute challenges. I mean the sanctions of the Western countries targeting the Russian economy and other pressure. Where will Russian-US relations and Russia's relations with Western countries go from here, in your view?



Vladimir Putin:

I look forward to good, positive relations. We are not surprised by any restrictions or sanctions; this does not frighten us and will never force us to abandon our independent, sovereign path of development.

I believe that either Russia will be sovereign, or it will not exist at all. And, of course, the Russian people will always choose the first. I think the Chinese people feel the same. There is no other way for us. But we understand that our partners are trying to limit our development by imposing these restrictions and sanctions.

I have no doubt that this, as lawyers say, is an exercise in futility, and nothing will come of it. This policy primarily hurts those who initiated it. However, I believe that common sense will still prevail, that all illegal restrictions that are harmful to the development of the world economy will be gradually removed, and we will normalise our relations with all partners, including the United States, and other countries that did their bidding and also imposed these sanctions.

By the way, those who, as I said, did the US’s bidding, are beginning to suffer from what the United States is starting to impose on these countries themselves. All this taken together gradually – and I am not gloating or being sarcastic – but it all speaks to the fact that these means cannot be universal, and sooner or later it will become obvious that their use harms everyone, including the initiators of these initiatives. In the end, I hope that our relations will normalise one way or another.



Shen Haixiong:

Thank you.

Since the beginning of this year, some positive changes have occurred in some hotbeds such as the Korean Peninsula and Syria. However, the situation remains unclear. What do you think about Russia’s role in resolving these crises and where can Russia and China cooperate on this?



Vladimir Putin:

Speaking about the Korean peninsula, our approaches, as diplomats say, are the same or similar. Probably the first. We were the initiators of a roadmap for the settlement process on the Korean Peninsula. Recently, China has done a lot to defuse the situation somewhat. We are very happy to see this and will provide any support we can.

As you know, the Russian Foreign Minister is in North Korea now having talks with its leaders, including on a settlement process.

We can also see that the North Korean leaders have taken unexpected, even for me – I would even say unprecedented – steps to de-escalate the situation. First, they announced that they would stop nuclear testing. In addition, they have already destroyed one of their largest nuclear test sites. Of course, these are all practical steps towards denuclearisation, which is our common final goal.

I can understand the North Korean leadership when they talk about the security guarantees they need for total denuclearisation. How else could it be? There is no other way imaginable, especially after what happened in Libya and Iraq. The North Koreans have not forgotten. So of course, they would demand guarantees. Today it is difficult to say what these guarantees may look like or when they will come into effect. However, we can, and should, move towards this goal: to de-escalate tensions and, ultimately, to denuclearise.

It is a pity that our Western partners, the United States and, unfortunately, South Korea have not stopped their military exercises and maneuvers that do nothing to aid de-escalation. But I still hope that this meeting – a very brave and mature decision US President Donald Trump has made, to have direct contacts with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un – will take place, and we all expect a positive outcome. The roadmap I have mentioned, the Russian-Chinese roadmap, has points on the settlement process in North Korea, the next phase of which is promoting relations between all the counties responsible for this de-escalation.

The next phase is multifaceted cooperation among all stakeholders, first of all, to draft these security guarantees. And, of course, Russia has always proposed this, and it remains on the table: a trilateral economic project between Russia and the northern and southern parts of the Korean Peninsula. Primarily, these would be infrastructure projects, such as railway construction (actually, China could join them) between Russia, North Korea and South Korea. We are talking about pipelines. We can also think about building other energy facilities. There are many opportunities for joint work both in a three-party and four-party format: we only have to move towards them. We will all be eagerly awaiting the outcome of the meeting between US President Donald Trump and the North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and will support it in any way we can.



Shen Haixiong:

Thank you.

I have just mentioned our corporation's online projects, such as “Who’s a Fan of Vladimir Putin?” So I have several questions we received from our users. Over 40 million users took part in these events. Now I would like, on behalf of our users, to ask you four questions.



Vladimir Putin:

Please do.



Shen Haixiong:

The first one. Russia is the host of this year's football World Cup. What kind of results do you think the Russian national team can achieve?



Vladimir Putin:

The person who asked this question mentioned that Russia is the host of this tournament. So our main and essential goal, as the host country, is to provide good organisation of the World Cup and make it a real festival for millions of football fans all around the world. This will be our main achievement.

As regards the national team, I have to acknowledge that, sadly, our team has not enjoyed great results lately. But we, all the fans and football lovers in Russia, have high hopes that our team will make a good showing, play a modern, interesting and beautiful style of football, and fight to the finish.



Shen Haixiong:

Which team do you think will win?



Vladimir Putin:

This is a tough question. There are many contenders. There are Latin American teams – Argentina and Brazil. At previous World Cups, the German team has performed brilliantly, and the Spanish team has played a beautiful brand of football too. There will certainly be other contenders, but only the best will win.



Shen Haixiong:

Will you watch the World Cup matches?



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, I will. Also, as the President of the host country, I will be attending the opening and closing ceremonies. I will check my schedule. I will attend more matches if I can.



Shen Haixiong:

Who is your favourite footballer?



Vladimir Putin:

There are footballers whom I consider outstanding and whom I can definitely call my favourite. Lev Yashin among Russian and Soviet players, and Pele among foreign ones. I also like Maradona very much.



Shen Haixiong:

Thank you.

All our users know that you love sports. What sports do you currently play? How much time do you spend on it a day?



Vladimir Putin:

Every day I spend about 2–2.5 hours doing sports. I go to the gym, I swim, sometimes I get out on the mat, if I have sparring partners, and sometimes I play hockey. Not really play hockey but try to.







Shen Haixiong:

In the news, we often see you onboard a fighter jet or a submarine. Our users consider you a super-president. If you were not involved in politics, what would be your profession?



Vladimir Putin:

I worked in the intelligence service of the Soviet Union, in the foreign intelligence service of the Soviet Union. I already have a profession. (Laughing.) But I graduated from St Petersburg State University with a degree in law, so I could have worked as a lawyer, but I worked all my life in security agencies and in foreign intelligence in the Soviet Union. Then I worked in the executive authorities in St Petersburg. I enjoyed each of these activities. I think that I really could work as a lawyer.



Shen Haixiong:

Thank you.

In 2016, when you participated in the G20 summit in Hangzhou, you brought as a gift a carton of Russian ice cream. Will you bring something this year?



Vladimir Putin:

Yes. (Laughing.)

I brought it because President Xi Jinping mentioned that he loves Russian ice cream, so I brought it for him as a gift.

He and I exchange trifles occasionally. But it will ruin the surprise, if I tell you in advance what I will bring him as a gift. It will be a secret between me and you, I will whisper it in your ear later. (Laughing.)



Shen Haixiong:

Thank you very much, Mr President, for today's interview. We wish you good luck and success in your fourth term and in hosting the World Cup.



Vladimir Putin:

Thank you!




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57684






Greetings on opening of 2018 International Salon Integrated Safety and Security Exhibition



Vladimir Putin sent greetings to the participants, organisers and guests of the 2018 International Salon Integrated Safety and Security Exhibition.



June 6, 2018 - 10:00



The message reads, in part:

“Over the past years your well-represented forum has gained a reputation of a respected venue for showcasing the latest achievements in the security industry.

I should stress that preventing accidents and ensuring effective protection for the population and territories from natural disasters and industrial accidents have a direct impact on the standard of living and wellbeing of the people and the situation in the economy. This is why it is exceptionally important that your project is steadily building up its potential, uniting a large number of participants, and putting special emphasis on the support and promotion of domestic innovation and promising design.

I am confident that the Salon will operate in an open and constructive spirit, will contribute to international cooperation and materialisation of sought-after projects and initiatives and will offer a unique opportunity for sharing best practices.”

The 2018 International Salon Integrated Safety and Security Exhibition, the largest exposition of security and rescue equipment organised by the Russian Emergencies Ministry, will run near Moscow from June 6 to 8.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57688






Greeting on the opening of the first Russian-Czech Discussion Forum meeting



Vladimir Putin sent greetings to the participants of the first meeting of the Russian-Czech Discussion Forum.



June 7, 2018 - 09:30



The message reads, in part:

“We reached an agreement on the creation of this new annual dialogue platform during Czech President Milos Zeman’s visit to Russia last year. I am pleased to note that representatives of government agencies, regional authorities and non-governmental organisations, heads of leading universities, respected academic and cultural figures have shown interest in participating.

The agenda of your meeting includes both current issues and very significant historical topics. It is important that you give priority to our interaction in education and awareness, and to join the effort to preserve our common cultural and spiritual heritage.

I am confident that your discussions will be interesting and informative and will serve to strengthen bilateral humanitarian cooperation, which is traditionally an important component of Russian-Czech relations.”

The first Russian-Czech Discussion Forum opened in Prague on June 7.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57715






Greeting on the opening of Russia-Mongolia Initiative 2018



Vladimir Putin sent greetings to the participants and guests of the Russia-Mongolia Initiative 2018 series of events.



June 7, 2018 - 09:45



The message reads, in part:

“Russia highly values ​​relations with Mongolia, which are based on long-standing traditions of friendship, neighbourliness and mutual respect. Further developing the full range of bilateral relations in the spirit of strategic partnership is one of our foreign policy priorities in Eurasia. We attach special importance to expanding constructive political dialogue at all levels, and implementing joint projects in transport, infrastructure, energy and agriculture.

The events organised as part of Russia-Mongolia Initiative 2018 provide a good opportunity for communication between the representatives of central and local authorities, business circles and public organisations of our two countries. I am confident that your meetings will feature a detailed discussion on various aspects of trade, economic, investment and industrial cooperation between Russia and Mongolia, will facilitate the conclusion of new mutually beneficial contracts, and the exchange of professional experience and advanced scientific and technical developments.”

Russia-Mongolia Initiative 2018 is taking place on June 7–10 in Ulaanbaatar.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57714






Vladimir Putin arrived in China



The President of Russia arrived in the People’s Republic of China on a state visit at the invitation of President of China Xi Jinping.



June 8, 2018 - 10:00 - Beijing







As part of the state visit, on June 8, the President of Russia will have talks with the Chinese leadership to discuss the entire scope of Russia-China comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation, as well as the most pressing issues on the international agenda. A number of bilateral documents will be signed following the talks.
















On June 9–10, Vladimir Putin will attend the SCO Heads of State Council meeting in Qingdao.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57695






Meeting with Premier of the State Council of China Li Keqiang



As part of his state visit to the People’s Republic of China, Vladimir Putin met with Premier of the State Council of China Li Keqiang.



June 8, 2018 - 10:30 - Beijing







At the meeting, the President of Russia particularly noted the dynamic development of Russia-China relations.

In addition, the Russian President stressed that during his state visit he plans to discuss the prospects of bilateral cooperation with the Chinese leadership, as well as various aspects of cooperation with China in a multilateral format.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Premier, I am glad to have this opportunity to discuss our bilateral relations with our friends, the Chinese leadership, as well as our multilateral cooperation within the SCO. We will take this opportunity during this visit.







I would like to point out that, thanks to the efforts of our governments, the trade and economic ties between our countries are developing successfully. We are gathering pace, which is good news, and we are looking for more and more areas of cooperation.










I am very glad to meet with you today and to cover all the aspects of our work with China.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57694






Russian-Chinese talks



Vladimir Putin and President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping held talks in Beijing.



June 8, 2018 - 12:20 - Beijing







The President of Russia arrived in China on a state visit. The official ceremony to welcome the President of Russia took place on the square in front of the Great Hall of the People prior to the meeting of the two leaders. The conversation between Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping took place behind closed doors and was followed by talks with participation of the two countries’ delegations.



















A number of bilateral documents were signed following the consultations, including a Joint Statement of the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China.



















The two sides signed agreements on international road transport, on scientific cooperation between the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and on joint construction and operation of the demonstration fast reactor in China. Other documents concern the strengthening of investment cooperation, e-commerce cooperation, joint exploration of Moon surface and deep space, as well as construction of power units 7 and 8 for the Tianwan Nuclear Power Plant and power units for the Xudabao Nuclear Power Plant at facilities in China.

The presidents of Russia and China also made statements for the press.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57696






Beginning of talks with President of China Xi Jinping in restricted format



June 8, 2018 - 11:00 - Beijing




President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Let me personally congratulate you on your re-election as President of the People’s Republic of China, and wish you success in this very responsible office.

Strategic interaction between Russia and China remains one of the most important priorities of the Russian Federation. It has reached an unprecedentedly high level and become an example of how interstate relations should be built in the modern world.

This progressive and dynamic development of bilateral relations is based on the traditional friendship of our peoples, mutual respect and consideration for each other’s interests.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/57705






Beginning of talks with President of China Xi Jinping in expanded format



June 8, 2018 - 11:45 - Beijing








President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping (retranslated):

President Putin, friends,

I would like to once again warmly welcome President Putin to China.

Today our countries have successfully completed important items on each country’s development agenda. To ensure the prosperity and stability of both countries, to promote the constructive basis established by the comprehensive development of Russia-China relations regardless of how the international situation might change, Russia and China have always adhered to the view that the development of bilateral relations is a priority for each of our states.

Each party strongly supports the other in upholding its root interests, and is deepening trade and economic, investment, energy, humanitarian and the regional aspects of cooperation. The two parties together are actively involved in international affairs and the establishment of the world order. Relations between Russia and China will provide a solid basis for promoting a new type of international relations.







Today the relations of all-round strategic cooperation and partnership, which have scaled a new historical height, have a new and highly important opportunity for further development. Our countries have formed new governments, and the mechanism of cooperation at the level of vice-premiers is working effectively.

I hope that the two sides will carry on the wonderful traditions, fully tap the potential of all the cooperation mechanisms, promote cooperation in all areas, constantly seek to achieve new results, strengthen the material basis for cooperation between the two countries and strive for a high level of development in Russia-China relations.



President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, Chinese colleagues, friends,

We have held very meaningful talks with President Xi Jinping in a restricted format. We openly exchanged opinions on the most important issues of Russian-Chinese strategic cooperation and also on current international matters.

We pointed out with satisfaction that Russian-Chinese relations remain truly friendly and good-neighbourly and are developing consistently in the spirit of comprehensive strategic partnership.

Our trade is growing, along with investment. We work closely together on international platforms and coordinate our efforts at international organisations. We are interacting at the level of foreign ministries and defence departments and promoting our military and technical cooperation.







I would like to express our appreciation of our joint efforts on regional platforms, including in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. We see that our Chinese friends have done a great deal to strengthen the SCO and make it a truly global organisation. We will contribute to boosting our joint efforts and our common interests in this area.

I am confident that the summit we will hold tomorrow will be a success and so I would like to thank our Chinese friends for what they have done towards this.

Thank you very much.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/57698






Press statements following Russian-Chinese talks



June 8, 2018 - 12:50 - Beijing








President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping (retranslated):

President Putin,

Friends, ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. I am happy to meet with you together with my great friend President Putin.

It is China that President Putin is making his first state visit to during his new presidential term. This demonstrates Russia’s close attention to the development of China-Russia relations.

This afternoon, Mr Putin and I held our first meeting this year. We exchanged views on the consolidation and deepening of China-Russia relations under today’s conditions, and the promotion of multi-faceted cooperation and reached important agreements.

We signed and made public a joint statement by the People’s Republic of China and the Russian Federation. We signed a number of important cooperation agreements between our ministries, departments and enterprises.

I can say that this visit by President Putin to China has been crowned with important results and has given a powerful impetus to the development of bilateral relations.

President Putin and I agree that our comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation is fairly mature, stable and strong. It is distinguished among relations between great powers by its high level, rich content and highly important strategic significance.

Both sides value the achievements of bilateral relations, reaffirming their readiness to continue strengthening their resolve and take more practical steps in the spirit of centuries-old friendship and strategic cooperation to further expand and deepen the multi-faceted cooperation and produce new results in bilateral relations in the new era.

China has the world’s largest population and Russia has the world’s largest territory. As neighbours we have a huge advantage and internal impetus for cooperation in all areas.

We are pleased to note that through our common efforts Chinese-Russian cooperation maintains a quick dynamic, that the material foundations of our bilateral relations are growing stronger and that the merging of our interests is deepening.

In the first four months of this year, our trade amounted to $31.2 billion, which is an increase of 27.3 percent over the corresponding period of last year. China remains Russia’s biggest trade partner.

The trade structure of our countries is substantially improving. Major strategic projects in the investment, energy, transport, infrastructure, aviation and aerospace areas are making rapid headway.







New points of growth are appearing in science and technology, as well as in agriculture and e-commerce.

We share the view that trade protectionism is increasing. There are quite a few factors of instability and uncertainty in the world economy.

Economic globalisation and regional economic integration are an irreversible trend. In these conditions Russia and China are actively developing the One Belt, One Road joint project and have achieved tangible interim results. China and the EAEU have signed an agreement on trade and economic cooperation.

The related agencies of the two countries have signed joint statements on the completion of the feasibility study and the agreement on the Eurasian economic partnership and a memorandum of understanding on e-commerce cooperation.

China, Russia and other countries in our region are forming a new architectonics of cooperation on the basis of joint coordination, joint construction and joint use. We are willing to share the opportunities from our development with other countries, and give an impetus to the development of our national economies that will make a big contribution to the prosperity of our region and the world as a whole.

Our cultural ties are developing rapidly. In 2018 and 2019, we will be holding the cross-years of Russia-China Interregional Cooperation. Our countries’ regions are making use of this opportunity to build up their ties, cooperation, mutual understanding and friendship. The number of educational and tourist exchanges between our countries is increasing.

In June of this year, Russia will host the FIFA World Cup, and in 2022 Beijing will host the Winter Olympics. China and Russia support each other in holding these international sports events and are increasing sports exchanges and cooperation.

China and Russia as permanent UN Security Council members are responsible world powers. President Putin and I have agreed to strengthen mutual support and assistance in international affairs and to deepen strategic interaction in this complicated and volatile international situation.

In this context, we are ready to work with the international community to firmly protect the world order and the system of international relations based on the norms and principles of the UN Charter. We will continue to advocate a multipolar world order and more democratic international relations, the political settlement of conflicts, new systems of international relations based on mutual respect, justice and mutual benefit. We will continue to create a community of nations with a common future and do all we can to build a clean and beautiful world of long-lasting peace, universal security, joint prosperity, openness and tolerance.

I know that the agenda of your visit is interesting and includes many events. I will accompany President Putin to a cultural event in Tianjin. We will continue discussions on issues of mutual interest. The day after tomorrow, we will attend an SCO summit with the leaders of the other member states to discuss the future of our organisation and the further development of the Shanghai spirit.

Friends, we will hold a special event soon. I will award President Putin with the first Order of Friendship. It is the highest state decoration in the People’s Republic of China awarded to foreign citizens. President Putin is a great friend of China. He is highly respected by our people and is making a great contribution to strengthening Russian-Chinese relations and friendship between our peoples. He truly deserves this award. I invite all of you to the award ceremony, which begins immediately after this meeting.

Thank you.







President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, my dear friend! Ladies and gentlemen,

The Russian-Chinese talks were held in a constructive and business-like atmosphere. We discussed all issues related to the current state and future development of bilateral ties. We also had a meaningful exchange of opinions on key international issues.

We made certain arrangements, as you can see from our Joint Statement and a number of interdepartmental agreements we have signed.

I would like to point out the strategic nature of Russian-Chinese interaction, which is based on the principles of equality, neighbourly relations and trust.

We look forward to welcoming the President of China as the main guest at the Eastern Economic Forum, which will be held in Vladivostok in September.

Our interdepartmental commission, foreign policy and industry-specific ministries are working productively. Our parliaments and the general public have developed rewarding ties.

Our trade and economic cooperation is growing. Last year, our trade reached $87 billion. We have increased the delivery of added-value products, including machines, equipment, and vehicles.

In January to March 2018, Russian-Chinese trade went up by 31 percent. If we keep up the pace, we will be able to report a record figure this year towards which we have been working for the past few years – $100 billion.

We are expanding our investment cooperation. Over 70 priority projects worth more than $20 billion are being implemented within the framework of the Intergovernmental Commission on Investment Cooperation.

Energy is the key sphere of bilateral cooperation. Russia is China’s largest fuel supplier to the Chinese market. It supplied over 50 million tonnes of oil to China last year and increased deliveries by 26 percent in January to April 2018. The construction of a gas pipeline via the eastern route is proceeding to schedule.

The parties have coordinated the main parameters of Russian natural gas deliveries from the Russian Far East to China. Russian and Chinese energy companies are working together in gas production and liquefaction at Yamal LNG. Chinese consumers received the first gas from the Yamal field in December 2017.

Under a package of agreements that have been signed in Beijing, Rosatom will build two more power units for the Tianwan NPP. Russia and China have coordinated the construction of one more Russian-designed nuclear power plant in China.

Russia will assist China in the construction of a demonstration fast reactor. Cutting-edge Russian achievements will be applied in China’s Moon exploration programme.

I would like to point out the unequalled format of Russia’s cooperation with China. I am referring to the highly sensitive, unique joint projects of Russian and Chinese researchers.







We also discussed cooperation in high-tech areas, such as the creation of long-haul aircraft and a heavy-lift helicopter.

Our plans include the implementation of infrastructure projects, such as the Eurasia cargo and passenger rail corridor and the Primorye 1 and 2 transport corridors.

We talked about the joint development of the Northern Sea Route, the Trans-Siberian Railway and the Baikal-Amur Mainline.

We noted with satisfaction the further development of our cultural and humanitarian cooperation. The cross years of Russia-China Interregional Cooperation began in February.

This spring, the Bolshoi Theatre and the Russian National Orchestra gave guest performances in China. The Moscow Kremlin Museums are hosting their first exhibition of Ming dynasty artefacts from the Shanghai Museum.

Our ties in education are growing stronger as well. Shenzhen MSU-BIT University, which was cofounded by Moscow State University and Beijing Institute of Technology, has opened its doors.

Mutual tourism is growing.

Our discussions on international issues have confirmed that we hold similar or identical views on many global and regional matters.

We have high regard for the results of China’s chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

We spoke about future interaction between China and the Eurasian Economic Union. We are resolved to continue to work together to promote and align the integration processes in Eurasia, in particular, the EAEU and China’s Silk Road Economic Belt initiative, which should ultimately lead to the development of a Greater Eurasian Partnership.

A big step towards this was made in Astana this May with the signing of an agreement on trade and economic cooperation between EAEU member states and China.

We also discussed the situation on the Korean Peninsula. Russia and China are interested in the restoration of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia as a whole.

It is gratifying that the nascent inter-Korean talks proceed in the spirit of the Russian-Chinese roadmap on the settlement of the Korean problem. Recent Russian-North Korean contacts have confirmed Pyongyang’s readiness for constructive work.

We also touched on the situation with Iran’s nuclear programme.

Ladies and gentlemen, my agenda is not completed yet. Several events are planned for the evening. The President of China has just told me that. Nevertheless, I would like to thank Mr President and all our Chinese colleagues for this hospitable and warm reception.

I am convinced that the arrangements we have made today will help strengthen Russian-Chinese friendship and boost the prosperity of our nations.

Thank you.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/57699






Vladimir Putin awarded the Chinese Order of Friendship



President of China Xi Jinping awarded the Order of Friendship of the People’s Republic of China to Vladimir Putin. The President of Russia is the first foreign leader to be awarded this high national order of China.



June 8, 2018 - 13:45 - Beijing







The Order of Friendship of the People’s Republic of China is awarded to foreign citizens for special contribution to the development and modernisation of China, for promoting China’s ties and cooperation with other countries, and for maintaining world peace.








President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping (retranslated):

President Putin, dear friends,

Today we are holding a ceremony to award the Order of Friendship of the People's Republic of China to an old and great friend of the Chinese people, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin.

The Order of Friendship is China's highest state decoration, conferred on foreign friends for supporting China’s development and modernisation, as well as for outstanding contribution to promoting exchanges and cooperation between China and other countries, and to the defence of peace around the world.

The awarding of this decoration to President Putin is the first awarding since China introduced a system of decorations for state merit.







President Putin, the leader of a major power with global influence, is the founder of current Chinese-Russian relations and always promotes their development at a high level. Since 2000, President Putin has made 19 trips to China, including on official visits and to attend international events. He has visited China more often than any other global leader, and he is best known and respected in China. President Putin is also my best and closest friend.

In 2001, President Putin signed the Treaty of Good-Neighbourliness, Friendship and Cooperation between China and Russia, which created a solid legal framework for the centuries-old friendship between our countries. Thanks to his constant attention and personal involvement, Chinese-Russian relations have withstood the trials of a changing international situation; political and strategic trust between the two nations is growing stronger; significant progress is being made in our multifaceted cooperation; and the friendship between our peoples is deepening.

The increasingly ambitious Chinese-Russian projects bring benefits to the peoples of both countries, and are a worthy example of harmonious coexistence of world powers and neighbouring states. They serve as a significant contribution to the formation of a new type of international relations and a community for the common future of humankind.







Standing on the threshold of a new start, President Putin and I are ready to further advance Chinese-Russian relations and open up even more brilliant prospects in the spirit of good-neighbourliness and friendship, strategic interaction and mutual benefit.

The prestigious Order of Friendship is not only a testament to China’s high esteem of President Putin, but also the deep friendship between the great peoples of China and Russia.

We would like to take this opportunity and sincerely wish President Putin continued success in his position of high importance; we wish prosperity and power to the great Chinese and Russian nations, and happiness and eternal friendship to the peoples of our countries.

Thank you.







President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, my dear friend! Ladies and gentlemen, friends,

It is a great honour for me to be awarded this prestigious state award of China – the Order of Friendship.

I know that the order was established quite recently and is awarded for the first time today. I sincerely thank my Chinese friends for such a special sign of attention. I take this as recognition and appreciation of the Russian efforts to develop a comprehensive strategic partnership with China.







My colleagues and I are grateful to you, Mr President, for today’s ceremony. We can see what is being done, as well as how it happens.

This is also a sign of special attention and respect, based, of course, on our mutual national interests, the interests of our peoples and, of course, the friendly personal relations between us.







Allow me to emphasise that our country sincerely values ​​the good-neighbourly relations and friendship with China. We are proud of our common achievements in politics, the economy, science, and culture. We appreciate the high level of cooperation achieved in the international arena. And we are fully confident of the certain success of all our undertakings.

I would like to thank you again for such a high award. I look forward to continuing our joint work to deepen Russian-Chinese strategic cooperation for the sake of welfare and prosperity of the peoples of Russia and China.

Thank you.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57701






Vladimir Putin visited Tianjin



June 8, 2018 - 16:15 - Tianjin







Vladimir Putin and President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping watched a hockey game between the two countries’ youth teams. Russia was represented by the Devon team from Bashkiria.













Before the game, the two leaders took the ice, spoke to players and participated in a ceremonial face-off, and then watched the first period from the stands. The teams also presented their jerseys to the Russian and Chinese presidents prior to the game.













Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping arrived in Tianjin on a high-speed train. During the ride, in the presence of the Russian and Chinese leaders, the heads of Russian Railways and China Railway Corporation signed a memorandum on organising rapid and high-speed trans-border rail freight transit on the China-Russia-Europe route.













The day before, during Direct Line, the Russian President said he would take a Chinese high-speed train and would be able to appreciate China’s achievements in this area. The President stressed that he planned to discuss the implementation of the joint project to build a high-speed rail line between Moscow and Kazan with Russia’s Chinese partners.










During a reception hosted on behalf of the Chinese President in the Tianjin Government Reception House, Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping cooked and tasted traditional Chinese dishes. The President of Russia personally cooked Goubuli buns, which are similar to dumplings, and also tasted paper-thin Tianjin pancakes filled with meat and vegetables.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57704






Telephone conversation with President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko



Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko at the Ukrainian side’s initiative.



June 9, 2018 - 14:45



The two presidents discussed the situation in southeast Ukraine and the implementation of the Minsk Package of Measures, including in light of the upcoming meeting of the Normandy format foreign ministers, which is to take place in Berlin on June 11.

They highlighted humanitarian issues, including the exchange of detainees. Vladimir Putin pointed out the importance of releasing the Russian journalists arrested in Ukraine without delay.

The two leaders agreed that the two countries’ human rights commissioners should visit Russian citizens detained in Ukraine and Ukrainian detainees in Russia.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57712
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 12th, 2018 #848
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post







Direct Line with Vladimir Putin - PART I



The annual special Direct Line with Vladimir Putin was broadcast live by Channel One, Rossiya 1, Rossiya 24 and Public Television of Russia TV channels, and Mayak, Vesti FM and Radio Rossii radio stations.



June 7, 2018 - 16:30 - Moscow








Andrei Kondrashov:

Good afternoon. This is Direct Line with Vladimir Putin, a live broadcast by Channel One and Rossiya television channels. This event is also broadcast today by Rossiya 24 and the Public Television of Russia TV channels, and by Vesti FM, Mayak and Radio Rossii radio stations.

The anchors here in the studio today are Kirill Kleimyonov and myself, Andrei Kondrashov. Our colleagues in the call centre are Natalya Yuryeva and Tatyana Remezova.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Good afternoon. This is the first Direct Line since President Vladimir Putin’s inauguration. This programme is hugely popular. As of now, we have received around two million questions from the public.

Of course, some of the issues come up year after year. They include healthcare, housing and, of course, wages and pensions. There are also acute problems that are particularly pressing this year. Rising petrol prices is the main topic these days. All these issues will be discussed today. But, frankly speaking, we do not really want this Direct Line to become a book of complaints. Therefore, today we will also speak at length about Russia’s future and the goals for the next few years.

However, as we speak about current problems, of course, we hope to solve some of them, here in the studio.



Andrei Kondrashov:

As you may know, 2018 was declared the Year of Volunteering. That is why volunteers are helping us here today.

They represent dozens of charity organisations. Here they all are, young and enthusiastic. And because they are young, they will be interested in the contours of Russia’s future more than anything else.

What is the point of them being here in this studio? They have been working with us for the past ten days and, you know, they have already managed to solve some minor and even not so minor problems reported by the public. As is often the case, local officials shift their responsibility to the federal government. And these guys have been calling governors and forcing them to act the way they ought to. Therefore, today they are ready to tell a few stories like this to the President when he arrives.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Let me add that today, like in the early Direct Lines, we decided not to invite guests to the studio, and we did it specially to enable more questions to be asked by people who are out there on the spot.



Andrei Kondrashov:

And perhaps a more serious change. For the first time in the history of this programme, we have decided to use the same video links which the President uses sometimes, indeed, rather frequently, to communicate with the governors, federal ministers and deputy prime ministers. And all these people – regional heads, key federal ministers and deputy prime ministers – will be live in this studio today.







So, if need be, the President can invite any of these people to talk and if such conversations do take place, this would certainly be interesting.



Kirill Kleymenov:

And so, the President of Russia Vladimir Putin is on the air.



Natalya Yuryeva:

Good afternoon, Mr President.



Tatyana Remezova:

Good afternoon.



Natalya Yuryeva:

This is our traditional message processing centre, it has been working for more than ten days already.These are the telephone operators and here are the volunteers, this is something new that we did not have before.



Volunteers:

Good afternoon.



President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Hello and thank you very much.



Volunteer (Passes a document to the President.):

This is one of the most frequently asked questions, take a look at it during the Direct Line if you get a chance.



Vladimir Putin:

OK. A question about fish, important.



Tatyana Remezova:

Good afternoon. We are working in the call centre that is receiving questions for the Direct Line. I think right now the number of calls has just gone over two million. You can submit your questions to Vladimir Putin right now. The telephone number has not changed: 8 (800) 200 4040. You can also use 04040 for SMS and MMS messages. If you want to watch the broadcast with sign interpretation, please tune in to the Public Television of Russia or go to our website.



Natalya Yuryeva:

Not only do our phones never stop ringing but the internet is also buzzing with activity. We have already received almost 270,000 online messages and another 53,000 via the programme’s official accounts on Vkontakte and Odnoklassniki. We have received over 20,000 video messages and people continue to fire their questions.

Let me remind you that for your video question to feature in the programme, you need to install a special mobile app called Москва –Путину (Moskva-Putinu), sign up and either record a video or make a video call, whichever you prefer. Just like last year, you can also use the OK Live service to watch us live and wait for your opportunity to have a direct video link with the President. So, make a call, we are accepting questions until the end of the programme. Perhaps, it will be your question that Vladimir Putin answers.



Tatyana Remezova:

We are also monitoring discussions on social media. Thanks to the SN Wall communications platform, here on this screen you can see how users respond to the programme in real time.

Over the past few days and this morning, almost 340,000 comments have been posted on Odnoklassniki, Vkontakte, Facebook and Instagram using hashtag #DirectLine. This is the most popular hashtag but people also use #QuestionForPutin, #PutinLine and #WatchingPutin.

We will also closely monitor responses to the programme while it is broadcast.



Kirill Kleymenov:

We are all ready. Shall we start?



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, please.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr President, during the Direct Line two years ago you were asked whether we were passing through a black or a white streak. You replied, it is a grey streak. How would you answer the same question today?



Vladimir Putin:

A predictable question, of course, because in this case we are talking about the outcome of our work last year. I have brought along the statistics for last year and the trends in the first quarter of 2018. If we use such categories – “white,” “black,” or “grey” – to indicate what streak we are in today, we are moving towards a solid “white colour.”

Of course, nothing in nature is absolutely white. Look at the Arctic and the Antarctic. They seem to be absolutely white, white wilderness, and yet even there is a sprinkling of grey and black spots. It is the same here. But on the whole, we are moving in the absolutely right direction.







What gives us grounds for thinking this? First, we have reached a trajectory of sustainable economic growth. Granted, it is as yet modest growth, as I have said before, but still, this is not decline but growth, 1.5 percent last year. Industry is growing, agriculture is growing steadily. And it is a steady trend.

What else gives us grounds for saying that we are moving in the right direction? Inflation is at an all-time low. This is an important prerequisite for further growth. All this is happening against the background of an even faster growth in direct investment: 4.4 percent during the past year. This is a very good indicator. It shows that growth is guaranteed, secured in the near term.

We have a good trade surplus. They give me various figures, some say 130 billion last year, others say 120 billion. We discussed it with the colleagues yesterday and the final figure is 115 billion. But even that is a very high figure.

At the same time, we have very low foreign debt, less than 20 percent, and the Central Bank gold and currency reserves are increasing (before, they stood at under 400 billion, today they are 450 billion or thereabouts). All this shows that we have good stable conditions for economic development.

Finally, one of the key indicators: life expectancy continues to increase, that is number one. And number two, we have achieved steady growth in incomes. Wages have risen, real incomes have risen by 3.8 percent. Again, experts cite various figures.

If the additional five thousand rubles paid to pensioners at the end of last year are subtracted it makes exactly 3.8 percent. I have to make it clear from the start: this does not mean that every individual feels the difference, but on the whole the statistics are absolutely objective, this is real, this is true.

We are exporting machinery and equipment, and these exports are growing substantially, which suggests certain structural changes in the economy. I have already noted with satisfaction that the export of agricultural produce is growing. Look, it reached 20 billion the year before last, and it was a pleasure that it exceeded the export of arms.

We exported armaments worth 15 billion, agricultural goods – 20 billion, now 23, and there will be even more this year. That is, we can state with confidence that we are moving in the direction of this ‘white zone.’ But there are still quite a few problems of course.



Kirill Kleymenov:

The export of machinery and equipment that you mentioned, Mr President, shows growth despite the sanctions.



Vladimir Putin:

This is not about sanctions. Let me see if I have forgotten anything. I think I have mentioned the main points. There are other good indicators, but what I said is probably enough.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Mr President, we have been living with the new Government for more than three weeks now. Initially, there was a lot of debate about the Cabinet appointments, and passions are still running high about the nominations, from the prime minister to the old and new ministers.

Some say, stability and experience are precisely the new Government’s competitive advantages. Others say this is not the Government that can make the breakthrough you talked about in your Address. What do you think?



Vladimir Putin:

I see these debates and, in fact, I had no doubt that they would arise. It is good that we have discussions on almost every issue, on all administrative decisions, every economic and social policy move. This is a good thing.

Here is what I think, and I believe many will agree with me. You see, the thing is that the development plan we need to implement, the one we have been talking about over the past few years, was drafted by the previous Government. They have been working on it for at least 18 months.

I know perfectly well that if we reshuffled 100% of the Government and appointed totally new people, even if they were perfect administrators and well-trained professionals, they would need at least two years to either formulate existing goals or develop new ones. We would lose at least two years. We do not have these two years.







Therefore, I made a decision that the Government should be significantly renewed by bringing in “fresh” people, if you would allow me to use this term, but well-trained and who have proven themselves in major and important spheres.

We also had to keep those who have been preparing solutions for the groundbreaking development of our country, to personify the responsibility for what has been done so far and what is planned for the near future. I think that we have the ideal Cabinet for today.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr President, let us talk about what the Government will need to do in the near future. You have set very serious strategic goals for the country in the May Executive Order you signed after assuming office.

These goals include reducing the number of people living in poverty, improving the demographic indicators and increasing life expectancy to 80 years by a specific deadline. The ambitious economic goals include increasing real incomes and becoming one of the world’s top five economies.

But the question is whether the Government has real instruments for attaining these goals.



Vladimir Putin:

First of all, we have a clear understanding of what we need to do and how to achieve these goals. These goals have been set out in my Address to the Federal Assembly and in the draft development plan, which the Government should adopt this autumn.

You see, even though we have preserved the core figures in the Government, we will still need to formulate our proposals and solutions within the next few months. As it is, only a new Government can do what we have been discussing for the past 18 months. This is the first thing we need to do.

Second, we must adopt a full-scale programme-based approach. We have used this principle in individual industries and spheres. We must now apply it everywhere. The programme-based approach has proved effective and we have accumulated the experience of applying it in practice. This is the first thing.

Second – or is it third? We must introduce personal accountability. This issue also concerns the new Government line-up, because many of those who will be implementing these tasks have kept their seats. The new people in the Government also have the ability to deal with this issue. There must be strong personal accountability. We have no time to waste, as I said.

And third, we must ensure funding. The figures have been made public. After making rough estimates based on the belief that we can spend 17 billion rubles on this in the next six years, we have come to the conclusion that we need another 8 trillion rubles, at least, to attain the goals you have mentioned.

Overall, we know where to get this kind of money. We must above all boost economic growth, which is the main source of additional funds, use the available resources more efficiently and adjust our macroeconomic plans, as well as our taxation policy, bearing in mind that the taxation policy the Government must adopt soon needs to stay intact for the next six years. This is the most important thing for those active in economic affairs.



Kirill Kleymenov:

That is 17 plus 8 adds up to 25 trillion, right?



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, 25 trillion rubles exactly.



Andrei Kondrashov:

There are a lot of questions about taxes. People ask, for example, whether a sales tax will be introduced and whether the income tax for individuals will be raised above the usual 13 percent. A question from Voronezh: why raise taxes only to spend that money to shore up the tumbling standard of living. Will there be a tax hike?



Vladimir Putin:

Indeed, as I said, we are talking about an extra eight trillion roubles, which will not come of thin air. I have already said where we can get the funds, I am not going to repeat it.

One of the sources is tweaking the tax system. What you have mentioned just now, the income tax on individual taxpayers, or the sales tax, it was also discussed by the Government and at the level of experts.







Many, including opposition parties represented in parliament, propose changing the income tax. We thought about it for a long time. At first glance, a differentiated scale of income tax appears to be more socially fair, that is, those who have a higher income should pay more taxes.

Practice, though, is more complicated than theoretical formulas. What does the practice of differentiated tax on the incomes of individuals in the former years show?



Andrei Kondrashov:

People concealed their incomes.



Vladimir Putin:

Exactly. As soon as it is introduced, some citizens who have higher incomes start using various methods to hide their incomes. Additional payments begin to be made under the table and so on.

In other words, the fiscal result is close to zero, but there is a lot of noise and the investment climate worsens visibly, so it was decided that it was impracticable.

As for the sales tax – this was also discussed and many of our experts came out for introducing this tax. Firstly, we used to have such a tax, called the turnover tax. It was a heavy burden on the economy as a whole and it is a heavy burden ultimately on the citizens, because it inevitably spurs inflation.

All this convinced us that introducing this norm is not expedient either. Other proposals are being considered by the Government and are to be adopted. Without getting ahead of ourselves, let us wait until these decisions are made, they should be made very soon.

Regarding the burden on citizens that may increase poverty. Our target is to cut poverty by half. We have talked about it more than once, indeed, between 2000 and 2007 and 2008 the number of people living below the poverty line dropped by half.

That figure moved somewhat in the negative direction during the complicated economic situation in 2008–2012. But now, as I said, wages have grown at the rate of 9.8 or 9.6 percent and real incomes have grown by 3.8 percent.

We are moving in this direction and we are set to solve one of the key tasks – reducing the number of people living below the poverty line. The redistribution within the tax and budget system is aimed not at increasing the number of people who live below the poverty line, but on the contrary, at reducing it.

We are talking about certain manoeuvres in the tax and fiscal sphere to direct part of these resources to solving this task, reducing the number of people in our country who live below the poverty line, create conditions under which the state will be able to render assistance to those who need it, in other words, to target it better. If we follow that course, there will be no worsening of the situation and we will most probably achieve a positive result.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Let us go back to the economy. As I said at the very beginning of the programme, the petrol price hike is one of the most urgent topics today. Our programme gets a great many of calls and messages about that.

My colleague Tatyana Remezova is continuing her work in the call centre.



Tatyana Remezova:

Thank you, Kirill.

Petrol is indeed breaking records not only regarding prices, which are changing daily, but also in terms of the number of questions sent to our call centre. For example, the price of petrol in Achinsk, Krasnoyarsk Territory, went up by six rubles in a week and a half. According to a message from Tatarstan, it was 39 yesterday, 41 today. AI-95 gasoline in Anadyr is 55 rubles per litre. The Ulyanovsk Region residents have launched “A petrol-free month” campaign. Meanwhile, others ask: Isn’t it time for people to sell their cars? Alexei Karavayev from St Petersburg has sent us his video question.



Alexei Karavayev:

Good afternoon, Mr President. I am Alexei Karavayev from St Petersburg.







Will you please tell us how long petrol prices will go on rising. Diesel fuel is 45 rubles per litre – how long can we tolerate this? It is just impossible, stop it, one way or another. We made such a momentous choice on March 18, the whole country voted for you but you are failing to curb petrol prices.



Vladimir Putin:

Alexei, thank you for your question.

I think you must have noticed that the Government has already made a number of decisions aimed at solving this problem.

I agree with you that what is happening now is unacceptable, it is wrong. But we have to admit that this is the outcome of the incorrect, to put it mildly, regulation that has been introduced recently in the field of energy, in the sphere of energy resources. What happened? While managing the budget, the Government revised some taxation measures, made a so-called manoeuvre in this area.

What was it all about and what was done? I am not going to go into details or specifics but it ultimately led to boosting exports of crude oil. What happened next? Oil prices went up in the global market. To supply crude oil to their refineries, our companies do that, but they calculate the lost profit for the volume of oil sent to refineries, which they could have otherwise sold on the international market and gotten a big income. To make up for these alleged shortfalls in revenue they raise petrol and diesel fuel prices.

The Government has already taken a number of steps in this regard. Let me remind you that something was achieved quite recently in a dialogue with our leading oil and gas companies. So what has been done? First, excise duties were lowered by 3,000 rubles on petrol and 2,000 rubles on diesel fuel. A previous decision to further increase excise duties as of July 1 was cancelled, it will not happen. By autumn this year, further measures will have been taken to stabilise the market situation. I proceed from the fact that the Government will be strictly monitoring this, and the Federal Anti-Monopoly Service will enforce necessary decisions rather than turning a blind eye to developments.

To get an expert opinion from people directly responsible for this, let’s hear from the Russian Energy Minister.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Right now, he is available.



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, I know, our anchors have already announced that we are working in a different mode today, in a new format. I have asked my colleagues from the Government, from the regions to be available, to be in their offices during the Direct Line.

We can call Alexander Novak and ask him to comment on what I have just said.



Kirill Kleimyonov:

Let us do it.



Andrei Kondrashov:

We are calling the Energy Minister. Please.



Minister of Energy Alexander Novak:

Mr President, good afternoon.

Allow me to report on the current situation. Indeed, in May we recorded a rise in fuel prices of an average 5.6 percent against April. This is indeed above the level of inflation. If we take January-April, prices at petrol stations were growing no faster than inflation. Therefore, in May we first observed a real price increase, according to the Federal State Statistics Service. Now, the price rise has been stopped. The Government in May promptly adopted a number of measures aimed at stabilising prices in the wholesale market and at petrol stations. You have already said this. We reduced excise tax on diesel fuel and petrol from June 1, and this measure has been working since June 1, and we agreed not to raise excise taxes on petroleum products from July 1.

These urgent fiscal measures have certainly had a positive impact. We can see that prices at petrol stations have not gone up since May 30, since the end of May. In addition, agreements were reached with all oil companies at Government level to stabilise prices at petrol stations, and to increase the output of petroleum products and their supply to the domestic market to prevent a deficit.

I would like to report that today there is a sufficient amount of fuel in the domestic market to meet domestic needs and to take farmers through the sowing period, and there is no shortage.







Mr President,

We in the Government have worked out a number of additional measures that could help stabilise the market in the event of any price deviations. We are talking about the possibility of imposing an export duty on petroleum products. An appropriate draft law has been prepared, which we are ready to submit to the State Duma.

We would like you to support it. This would be an additional factor to curb price rises in the domestic market.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Thank you, Mr Novak.



Vladimir Putin:

It is not just an incentive. Rather, it is a warning to the oil companies. I hope that we will not have to resort to anything like that. We have always had a constructive dialogue with the oil companies and with the gas companies. What is good is that there is understanding on their part, understanding that the problem cannot be driven into a corner, that it needs to be addressed – this is very good.

By the way, I see Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Kozak on our screens now. I know – he reported the situation to me yesterday: yesterday, he met with our leading oil companies, with their heads. Let us give him the floor, let us listen to what they agreed upon yesterday.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Mr President, while we are connecting with Mr Kozak, let us show you a joke. It is about how you would fill up today your yellow Lada Kalina that you once drove across Russia.



Vladimir Putin:

Let us see.



Andrei Kondrashov:

This is the picture we have. It is a joke that went viral on the Internet.

And here is Mr Kozak.



Vladimir Putin:

Yes. Please, Mr Kozak.

The Lada Kalina is already being discontinued as other models are going into production. But it was a good car.



Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Kozak:

Indeed, on May 30, we agreed with the oil companies to freeze prices. The Government took reciprocal steps: that is precisely what the Government's mission is – to flexibly respond to the situation in external and domestic markets.

Therefore, on May 30, together with the oil companies and key ministries, the Government adopted the necessary decisions to lower the excise taxes, as you already said, within the existing parameters.

The reciprocal proposals by the oil companies consisted in stabilising fuel prices at filling stations. We agreed that we will control, that we will monitor the situation at the filling stations daily and that the Federal Anti-Monopoly Service will update the Government on a daily basis during the week.

As of yesterday, all companies are generally delivering on their commitments. Yesterday, we additionally agreed to increase supplies of petrol and diesel fuel to the domestic market. Over this week, trade in diesel fuel on the exchange has already increased by 20 percent and in motor petrol – by 19 percent.

This is also having a stabilising effect on the market. Overall, as the Energy Minister said, except for some firms with a small trade volume, oil companies are delivering on their commitments.

Regarding Mr Novak’s words about a threat – and you were right in saying that failure to implement the agreements posed a threat – the Government will literally tomorrow submit to the State Duma a draft law, which is expected to serve as a restraint in order to bring down the so-called export netback and ensure a balance between internal and export motor fuel prices. The law, if enacted, will allow the Government to raise export duty on motor fuel, bringing it practically to the level of export duty on crude oil.

This was also met with understanding by oil companies. The Government will be able to address this kind of threat, as it will have an additional tool to respond to the situation in the domestic and export markets. However, we hope we will not have to use it.

Should such a situation develop, depending on how well oil companies meet their obligations and what world oil prices are, the Government will be able to quickly take the necessary decisions. I am sure that this move will lead to a stabilisation of oil prices.







Andrei Kondrashov:

Thank you very much, Mr Kozak. We will forward all questions and other messages we have received from our citizens regarding growing fuel prices, directly to Mr Kozak and Mr Novak.



Vladimir Putin:

Please proceed with this draft law; I will support it.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr President, there is a subject we must take up at the beginning of this programme. The World Cup will begin in Russia in exactly one week. It is an event we have all been looking forward to and preparing for a long time.

The national teams are already arriving. The Iranian team has arrived and settled in the assigned premises, and the Spanish and Panamanian teams are expected in Krasnodar and Saransk today. I know that they have prepared a landmark welcome ceremony.

We can move to the huge FIFA fan zone in Moscow, on Vorobyovy Gory, from which you get an amazing view of Moscow and the Luzhniki Stadium, which has been renovated for the World Cup.

I am giving the floor to my colleague, Anton Vernitsky.



Anton Vernitsky:

The vista point on Vorobyovy Gory offers a full view of Moscow and, most importantly, the Luzhniki Stadium, where the World Cup will begin in a week with an opening game between Russia and Saudi Arabia.

Luzhniki is one of the 12 stadiums that have been built for the games. This is because Luzhniki, although it has not changed on the outside, has been thoroughly overhauled to become one of the world’s best football arenas. Today we invited to this meeting those who are closely associated with football.

Valery Gazzayev won the UEFA Cup with CSKA Moscow and is now one of the most renowned coaches in Russia. Mr President, you talked with him about football last year.

Yevgeny Lovchev is now our colleague, a sports expert and journalist, but he was once a famous player with Spartak Moscow. And lastly, we have with us Yury Semin, the chief coach of Lokomotiv Moscow, which won the Russian Premier League this year. This impressive group of football personalities is ready to speak about the world’s most popular game and its future.

We discussed this issue before we were given the floor. We talked about the Russian team’s chances considering that its performance has not been impressive during the friendly matches. We have decided that it depends on the World Cup, which will begin in a few days.

We also talked about the new stadiums, which are really big and beautiful and have been built in many cities. But do we have enough good football teams to attract people to these stadiums. What will happen to these stadiums? Take Luzhniki, which you can see behind us. It hosted the opening ceremony of the [1980 Summer] Olympics and athletic world championships, but now it is purely a football stadium. What will track and field athletes do now? There are many other questions.

The first question is from Valery Gazzayev.



Valery Gazzayev:

Thank you.

Good afternoon, Mr President.



Vladimir Putin:

Good afternoon.



Valery Gazzayev:

During last year’s Direct Line, you asked me about the quality and the future of our football. I considered your question a direct instruction to work in this area. My colleagues and I have watched almost all world football tournaments, all the best world and European championships. We also developed a programme to reform Russian football and the national tournament in order to involve all Russian regions in children’s, youth, professional and amateur football, and, of course, we will also use the legacy of the 2018 World Cup. I would also like to say that we are making use of the legacy of the 2014 Olympics as well. We are ready to present to you our programme and to tell you about it in detail.







As for our question: naturally, all our colleagues and the entire football community understand how busy you are today and how difficult the current foreign political situation is. Therefore, we would like to ask you to keep football in the centre of your personal attention. You are a winner by nature.

Thank you for letting us celebrate and host the World Cup. We have received spectacular, amazing, one-of-a-kind sports facilities. And, of course, this infrastructure will be the foundation of our future impressive results.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr Gazzayev, what is your question?



Valery Gazzayev:

I would like to wish you good health, Mr President.



Anton Vernitsky:

But what is your question?



Valery Gazzayev:

My request is that football should be a focus of your attention, Mr President. I am very pleased that it is so. I would like to wish you good health, Mr President. May God protect you, St George assist you in all endeavours and St Nicholas the Wonderworker give you health and luck.

Thank you.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr President, do not abandon our football.



Vladimir Putin:

Now, I take it the question was about the so-called legacy, right?



Kirill Kleymenov:

It was mentioned, yes.



Vladimir Putin:

What are we going to do with these grandiose facilities after the Word Cup?

You are absolutely right. We have managed to solve a very difficult task, the kind of task no other countries that hosted Olympic Games had managed to solve as effectively. The infrastructure in Sochi (practically all of it) is in use, and what is more, it is in use all year round. Both clusters, the Coastal and the Mountain one, are in use. And that is definitely a success.

Regarding the football infrastructure, the 11 stadiums. Of course, we have spent a lot of money on them and – I absolutely agree with you there – all this infrastructure should be utilised, above all for the development of sport. I mean amateur sport, children’s sport, we should create children’s and youth teams and leagues and organise competitions. All these facilities should pay their way and work effectively.

All this is possible given a competent approach. As you know well, a modern stadium is not just the football pitch; there is a huge number of spaces inside the stadiums where you can put anything you like. And they do put in anything they like, in the good sense of the word, of course. There are retail centres and fairs, cafes and restaurants.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Sports clubs.



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, of course. Not just sports clubs, but (most importantly) special areas for fitness and sports. A lot would depend on the heads of the Russian regions because once the World Cup is over the organising committee will hand all this over to the regions.

I would like to appeal to my colleagues in the regions. We must not allow marketplaces to spring up at these venues, as it happened at sports facilities in Moscow in the mid-1990s. Such a development and such use of these wonderful facilities must not be allowed.

And I think the Russian Football Union, the RFU, should be actively involved so that these facilities are used effectively to host big, interesting matches, so that it would make it necessary to create new, interesting, strong and promising teams.

So that at long last we could raise a new generation of athletes and football players domestically. Let us face it, although our team has not been making a brilliant showing recently we have a huge number, millions of fans of this beautiful sport.

Incidentally, I remember my conversation with the coach of our national judo team on the eve of the London Olympics after a somewhat lacklustre performance of our team at the Europe and world championships, and the coach, Ezio Gamba, told me: our main event is the Olympic Games.

He was right because our judo team performed better than any other team, even that of Japan, had ever performed in the whole Olympic history. Let us hope that our football team will spring a surprise at the upcoming championship and give of its best.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Of course, we have faith in our team and support it. We may be able to discuss this topic some more during the course of this programme. In the meantime let us touch upon some other questions as well.



Andrei Kondrashov:

And before this, a question our studio has received from social network users. By the way, this is not the only question, in fact, we have dozens: “Russia has a tradition: after the inauguration, the head of state announces pardons. Will this tradition continue?”

And another question: “It would be good to pardon those who are in prison for the first time for committing a minor offence. Will this remain a tradition?”



Vladimir Putin:

What does the question say, “There is a tradition”?



Andrei Kondrashov:

Yes. “There is a tradition: after the inauguration, the head of state announces pardons.”



Vladimir Putin:

Honestly, I do not know anything about this tradition. I do not think Russia has it.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Maybe they mean a European tradition, or an American one.







Vladimir Putin:

But it says, “We have a tradition.” These are the words, “Russia has a tradition.”



Andrei Kondrashov:

Yes, indeed. “Russia has a tradition.” Maybe if Russia does not, it will start this tradition?



Vladimir Putin:

First, Russia does not have such a tradition. Second, it is not the President, but the Parliament – the State Duma – who announces pardons. We do this from time to time; I have supported these initiatives.

They must be well prepared and come from certain domestic calls and reasons, not external ones, even if they are as important as the presidential election.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Let us give the floor to the call centre. Natalya Yuryeva, please.



Natalya Yuryeva:

Thank you, Andrei.

Let us give people using social networks and mobile devices a chance to ask Vladimir Putin a question. Right now 7,000 people in the Moskva-Putinu [Москва-Путину] mobile app are waiting for their chance to talk to the President. Let us give one of them a chance.

Good afternoon! Hello, you are on. Please tell us your name, where you are from, and ask your question.



Natalya Zhurova:

Good afternoon, Mr President. I am Natalya Zhurova from Tomsk.

I have three children. My question has to do with the allocation of free land to large families. This law does not work very well in our region.

As far as I know, in 2011, President Dmitry Medvedev signed a law on free land, the allocation of plots to large families. In 2015, this law became void, as far as I know.

At present, regional authorities are responsible for allocating free land to large families. In 2010, I signed up and was placed on the waiting list. I was number 735 at the time. This year, I have moved up half the list to 300 something.

Mr President, my question is this. How much longer will I have to wait – eight years or maybe ten – with three children, two of them boys? You see, we want to teach them, to show them how to work, we want each one of them to grow up to be someone and to love the Russian soil.

I am saying this on behalf of many families, parents raising large families: we would certainly like to live and work on our Russian land. I know there is a lot of abandoned land, but there are people who want to revive it and to live there. I am 42 years old, and if have to wait another ten years, I will be 52–53.

I mean, I understand that time goes by, but I want to live and bring up my children on this land while I am still young. Mr President, I think you understood my question. If this law actually works at the regional level, it would be good if it helped people, especially those with many children.

There is something else I wanted to say. When I went to our regional authorities, I was told that I should get on the waiting list, that is, I have no right to get land now, because in our region, it only goes to families with four children or more. And with three children, you have to wait in line. But, as I know this law, I think that the regional government is most likely violating it.



Vladimir Putin:

Thank you for your question.



Natalya Zhurova:

Thank you. I am very glad to see you and talk to you.



Vladimir Putin:

Thank you, Ms Zhurova. This also sounds somewhat strange to me, indeed, that to get land, you need to have at least four children. The fact that there are three in your family is wonderful; it is our policy to ensure that families have at least three. This is my first point.

Secondly, we should incentivise families like yours.

The third point is about the land. Well, there is a lot of land in Russia, so it is not that; the question is that it should be suitable for use, including for housing construction. And this means that it must be close to infrastructure or the infrastructure should be built first. This, of course, requires certain costs, it goes without saying. These are the main, the most substantial costs.

You are from Tomsk, aren’t you?



Natalya Zhurova:

Yes, I am from Tomsk, from the city of Tomsk, the region’s capital.







Vladimir Putin:

Tomsk, or rather Tomsk Region is developing very well in a sustainable manner, and is self-sufficient in terms of resources. The issue is to set the spending priorities, including with regard to budgetary allocations.

Let us hear from Governor Zhvachkin. Is he with us today?



Andrei Kondrashov:

We will ask our editors to get in touch with the Tomsk Governor.



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, please.



Tomsk Governor Sergei Zhvachkin:

Good afternoon, Mr President.



Vladimir Putin:

Good afternoon.



Sergei Zhvachkin:

I would like to thank you for answering part of the question. You said correctly that we have a special programme regarding this, alongside other programmes on the allocation of housing and other incentives for large families. She said she had moved up the waiting list from 700th to 300th place. I definitely need to talk with her. It looks as if officials have failed to inform her of her rights. We will definitely settle her problem soon, and I will meet with her and subsequently update you on progress in her case, Mr President.

You said correctly that the problem in Siberia is that we have a vast territory, but we cannot allocate land plots without utility lines. Therefore, we currently allocate only land plots with the appropriate infrastructure to large families. I will meet with her personally and subsequently report to you, Mr President.



Kirill Kleimenov:

But is there a directive under which land is only allocated to families with four children?



Vladimir Putin:

No, this is the local officials’ interpretation. Here is what I would like to say. It is not “her” or “she.” It is “Mrs Zhurova.” This is the first thing.

Second, you said that some officials seem to misunderstand. We must know which officials these are, and they must not be guided by any formal considerations but try to act in the interests of the people who live on the territory these officials have been entrusted to manage. Of course, if there are instructions in your region that free land can only be issued to families with four children, you should take a closer look at them. Raising three children is a challenging task in modern conditions, and this family has three children, hence you should help these people. You should incentivise them and create conditions that would encourage other families to have more children. I ask you to settle this.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Let us hear another question from our television audience. Tatyana Remezova is also in the call centre.

Tatyana, please, you have the floor.



Tatyana Remezova:

Thank you very much, Andrei.

I would like to give the floor to our volunteers. They have been collecting calls for all 10 days of our call centre’s work. Moreover, they called back and talked with those who contacted the Direct Line.

Sitting next to me is Anatoly Parfenov, a volunteer of the Russian Student Rescuer Unit; Alexandra Nemerovskaya, who represents Moscow Volunteers and the Give Life foundation; Olga Nikitina, who moved to Moscow from the Primorye Territory; and Olya, a healthcare volunteer. They all have been taking calls from the Far East.

Anatoly, please.



Anatoly Parfenov:

Mr President, there are many calls from the Far East, and they all are very different.

The region has the same problems as everywhere else, but also those specific to the region, such as the Far Eastern hectare programme. One of the main problems with the Far Eastern hectare programme is that the land plots are very remote, so remote that it is impossible to get to them. People write that this is because all the good land plots were taken by officials. For example, Vitaly Grishchenko from the Khabarovsk Territory came from Moscow to receive a land plot 312 kilometres away from Khabarovsk. There also are cases when land plots are allocated in a preserved area, and it is difficult to receive the cadastral registration. There also are humorous incidents: for example, Olga Antonyuk from Vladivostok was only given half a hectare and told there was no more land.



Alexandra Nemerovskaya:

Yes, it is difficult for the hectare to catch on, but it is also quite difficult to stay in the Far East. The acute deficit of jobs is the region’s main problem. We have the example of Pyotr Litvintsev from Komsomolsk-on-Amur. He is a laid-off aircraft engineer who has to – can you imagine this? – paint roofs. Speaking about where our specialists go. Unfortunately, this is why young people leave.



Olga Nikitina:

Yes, I can confirm Alexander’s words, because I am from the Primorye Territory. I like my region very much and would like to connect my future with it, but, unfortunately, I cannot see a way to do this yet. We, people of the Far East, do not feel like a part of Russia. We want to travel across our country, visit our relatives and relax at the Crimean and Krasnodar Territory’s resorts, but cannot do this because it is far too expensive to travel by plane or train even inside the region. Yes, there are subsidised tickets, but there are so few of them that they sell out in a matter of seconds.



Tatyana Remezova:

We have a phone call from Ussuriysk. By the way, that is where Olya is from.



Olga Nikitina:

Yes, that is where I am from.



Tatyana Remezova:

I am sure it is on the same topic. Let us take this call.







Alexei Grigoryev:

Good afternoon, Mr Putin. My name is Alexei Grigoryev.

I would like to ask you about the rise in the airfare on the Moscow-Vladivostok route this summer. My family (my wife and two kids) live in Moscow and I work in Ussuriysk, in Primorye Territory.

In June the price of economy class tickets from Moscow to Vladivostok rose from 55,000 rubles to 112,200. In other words, we have to spend about 150,000 rubles on one-way travel. Please consider this matter.



Vladimir Putin:

Let us start from where our caller left off, the increasing airfare from the Vladivostok area to other parts of the Russian Federation. One of the volunteers has already mentioned this.

By the way, I would like to address all volunteers, not only those who are on the line with us, and to thank them for the work they have done to prepare this Direct Line and generally all the volunteers who work for our country in various, very important areas. This is the first thing. (Applause.)

Number two. Regarding airfare from Vladivostok to other parts of Russia. One of the volunteers has just said that there are programmes that subsidise flights at certain periods during the year that target various age groups.

The first thing to be done of course is to expand the geography (it is gradually expanding) of these subsidies and extend the periods when these subsidies are effective, and extend them to more age groups. However, these are limited one-off solutions even though they are needed and can be implemented.

And finally, at the end of the day the main solution, perhaps in time for today’s event or maybe it was prepared in advance, but anyway a decision concerning the Far East was taken by the Government yesterday or the day before: the decision to introduce zero VAT on these flights. This is the first and very important, very substantial step towards reducing the price of these tickets. We will see how it pans out. This is the first thing.

Second, the labour market in the Far East. It is certainly a problem, as you have said. It is a great pity that an aircraft manufacturing engineer is painting roofs. A painter is a good profession, but that man’s qualifications are way above painting roofs.

What are we doing about this? I would like to point out that we are supporting the high-tech sectors that were created in the Far East over the past decade. One of them is aircraft manufacturing. In the past, only combat aircraft were manufactured in the Far East, but now we are also developing civilian production there.

For example, the SuperJet 100 is a civilian aircraft that is based on our aircraft manufacturing competencies, including those used to build combat planes. But we manufacture this plane based on modern achievements and foreign technology and competencies, and in cooperation with our Italian and French colleagues. The French worked on the plane’s engines.

In other words, we will continue to develop aircraft manufacturing in the Far East along with shipbuilding, which we are reviving there. Take the Zvezda Shipyard, where major projects are progressing and where specialised vessels will be built, including very large ships that have never been built in Russia before.

We will also develop the space industry in the Far East. There is a reason the Vostochny Space Launch Centre was built in the Far East and not somewhere else in the country. These competencies – high-tech sectors, including auto manufacturing – will be further developed.

You know that we have taken a big step in science and education. In fact, although we created a new university based on existing schools, Far Eastern Federal University is unique for the Russian Far East in terms of quality and scale. These are large and long-term projects, but we will continue to move in this direction.

As for the Far Eastern hectare, the programme is effective despite its drawbacks. Thank you for drawing our attention to them. I hope it is not true that officials have taken the land plots. But we will review the situation again, although we have done this many times before.

Judging by the number of questions regarding this, the programme is popular, and people readily take these plots. You know that we have decided that land plots should be allocated not only to residents of the Far East but also to anyone who is willing to move and settle in the region. We will continue to improve this programme. I will definitely pay attention to this.

Thank you very much.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr Putin, this year there are more questions about Russia’s relations with the West. And I must note that anxiety in these messages and questions is mingled with discontent.

I will quote a typical message: “It seems that Russia is to blame for everything. The sanctions have become the main way of communicating with us. What can be done when they are not even willing to listen to our reasoning? And most importantly, there is a feeling that our arguments will not be heard at all, not ever.”







Vladimir Putin:

I am following what pops up on our left and right. One of the questions that appeared on the interactive screens: “The accusations against Russia are endless. How long will this continue?” This is similar to what you just asked.

What can I say? I have spoken about this more than once; I can only repeat myself. As you see, this is another way of restraining Russia, just as the notorious sanctions are, because these endless accusations give them reason to apply restraining measures, as those who resort to such methods in dealing with Russia and restraining Russia's development think. Why are they doing this? Because they see Russia as a threat, they see that Russia is becoming a rival to them.

I can only say that this is an erroneous policy; it is always preferable to establish constructive interaction rather than try to restrain someone, Russia included, and the overall effect for the world economy would be exceptionally positive, and for the overwhelming majority of those in international communication.

Our partners are finally coming to this understanding. You can see what is happening in many countries. Even at the political level, everyone talks about the need to build normal relations. Yes, each country has its own interests, but they should not be attained through selfish political strategies, including those in the economy. This understanding is coming to many of our partners. I hope this process will gain momentum.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr Putin, and still, when do you think this period of decline in our relations with the West will end? Because during Russia’s long history, we have had other periods of conflict with the Western countries, and very short stretches, when these relations reached a positive level. What is your estimate?



Vladimir Putin:

You know, I cannot give you a specific date, but I can tell you the conditions under which this could happen.

It is obvious for us, for Russia, that we must protect our interests. We must do this consistently, not rudely or arrogantly, but we have to protect our interests in the economic and security spheres. We have done this and we will continue to do it. But we are always searching for compromise, we are ready to compromise.

All this pressure will end when our partners realize that the methods they are using are ineffective, are counterproductive, harmful to everyone and that they will have to deal with the interests of the Russian Federation.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57692
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 12th, 2018 #849
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Direct Line with Vladimir Putin - PART II



June 7, 2018 - 16:30 - Moscow




Andrei Kondrashov:

We have a SMS message on the subject “Will there be a World War Three?”



Vladimir Putin:

You know, if you remember what Einstein said. I think he said he did not know what weapons the Third World War will be fought with but the Fourth World War will be fought with stones and sticks. This means that World War Three could put an end to civilisation as we know it. Understanding this should prevent us from extreme and very dangerous actions in the international arena that could threaten modern civilisation.

Incidentally, since World War II we have lived in conditions of relative, again relative global peace. Regional wars continuously flare up here and there. It is enough to recall the war in Vietnam, the conflict on the Korean Peninsula, or the current conflicts in the Middle East – in Iraq and Libya. But there have been no global wars. Why? Because the leading military powers established strategic parity. And no matter how unpleasant this may sound, it is true: the fear of mutual destruction has always deterred international actors from sudden movements and made them respect each other.

The US withdrawal from the ABM Treaty was an attempt to break this strategic parity. But we are responding. I already said in my Address that the modern weapons systems that have been developed and will soon be adopted by the armed forces will undoubtedly maintain parity.

It is necessary to understand this, think about this and find modern forms of interaction that are in keeping with current realities. It is time to sit at the negotiating table and elaborate modern, adequate models of international, European security.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Here is question number 337 from our website. Alexei Ksendzov asks, or rather demands: “Mr President, please take some measures against Latvia. Why do they ban teaching in Russian language? Introduce some sanctions. Thank you.”



Vladimir Putin:

I have already said that the introduction of any unilateral sanctions just complicates problems rather than helps to resolve them.

As for the position of our compatriots in the Baltic countries we continue talking about this and drawing the attention of the Baltic authorities, including in Latvia, to this issue. It is hard to believe that hundreds of thousands of people have been declared non-citizens in a modern civilised society. Such a category does not even exist – it is not envisaged by international law. There are citizens, people with dual citizenship or without any, but the notion of “non-citizens” has never existed. It was invented in the Baltic countries to limit the legal rights of the people that live there.

But we must defend the interests of our compatriots in a way that does not make their situation worse. This is why we are in dialogue with our partners in the EU in the hope that eventually they will be ashamed that while they pay attention to human rights violations beyond the EU, they allow flagrant violations of human rights on EU territory. This is exactly the situation described by the saying: “Why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own?”

We will continue working persistently on this issue but so as not to harm those who live in these countries.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Let us give the floor to our TV audience. Tatyana Remezova continues taking phone calls and video questions.



Tatyana Remezova:

Thank you, Kirill.

In addition to governors and ministers, there are many other well-known figures in our audience: politicians, journalists and those who are commonly referred to as public opinion leaders. Now, we have Sergei Shargunov, a writer and a State Duma deputy, on the line.

Good afternoon, Sergei. You are on the air, you can ask your question.



Sergei Shargunov:

Good-afternoon, Mr President.



Vladimir Putin:

Good-afternoon.



Sergei Shargunov:

Russky Island in Primorye. A large literary forum is under way here. Though I am a Muscovite, I nevertheless came here to attend this forum.

Here is my question. It seems to me that Russia has always been, in spite of everything, in spite of any obstacles, a freethinking country. Freethinking and sharp polemics have always been important both for our social life and our art.







I have been receiving many worrying signals lately from various places, especially from the regions. Some performers zealously revert to the extreme, in a manner of speaking – this applies to certain web hosting services on social networks, likes and reposts. These are not direct calls for violence, which I categorically condemn, but often it is simply a matter of absurd and harsh judgements. You can disagree with them, by why prosecute?

Sometimes, it comes down to sheer idiocy. For example, some young patriotically minded people were put on trial on charges of setting up a utopian group for a referendum on the responsibility of the authorities in the country. One might wonder if this is really a crime. But no, here is “an extremist community,” I understand that neither you, nor I can interfere with judicial proceedings, but we can nonetheless make some judgements.

Sometimes, I get the impression that if Article 282 of the Criminal Code were interpreted literally, then zealots would posthumously convict Pushkin, Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky and Mayakovsky and rule to sensor their work. And then we get these newly-passed laws concerning the internet. To my mind, they are fairly vague. There is plenty of room for interpretation.

Would it not make sense to somehow stop those who rush full speed to raze other people's opinions? This is particularly worrying when it comes to people's destinies, especially young people, who, it seems, should not be scared off.



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, I agree with you. You mentioned literary classics. A character from a very popular play said, “I’d take all books and burn them up like that.”

We cannot take this path and we will never take this path. But judicial practice must be open to public scrutiny, which is extremely important, and adjusted if necessary to prevent excesses.

If the point at issue concerns extremist content, we must act in keeping with a general rule, just as in other spheres and areas of society, as I have said, this rule being that those that are guilty must be called to account. But we must first provide a definition for their actions before carrying the case to absurdity. I fully agree with you on that.

Let us analyse the problem within the framework of the Russian Popular Front. I will ask my colleagues to do this, since they have been effective in many other areas of concern to the country in the past.

On one hand, we must fight extremism, which is in the interests of the overwhelming majority of our people. Who would say “No” to putting an end to the [online] encouragement of suicide, especially among young people? Would anyone do this? Of course, not. Or take the popularisation of Nazi ideas. Nobody would protest putting an end to that. Yes, but we first must approve official definitions. We should involve the Supreme Court in this. I am confident and can assure you that people in our law enforcement and judicial agencies understand what they must do. If anything merits additional attention on our part, let us do it. Let’s focus on the problems you have mentioned.



Sergei Shargunov:

I will provide the names, if I may.



Vladimir Putin:

Thank you.



Andrei Kondrashov:

When replying to the previous question, you mentioned the United States’ withdrawal from the ABM Treaty on ballistic missile defence. Do you remember that you first drew public attention to this issue back in 2007 in Munich? You said then that the United States was spreading its national jurisdiction to other countries, which is very dangerous. The theme of your speech then was a multipolar versus a unipolar world.

Years have passed. Nobody listened to what you said then. And now the EU and Canada are facing a trade war with the United States. The Federal Chancellor of Germany and the President of France recently visited Russia. Of course, they are not saying this in public, but do they suggest behind closed doors that it is time to lift the sanctions against Russia? Or are they still waiting for permission from Washington?



Vladimir Putin:

This is not only about our one-on-one conversations, although they form a considerable part of the negotiating process with the leaders of France, Germany, with our Austrian friends – I have just been in Austria – and representatives of many other European countries, not to mention Asia. They are not just saying it in my ear, they are already saying it publicly.

A French Government Minister recently publicly said that the USA cannot be allowed to become the world’s economic policeman. He said it publicly. The former German Finance Minister publicly said a few months ago that the Federal Republic had never been a sovereign state in the full sense of the word since 1945.

Everybody sees, of course, what is happening. But apparently, our partners thought that they would never be affected by this counter-productive policy involving restrictions and sanctions. Now we see what is happening, because the introduction of tariffs on steel and aluminium from not only Europe, but also Canada and Mexico – this is sanctions, in fact. Only the words used are different, but in reality, this is the case. What are they being punished for? Did they “annex Crimea” as many of our partners say? No. This has to do with the pragmatic national interests of the United States, as its current leadership sees them.

Which brings us back to what I have already said, which is the need to work out common, uniformly understood and firm rules of conduct in the sphere of security and in the sphere of economic interaction. An awareness of this process is of course there. When I laid out my theses, if you will, in Munich in 2007, which have often been quoted in the years since, I incurred the anger of many of my colleagues who said it was too tough and inappropriate. But what was I speaking about? I said that the United States was spreading its jurisdiction beyond its national borders, and that this was unacceptable. This is exactly what is happening today, only it is happening to our European and other partners. Why is it happening? Because nobody wanted, as you said, to listen and nobody did anything to stem this trend. So there you are.



Andrei Kondrashov:

They asked for it.



Vladimir Putin:

Yes. “Dinner is served, enjoy…” as they said in a popular film, well, I will not quote it precisely because it sounds a bit rude, “enjoy your meal.”

But joking aside, what is important is that there is a growing awareness that it is necessary to sit down at the negotiating table and work out rules of behaviour acceptable to all, rules that will enable the world economy to develop effectively.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr President, I think London is competing with Washington in terms of anti-Russia rhetoric. At some point London even seemed to confidently occupy first place in this. First, the Brits tried to deprive us of the right to host the World Cup but failed. Then the Skripal case caused a huge outcry all over the world.

I will forward one question on this issue. It came from student Anastasia Fedosova: “What does the Skripal case mean for Russia and will we respond to the accusation?”



Vladimir Putin:

I have talked about this many times. I am not sure if I can add anything. If, as Britain claims, chemical weapons were used against these people, they would have died within several minutes on the spot. Thank God this did not happen. So this means we are dealing with something other than a chemical warfare agent. And we are eager to be granted an opportunity to have access to our citizens, Julia in this case, and take part in the investigation as a full participant. Without this it is difficult for us to comment on anything.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Mr President, to continue on the issue of the anti-Russia sanctions imposed by the Brits, let’s consider the Russian business people that have large assets in the West and are now in big trouble. To use our word, they have begun to be nightmarised. Roman Abramovich, for one, has faced serious problems. Is this a new episode in the soap opera “The Rich Also Cry?” Incidentally, some of our viewers have asked for your advice.







Vladimir Putin:

As for big Russian businessmen, I talked about this several years ago at a public meeting with representatives from business. True, it sounded pretty tough. I will not repeat word for word what I said then. It sounded but a bit rough –let’s put it that way.

But I warned them that developments like we are seeing today were possible. I advised our business leaders to keep their capital at home in Russia where it was made and use it to develop the Russian economy in order to ensure their financial security.

In 2008, when we had to deal with the infamous crisis in the world economy that originated outside our country, many of our large companies found themselves in dire straits because they had taken out a great number of loans from Western financial institutions and had to face margin calls.

Their collateral value dropped drastically and, according to their loan agreements, they had to either repay the loans immediately or add more collateral. Otherwise, they would lose their assets.

What did we do? We increased authorised capital for Vnesheconombank with a special law and took over their loans when many were ready to sell their companies for nothing. Prime Minister at the time, I said: “No, we will help you on certain terms. We will take over your loans and you will be able to pay them off later.” And that happened. When the economy stabilised, they repaid the debt and remained owners of their companies.

The Government reaped benefits because it took that action on certain terms. Overall, everything went well. But we did it, Russia did it, the Russian Government did that with regards to the assets of the companies it considered important for its national interests.

Who will help them abroad? If anything, they are being persecuted there. Conditions are being created for them that make it impossible to do business. This is also a big mistake of those who are doing it in the West. Because what will be the outcome of all these restrictions and persecution of our businesses?

For example, what will come of the complications with dollar transactions? It will undermine the trust of businesses, and not only ours. Everybody is watching what is going on. This is undermining trust in the economic policies of the leading world economies.

The dollar is a universal reserve currency today. The euro is trying to take over some of its functions and has succeeded in part. However, the dollar remains the only universal currency.

By restricting dollar transactions, the US Government undermines confidence in the dollar. Some fleeting results are possible, though still not guaranteed.

However, they think they can achieve positive results – political results, not economic, mind you. However, in the long term, these measures are undermining trust in this kind of politics.

So here we are. Everybody is thinking now about creating new and universal currencies. Everybody is thinking about doing transactions in national currencies. Essentially, they are biting the hand that feeds them. I believe it is counterproductive and damaging both for those involved and for the entire global economy. But I am certain this, too, shall pass.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Let us give the floor to our colleague, Natalya Yuryeva, who is working at the message processing centre.



Vladimir Putin:

By the way, sorry, I jotted down one of the questions. Some people think we should help Roman Abramovich and other Russian businessmen in this difficult situation, while others ask us when “these thieves” – they mention names – will bring their money back to Russia.

I would not talk now about those who break the law. We are talking about those who acquired their wealth legitimately. But both groups would live better in Russia, all the more so since we announced a capital amnesty twice, and we are doing this with the business community.

The system is imperfect and needs to be fine-tuned, which we are ready to do. I hope that members of our business community will respond accordingly.



Andrei Kondrashov:

They tell me we have a call from one more writer. This seems to be a good day for writers.

Natalya Yuryeva, take the floor.



Natalya Yuryeva:

Thank you, Andrei.

Our message processing centre has received a huge amount of questions about Ukraine over the past four years. They come from Russia, Ukraine and other neighbouring countries. But this time we received a question that our editors thought interesting, from a writer who has personal knowledge of the situation in Donbass. Let us watch a video we received from Zakhar Prilepin.



Zakhar Prilepin:

Good afternoon. My name is Zakhar Prilepin. I am an adviser to the head of the Donetsk People’s Republic and an officer in the Donetsk army. It seems to us here that the Ukrainian army will take advantage of the World Cup to launch an offensive. Can you comment on this situation?



Vladimir Putin:

I hope it will not reach the point of such provocations. And if this happens, I think it will have very serious consequences for Ukrainian statehood as a whole.

Once again, to emphasise, I expect that nothing like this will happen. It is impossible to intimidate people who live in these areas in Donbass, in the Lugansk People's Republic, in the Donetsk People's Republic. We see what is happening there, and see how people are enduring it all. We provide assistance to both unrecognised republics and will continue to do so. But what is happening with these territories in general is certainly sad.

On the other hand, this also suggests that the current Ukrainian leadership is unable to resolve this problem. How can they resolve it while at the same time considering these territories their own and organising a complete blockade of these territories? How is it possible to consider this territory and these people as your citizens and keep subjecting them to artillery attacks, causing civilians to suffer? Civilians suffer the most.

Now, the OSCE representatives have recorded an increase in these attacks by the Ukrainian forces. Why do this, when you just need to observe the Minsk Agreements? This is simply ridiculous considering the expected result – restoring the country’s territorial integrity. The longer and the further this goes the worse for Ukraine.

You know, sometimes it seems to me that the situation is deteriorating as Ukraine enters a new political cycle, including the upcoming Rada and presidential elections. I would like to stress this again: the current Ukrainian authorities, especially in these circumstances, are unable to resolve the LPR and DPR problem, partly because they do not need voters from these regions, because it is clear that they would never vote for the current government.

However, if the authorities are guided by their narrow political and economic interests, if they continue to rob their people and save their money in offshore accounts in case things go bad, noting good will ever come of it.







Let us see how the situation develops, and we will do our part to ensure that it is resolved within the framework of the Minsk process and the Minsk Agreements.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Let's move to Moscow City now. There are people there who wrote a day or two before Direct Line that they are popular bloggers who have a huge audience of tens of millions of people and that they were collecting questions from their subscribers and could forward the most popular ones. So we sent our correspondent Anton Lyadov to these bloggers, he is with us now.



Anton Lyadov:

Good afternoon everyone! Today, perhaps for the first time in Direct Line history, we are working with representatives from the youth internet community. We have bloggers gathered at a spectacular venue with a beautiful view of Moscow, watching Direct Line from the very beginning, and commenting. Some of them upload pictures, some shoot videos.

Each of them has their own channel, where they post videos filmed on their phones, but today they use professional equipment. The important thing is that their total audience is about 20 million people. Just think of that! A huge figure. Pay attention, they are doing live reporting on the internet right now. That’s how it works.

Shortly before Direct Line they asked their audiences what they would ask the President. They have come here today with these questions.

Next to me is a representative of the internet community Gusein Gasanov. His overall audience is about 7 million people. This is Natalya Krasnova. She is from Chelyabinsk. Her audience is about 2 million people. Hello! Go ahead please.



Gusein Gasanov:

Good afternoon, Mr President.

We have opinion leaders here today. I would like to ask a question. To share a concern. There are rumours on the internet about the planned shutdown of popular social networks such as Instagram and YouTube. What do you think about this? Is this a possibility?



Vladimir Putin:

I understand your concern and understand the concerns of those that you work with on the internet. We are not going to shut anything down. I am well aware of the situation with Telegram.

What can I say? You are in your place and you just said that you are concerned. And I'm concerned in my place too, do you know why? I am concerned for people’s security. Suppose law enforcement agencies and special services report to me after a bomb attack on the St Petersburg metro that they could not track the terrorists’ correspondence, that they could not make a decision in time because it is encrypted, and the terrorists use this. How am I supposed to react to this? After all, security comes first, does it not?

At the same time, I used to work in special services and I know that it is easy to ban something, but it is more difficult to find civilised solutions. So, I will encourage my colleagues to follow this path, the special services themselves and law enforcement agencies, to use modern investigation methods, to prevent terrorist attacks without limiting freedom, including on the internet.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Another question. Can you hear us?



Natalya Krasnova:

Good afternoon, Mr President. My name is Natasha Krasnova and I am from Chelyabinsk. I am 38 years old, and I consider myself a responsible adult. I have a PhD, but I currently work as a blogger, which is not a proper job in Russia. Will it someday become a proper job?



Vladimir Putin:

Natasha, you said that you are an adult, although you look much younger. Honestly, I am surprised that you are 38 years old. You said that blogging should one day become a proper job.

But we know how bloggers earn their living: by advertising, right? And you seem to be good at this. Whether the job gets recognition or not, it is still your source of income and, probably, a good one, if you do this.

So if your question is about a legislative solution to provide social security for the future, perhaps we can talk about this. In fact, I think you are right, because, if it is a regular job, the state is interested in formalising it accordingly.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Thank you, bloggers. Perhaps we will return to you today.

And now back to the call centre and Natalya Yuryeva.

Natalya, please.



Natalya Yuryeva:

Thank you.

We are monitoring the reaction of people in social media. As of this moment, the number of posts with Direct Line’s hashtags has hit 550,000 and even higher. The most active users are in Moscow, followed by – we will see this in a moment – St Petersburg, my home city, and Tatarstan. We received another 918 messages while I was speaking.

I suggest taking a video call from… No, I am told that we have the latest post we can see now. It came through just now. The text says, “Without Putin, the problem with growing petroleum prices probably will not be resolved. Noting how much time it will take for 92nd to cost less than 45 roubles.” This is from Pyotr Shumatov.

And now I suggest taking an online video call.

Hello. Please, introduce yourself – tell us your name and where you are from, and ask your question.



Vladislav Khristolyubov:

Good afternoon, Mr President.



Vladimir Putin:

Good afternoon.



Vladislav Khristolyubov:

Vladislav Khristolyubov, a lawyer from St Petersburg.

Everyone knows that Russia was one of two world powers with the technology to launch reusable spacecraft. We succeeded in launching the unique spacecraft Buran into orbit and safely landing it. In my opinion, energy and especially space are among the most important sectors for any economy. Therefore, if I had the opportunity to give all my strength to this common cause – to the maintenance and, most importantly, development of these industries – I would, without hesitation.

In this regard, I have a question. Is it possible to revive the space shuttle technology? And what are Russia’s general plans for expanding its presence in space? Thanks.



Vladimir Putin:

Vladislav, you are certainly right. The development of outer space and space technologies is extremely important for any country, and even more so for our country, which has significant, maybe even unique competencies in this area.

It was no accident that the first satellite was Soviet, and the first man in space, Yury Gagarin, was our compatriot. These technologies continue to be developed and commercialised. In this respect we need to take many steps forward, including with regard to the quality of satellites, the quality of the equipment. We need to regain and firmly uphold our leadership in space launches. There is now competition in this sphere. Our French friends and partners use Guiana actively, while in Asia and the United States, space technologies are developing very rapidly. This is all very good and normal. We work with our partners, we have various plans. Despite all the difficulties, say, in relations with the US, American and Russian scientists are working together, working on the study of deep space, including planets like Venus.

We have our own programme, a very good programme. The is the new programme, Sfera, which envisages the launch of 600-plus satellites in the next few years that will deal with global positioning, Earth probes and communications. It will be a breakthrough altogether.

This is another area where we can make a breakthrough because the quality of communications with this technology makes it possible to replace cable and the new system wouldn’t be worse in quality and coverage but would be more cost-effective and accessible. As a whole, it could lead to a revolution in communications.

We have good programmes related to the development of deep space. By 2022, we plan to test a medium-class carrier rocket and by 2022 these should be launches in an unmanned mode and by 2024, manned space vehicles should be used. In general, Russia has very ambitious space exploration plans.

I assure you, Russia will continue pursuing this path. It is not accidental that we have spent quite substantial funds and resources to create a new space port in the east of our country, Vostochny. We will develop it as a civilian component of our space exploration activities.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr Putin, actually, there are many questions about space, including about Rogozin who is now the head of Roscosmos Corporation. Some people have doubts about him because he is a journalist by training, whereas others think highly of his leadership skills and think he can move this industry forward, but…



Vladimir Putin:

You know, I think now is not the time to comment on this. Nevertheless, if such questions are asked I will say: yes, maybe his education is not applicable, but Mr Rogozin was involved in the defence industry for six years and paid a lot of attention to space activities in this industry. So, he is quite competent in this area.

But, of course, one man on the field does not a warrior make, and he and I have talked about this. He will involve others in this work and create a team capable of resolving technological tasks at the level required today, as well as production organisers that will deal professionally with the administrative side of the company. I hope he will manage.



Andrei Kondrashov:

There are many more jokes and questions about Vitaly Mutko.







Here is a message from seamen: “Mr Putin, allow us to paint Mutko’s portrait on our warships to make them unsinkable.”



Vladimir Putin:

Our warships are already unsinkable or hard to sink. Credit for this goes, first, to our shipbuilders and the training of our crews. I hope this will be the case and will be improved in the future.

As for Vitaly Mutko, there is indeed a lot of talk and gossip about him and I am fully aware of this. At the same time, I would like to draw your attention to the fact that although his English definitely needs improvement, it is enough to see what he did and built for sport and physical fitness during his years of work as Minister of Sport and Deputy Prime Minister.

Concentrate on the factual side of what he did, and not the emotional side. If we really look at what he did, we will see that it was significant. Take the facilities of the Sochi Olympics. Kozak also worked on them, but Mutko did, too. Just recently we talked about what has been done and how, about the functioning of these facilities, the effect of their presence for the region and how efficiently they are being used.

As for stadiums completed for the World Cup, credit for this largely goes to Mr Mutko. So I understand everything, but I focus on the reality, not opinions coloured by emotion. Needless to say, Mr Mutko should probably go to great lengths to display his best qualities in the new position and I hope this will be the case.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Let us see what other questions we have.



Vladimir Putin:

Sorry, there is one more point. We know how he was attacked over the doping scandal and so on and so forth. In these conditions, it is impossible to send him into retirement; and again, he has good potential. Let him do his job.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Let us once again go to the Call Centre. Let me say once again that volunteers are also there. Let us hear what questions they are working on.

Tatyana, please.



Tatyana Remezova:

Thank you, Kirill.

“Practically every one of us has relatives or friends or friends of friends afflicted with this disease – cancer.” This is from your Address, Mr President, where you proposed to implement a special national cancer programme.

This topic raises many questions. Each one speaks to the heart, there is no other way to say it. Alevtina Kiseleva, a healthcare worker, helped to clarify the main ones. She helps look after patients at hospitals. Alevtina is an aspiring oncologist.



Alevtina Kiseleva:

Indeed, we have received many questions on cancer.

First, the lack of oncology centres and qualified help in the regions. For example, the oncologist in Apatity sees patients for two hours per day. You remember Darya Starikova from last year, she is from Apatity. Or take Kaliningrad, where it takes three months to see an oncologist.

We still lack medicines in hospitals and ambulances. Yekaterina Trofimova from Crimea writes that the only chemotherapy course is in Simferopol and can only be done with the available medicines.

As a doctor, I know that the treatment must be tailored to each patient. Vera Kuprina’s mother from the Yaroslavl Region died of shock from the pain only because there was no medicine in the ambulance.

Misdiagnosis is another important problem. Marina Potseluyko from Bryansk was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and only several months later was a malignant brain tumour found.

Mr President, I am 24 years old and this year I graduate from Sechenov University with honours. I want to dedicate my life to oncology. It is very important for me know how we will save patients in the future. As we can see from the messages, the chain “patient – doctor – diagnosis – treatment” does not work. How can we resolve this problem?



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, you are certainly right, this is one of the most pressing and sensitive issues in healthcare. We are setting complicated and, without exaggeration, ambitious objectives on extending the life span of our people – we want to reach the best figures by 2024 – 80 plus.

Needless to say, this is impossible to achieve without modern treatment techniques, including technology to counter such personal tragedies as oncology. Compared to other diseases that affect life span, for instance cardiovascular ailments, we probably have fewer results, but a positive trend is still there.

What should we do in this respect? You mentioned this to some extent. Incidentally, there will be the same questions for Kaliningrad and Krasnodar – when will oncology centres be built?

In this context, I would like to make a point, and as a specialist you know this. But I will mention it again so our citizens know what road we are on.

First of all, this implies early diagnostics. If we can do this, we will ensure… Ms Skvortsova is on the screen. We will ask her to correct me if I am not being accurate about anything. Today, early diagnostics is at over 30 percent but we need to increase this to 50–70 percent, in which case we could provide a normal lifestyle for our cancer patients at least for five years, or more.

Now, we cure more than 90 percent of children with onco-hematology after the construction of the onco-hematological centre in Moscow and before that – I am afraid to say it – this figure was about 30 percent or less. And now it is over 90 percent. In other words, it is possible to achieve results. What should be done for this?

First, as I said, early diagnostics is critical. Second, we need to pay more attention to nuclear medicine because examinations with the latest techniques make it possible to identify a disease at an early stage or curb what has already developed.

Now about medicines and chemotherapy. We need effective domestic products that meet modern requirements.

Of course, we must work to attract people like you to medicine, that is, young professionals who love their jobs and who are needed in their area.

Here is what I will tell you. We certainly need to build more cancer centres and upgrade the existing ones. We are preparing this programme. It will cost approximately 1 trillion rubles until 2024 of the additional 8 trillion rubles I mentioned.

How should we invest these additional 8 trillion rubles, which we expect to receive soon? Let us ask Ms Skvortsova to comment on the issue you have raised. Ms Skvortsova, you have the floor.



Healthcare Minister Veronika Skvortsova:

Thank you, Mr President. Of course, you were correct that we must start with early disease diagnosis, which allows us to provide effective treatment.

Thankfully, the early detection rate for all types of cancer is 56 percent, and the figures are as high as 70 to 80 percent in some areas.

The number of undetected cancer cases has decreased dramatically in the country. Regarding the most common types, the detection rate of the last stage of female reproductive cancers has decreased to 5–9 percent. But that rate is still too high.

This is why we launched a cancer screening programme as part of regular health examinations in 2013. This year, we have changed the regulations for these health examinations.

People in the age groups where the cancer risk is especially high can have high-quality free health screenings every other year.

Moreover, women’s health clinics offer annual examinations that include ultrasound, cytological and microbiological examination.

We must raise general practitioner awareness of cancer symptoms. With this goal in view, we created an illustrated online programme a year ago.

A total of 85 percent of primary care doctors were certified under this programme in 2017. Our goal is to teach them to take notice of unusual symptoms, no matter what the patients come in for, and to compare them to cancer symptoms.







Andrei Kondrashov:

Ms Skvortsova, please excuse me, but we have a report on the subject you have raised.

In general, we have many medical questions. One of them caught our attention: Maria Bondareva works there and comes to us live.



Maria Bondareva:

Good afternoon, Mr President.

We are now in the town of Strunino, this is in Vladimir Region. Local residents have turned to you because of this hospital. It is not just the only hospital in Strunino with its population of 14,000, but also for the four nearby towns, 30,000 in total.

Not long ago this hospital was merged with the regional one, and it has ceased to be an independent unit, and because of this, as you can see, it has not been repaired in a very long time, and the buildings are very dilapidated. The picture is about the same inside, although everything is ready to treat patients.

I have written down that, as of today, the surgery, gynecology, inflections and pediatrics departments, as well as the laundry, cafeteria and even the maternity ward that once was here, are all closed. The skin disease and ophthalmology departments as well as the out-patient clinic may also be closed. The closest regional hospital is in Alexandrov, a 30-minute train ride, never mind how long it takes to get there door-to-door.

So the local residents have created a taskforce to resolve this problem. They have been protecting these walls for several months and have finally decided to turn to you, because we all heard and know your Address to the Federal Assembly and your May executive orders where you spoke in detail about developing and, as you say, achieving a breakthrough in healthcare and protecting our hospitals and medical institutions.

I have several representatives of this group here with me right now, such as Anna Pogodina. She has ten children and eight grandchildren. She was the one who sent the video to the call centre. And we decided to come here to give her a chance to address her question directly to you.



Anna Pogodina:

Good afternoon, Mr President.

This is a very important issue for me: the closing of the paediatrics department. I have 18 children. I am a mother and a grandmother. Moms have to travel to Alexandrov. It is hard work getting to the station with children and then waiting in a long line. No treatment helps. We have to ask for an appointment 4–6 weeks in advance and then have to wait for a place in hospital. We have established a taskforce headed by Irina Bandalag. Can we give her the floor?



Vladimir Putin:

Please.



Irina Bandalag:

Mr President, we had an excellent hospital in Strunino with all the necessary departments. When it was merged with the regional centre, its departments started to close down. And we want all of them back, because not everyone can afford going to Alexandrov. We do not have enough medicine, equipment or specialists. We are very worried that the departments that remain will be closed, too, and we will have no medical help at all. The polyclinic is in bad condition here. We would like to build a new one, but because there is not enough money for that, we want at least to repair the old one so that we have a place to go for medical help. We ask for your help in this problem. Thank you very much.



Vladimir Putin:

Thank you.

What is the population of Strunino? How many people?



Irina Bandalag:

14,000 plus nearby communities, up to 30,000 in total.



Maria Bondareva:

Up to 30,000 who are treated in hospitals.



Vladimir Putin:

I see.

Look, the issue is the most acute for small settlements where no more than 100 or 200 people live. To reiterate, in these places we plan to implement new programmes to establish mobile complexes and new paramedic centres, with 10 billion rubles allocated for the first programme and 7.4 billion for the second.

But in your case, we are speaking about a larger town. Of course things should be upgraded, and it must be clear who can provide what help and where. I totally agree with you. Without question, this is what the regional authorities must do.

The governor is already on the screen. Please, Ms Orlova, I would like to give you the floor.



Governor of Vladimir Region Svetlana Orlova:

Good afternoon, Mr President.

As of today, we are not shutting anything down in Strunino. We have allocated 68 million: 20 million on renovating the pediatric clinic, 40 on the hospital and the dermatology unit that needs to be repaired. The hospital was built in 1929. It is already hazardous to take children into the pediatric clinic.

This is why our department is working with local residents and with this taskforce. We will also look into the logistics, we will add mobile medical centres under the federal programme. Thank you very much.

We have over 20 such mobile centres. There are first aid stations operating in the townships. The hospital in Alexandrov was renovated last year; the paramedic station was also renovated. The paramedic station in Strunino was relocated to a new building due to the unified dispatcher call system. Of course, as the pediatric clinic is in the centre of Strunino, it is an inconvenience for moms, but this is temporary. And we will certainly keep a close eye on this.

We allocate the most funding to all things medicine. We have already built 17 first aid and obstetric stations in the villages, furnished practically all the equipment that was lacking, and we also allocated 60 million on medicine recently. In addition, we are working on the design and planning documentation of a new outpatient clinic. Strunino is certainly a small town with 14,000 residents, it is 15 kilometres away from the main centre, Alexandrov, and during the summer season when holidaymakers arrive, there is high demand for healthcare, so we send additional ambulances there. I think we will definitely work on getting an outpatient clinic there, all the more so as the foundation was dug there ages ago. It is needed.







Vladimir Putin:

I am very pleased that you finished with the words “it is needed.” Judging by what I see, the need is urgent because regardless of what you said – and I assume that things are really that way, all the positive moments you mentioned are surely real. But what we see now on the screen clearly requires your special attention.

And, Ms Skvortsova, about the resources that I have just mentioned, the 10 and 7.4 billion – there are other areas to be supported in the regions. I would like to ask you to consider this carefully and, together with the Governor, find a solution to this problem. We cannot simply eliminate primary care.

This issue is just as sensitive in many other regions as well, and it concerns not only primary care. The same thing is happening, by the way, in general education, in schools. I think we will come back to this issue a bit later.

I expect you to pay close attention to this. And I will see what happens next in actuality, in practice.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Maria, tell me please, is the group you are speaking with happy with the answers of the Minister, Governor and the President?



Maria Bondareva:

Yes, Andrei, they were very eager to add something while you were listening to the Governor of the Vladimir Region.



Anna Pogodina:

Well, the department is not working. They told us that it is not closed, but it is not working; it is, in fact, closed. They do not admit children, so we have to go to Alexandrov instead.



Maria Bondareva:

What is your question for the President?



Svetlana Orlova:

We would like him to help us restore everything that was destroyed. We would like everyone to help us.



Vladimir Putin:

Listen. Undoubtedly, this medical institution ought to operate as a modern one, and actually help people. Together with the Governor and the municipal authorities, with the support of the Healthcare Ministry, we will have to decide at the regional level what should be restored and to what extent. Ms Skvortsova is listening to all this right now.

I presume all these things will be done. And I would like to draw the attention of my colleagues to something: I am asking you to personally oversee this, so that there are no discrepancies of this kind in the future – whether the department is working or not.

It obviously must be hard to oversee every single municipality, but in this case, this must be done – it is people’s health that we are talking about.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Mr President, Kirill and I have selected a series of quick questions. Call it a blitz. Ready?



Vladimir Putin:

A blitz?



Andrei Kondrashov:

Yes.

What do you do when you do not know what to do?



Vladimir Putin:

You know, there is a rule used by motorists: better safe than sorry. The price for error is very high for people in my occupation.

So, if I do not know what to do, I try to find a solution after all and come all the same to a firm opinion about what is really needed and expedient.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr President, many people have noted your wonderful sense of humour. Have you ever had to laugh at yourself?



Vladimir Putin:

I often do this.



Kirill Kleymenov:

What was the best joke you've heard lately?



Vladimir Putin:

I do not know, I would need to think about it. We have discussed some international issues, some of them really funny I think. Recently, one of the most famous and popular media sources in Germany wrote that President Trump was pushing Europe into Putin's hands.

If we combine this with an earlier joke that Russia interfered in the US election, all this sounds funny enough: we allegedly tampered with the presidential election in the US, and he gave us Europe as a reward. Complete nonsense. Or a joke, because it can’t be serious.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Is there any question that you do not really have an answer for?



Vladimir Putin:

It is difficult to answer your question. But I can tell you that if I do not have an answer, I try to find one anyway. And I try to do this with my colleagues.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr President, this is a very personal question from one of our viewers: What advice would you pass from your father to your grandchildren?



Vladimir Putin:

Never lie.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Can you tell us when you believed in God?



Vladimir Putin:

Now this is a very personal question. It is very difficult to talk about it with the public, but, in my opinion, every person is born with faith in God deep down, everyone is born with it, but people begin to understand this at different times and under different circumstances.

In any case, say, during the Great Patriotic War, when even the most hardened and stubborn atheists stood up in the trench and charged, I am sure that each of them was thinking about God.

I admit there are people who realise this without any extreme situations, but for sure, when a person finds themselves in an extreme situation, almost everyone thinks about God.







Kirill Kleymenov:

One more question: Mr President, what does one have to sacrifice to be President?



Vladimir Putin:

Sacrifice? The privacy of a personal life, this is inevitable. But there is also very powerful compensation – this is compensated by the realisation that you are engaged in a very important, necessary, unique business aimed at improving the welfare of millions of people and strengthening what is most important of all – their Motherland.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Let us once again give floor to our television spectators. The Call Centre, please.



Tatyana Remezova:

Kirill, thank you very much.

By now we have received over 1,300,000 calls, 500,000 SMSs and 250,000 questions on the website: over 2.3 million in total.

And now I would like to show how our volunteers process questions. As you can see, all folders here have subjects, and every five minutes they come here and place questions in the right folder: environment, demography or medicine.

I would like to point out that every fifth question concerns social issues, including many questions about pensions. For example: “Why has indexation stopped for working elderly people?” from Noginsk. Or from the Tula Region: “How long will the investment part of the pension remain frozen?” And probably the question everyone is talking about. Alexei Goncharov from Kursk is on the phone.

Mr Goncharov, you are on the air. Ask your question.



Question:

Good afternoon. Alexei Goncharov from Kursk.

Mr President, will the pension age be raised? No one will employ you if you are older than 50. Will early retirement be cancelled for miners, railway workers and security workers?



Vladimir Putin:

First of all there were several questions from our host: working elderly people and so on. During the Soviet era, as you know, working seniors were not paid [pensions], unfortunately, and the government does the same today, whether it seems appropriate or not.

But we should certainly think about this, first of all, because these are mostly people who work at low-paying jobs such as nurses in hospitals or kindergartens. I mean the situation on the labour market and the low income of these citizens. Of course, we should think about it.

Speaking about the pension age, you know my position: I have always been extremely careful and clear on this, and I continue to be.

I would like to highlight a key task I have charged the Government with: to increase elderly people’s incomes, and significantly.

The Government definitely will have to see to this in the near future, because it would involve solving another task: reducing by half the number of people living in poverty.

We will find out what measures the Government will propose to resolve this key task in the very near future. I hope that this will be done, and we will be able to discuss this and speak about the proposed measures.

But let me stress once again that the key task for the entire pension system is to significantly increase elderly people’s income.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Now on Direct Line we have one of Russia’s most classified centres – the famous Kurchatov Institute or as its employees tenderly call it, Kurchatnik. It recently marked 75 years since being founded. Our correspondent Dmitry Kaistro is there. He is live on the air.



Dmitry Kaistro:

Good afternoon.

This is the laboratory of the legendary National Research Centre Kurchatov Institute. It is here that the unique biosimilar technology is being developed. This is indeed a new word in science. It is being created by the youngest scientists and I will introduce some of them to you today. This is Yulia Dyakova who is in charge of the research department and Timofei Griogoryev who heads the section that is developing this unique biosimilar technology.

Timofei, what do you have in your hands?



Timofei Grigoryev:

Good afternoon, Mr President. I have a device that puts fine fibre on a wound or a burn. This fibre creates a coating that protects a wound or a burn from the loss of moisture and warmth and from infection while a patient is being taken to the hospital. Using the same technology we developed frames of bio artificial organs – trachea, skin, a diaphragm. When inserted into the body they are overgrown by cells and vessels and eventually dissolve leaving what amounts to living tissue. We are also working a lot on biodegradable polymers. Using biodegradable composites we designed screws and plates to fix broken bones or torn tendons. By the time they degrade by design, they will be replaced with bone tissue and the patient will not have to undergo a second operation to remove them. Such intramedullary screws are being tested on large laboratory animals.



Dmitry Kaistro:

Thanks to these innovations Russia is now on the verge of a scientific breakthrough. Yulia, is this unique technology already being used in production, medicine or in hospitals?



Yulia Dyakova:

Regrettably, not yet.

Mr President, the main problem here that we have a very long and complicated certification procedure that can go on for years, whereas our foreign competitors can complete it in six to eight weeks.

We also think it would be important for the state to spend part of the funds used to purchase medical devices on developments by Russian scientists. This applies not only to medicine but also to other innovative areas.







For example, here at the Kurchatov Institute we have created unique technology that makes it possible, using the microbiological industry and microbiological synthesis, to process a grain surplus into important products, for instance, fodder additives, all of which are currently purchased abroad. We suggest studying possible ways of supporting a couple of pilot companies, supporting the creation of these companies, where grain surpluses can be processed into important microbiological products, including fodder additives.



Dmitry Kaistro:

It will not be an exaggeration if I add that there are dozens of innovations here. And you can literally see them with your own eyes.



Timofei Grigoryev:

Yes. And while we were talking, we applied this coating. Look, it is absolutely atraumatic, you can remove it without disturbing the injury. So, if every second ambulance has this device, if these shafts and screws are used in average injury care centres, it will make the lives of the Russian people better.



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, this is indeed interesting, this is promising and we need it. As you know, I visited the Kurchatov Institute not long ago and Mr Kovalchuk told me about your innovations. I know that there are problems with certification, that’s true in practice – despite the fact that we have adopted regulatory standards requiring that these innovations be introduced at a much faster pace than in some of other countries, our competitors. According to our regulatory standards, our innovations must be introduced faster than in those countries, but in practice we do have problems.

As regards this particular case, our colleague has just said that tests on animals, as he put it, are currently under way. That means that you have not yet submitted your development for certification. But for us to reach a final conclusion about how the certification system works in this case, you need to go through the technological preparations envisaged by the law in order to commercialise your product.

But you are right in saying that we must properly focus on this. Ms Skvortsova has repeatedly appeared on our screens today. There is no need now to switch back to the Healthcare Ministry again, but we will work on this. And the fact that your inventions need support, including in terms of commercialisation, we will certainly do that.

I want to congratulate you on these achievements. These are indeed important achievements, and I hope that our medical institutions will be widely using this in the near future.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Thanks to Kurchatov Institute for that.

Mr President, one of the serious issues we face during preparations for Direct Line is defrauded housing equity holders. The problem does exist, and it is serious.

But we should note that there are regions where this has been successfully resolved, where the necessary mechanisms and methods were found. For example, the Yaroslavl and Tyumen regions.

With their approach, developers who agree to complete unfinished buildings are granted new land for construction for free. Also, a system of special tax incentives is in place. Developers who complete these buildings have the right to sell the flats that were not sold by the previous developer.

And indeed, the situation has improved; people move to these flats and finally get what they should have received years ago. A roof over a warm corner is the most important thing.



Andrei Kondrashov:

In fact, there are also negative experiences. We have a lot of them, but I will just read a couple of examples.

Lipetsk, Yevgeny Zaitsev: “About 1,500 defrauded housing equity holders in the Yevropeisky District in Lipetsk are looking to you. We all entered into co-funded construction agreements with the SU-5 group. The building has not been completed yet.” Here are the details.

Vladivostok, Yulia Matveyeva: “These is our unfinished housing behind us built under the Housing for Russian Families in Vladivostok federal programme. The Snegovoi District. The programme was launched in 2014, and 700 families invested in it. Nothing has been built so far, although the houses should have been commissioned over eighteen months ago. And we want to live there. Please help us.”

These are requests for help.



Vladimir Putin:

I will put it on record, I promise you, I will put on record these questions, these requests, and I promise you that we will respond to them. The federal centre helps the regional leaders, and we will pay attention to these issues.

But the problem is much broader than the specific cases that you mentioned, because there are a lot of them. Why is this? It is due to insufficiently clear regulations that have been in place until today, and the volume of construction is very large.

Look, we had about 79 million square metres built last year. Industrial construction accounts for around two-thirds of that. What is called industrial construction is primarily construction of residential houses.

Overall, we have over a million, I think 1.1 million, agreements on co-investing construction of a residential house. And the amount of money there is, I think it is 3.4 trillion rubles. These are huge amounts, and funds are not always efficiently used by developers.

Governors bear an enormous responsibility. What I mean to say is that we must eventually start employing civilised methods of residential housing construction without involving taxpayer money.

We face a difficult problem already this year – to reach 88 million square metres, and in the following years until 2024 we will have to achieve a much more ambitious number of 120 million square metres per year.

We must ensure that approximately five million families could improve their housing situation, so that each family in need could improve their housing conditions once every ten years. This is a very complicated task but it is attainable because now about 3.5 million families have this opportunity.







However, if we take immediate steps now to reduce the use of taxpayer money, we are going to face several problems. The first one is an increased number of complaints from people because developments already launched will be impossible to finish. And the second problem – we will sharply decrease the overall volume of development.

This is why we made a decision to stop signing co-investing construction agreements as of July 1, 2019, and to channel only funds from financial institutions and banks to that end.

But I already see our new Construction Minister on the screen. Let us ask Mr Yakushev to comment on what I said and what he would like to add. Please, go ahead, Mr Yakushev.



Vladimir Yakushev:

Thank you, Mr President.

Indeed, a number of amendments have been drafted to the Federal Law 214 On Shared-Equity Construction under which we must resolve two crucial tasks that made this market and the shared-equity construction process non-transparent.

First, it is moving away from the “common pool method”; one construction permit – one settlement account. Second, it is banking support. The two tools must start working from July 1 of this year. And as you rightly said, from July 1, 2019 the so-called special accounts will accommodate the funds of the shared-equity construction participants, but the developer will have no authority over the account.

This money is blocked, and the developer uses it as a guarantee to open a credit line at a bank to finance the construction. And this account will be used to settle the credit line and, respectively, the developer will get a profit only after the keys are handed over to the shared-equity construction participants.

This is the mechanism that will allow for using share-equity holders’ money and to keep it intact in the best possible way and to avoid the “pyramids” we have today. We will have to adopt the amendments on June 27 and start working with the new mechanism immediately.

This will clear the market and initiate a very ambitious task – building 120 million square metres of housing. A number of mechanisms are envisaged for this that will be included in the Housing and Urban Environment programme.

And as you instructed, we will prepare the necessary regulatory framework by October 1 in order to achieve this.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Thank you, Mr Yakushev.

Let’s continue with the subject of housing by talking about mortgages, or rather, about subsidising mortgages. Our correspondent Ivan Prozorov is now in Ivanovo, and there is a continuation of this subject there.

So, Ivan Prozorov is on the air.



Ivan Prozorov:

Hello colleagues.

We are now in Ivanovo visiting a large family of the Verkhovskys. They are building their own house, and have already moved into it. But they live, so to speak, in field-like conditions. This is the future master bedroom. But now the construction materials and equipment needed for renovation are being stored here. In fact, very few rooms have been completed so far, only two. This is a common bedroom and a living room where the family with three children has to be cooped up, and a kitchen where the whole family has gathered. So we have the opportunity to get to know everyone better now.

This is Margarita, mom and wife. She is holding baby Lada in her arms, who is just over a year old. Look, she is glad to see guests, new people; she is looking at the camera with interest. A radiant and sunshiny baby who charges everyone with happiness.

This is Andrei, he is 13; he finished the sixth grade and is on vacation; next year he will be a seventh-grader.

Vanya, he is three. A real fidgety boy. It is quite difficult to watch him get quiet. But now, he’s probably excited by the camera, and has calmed down a little.

And finally, the head of the family, Dmitry Verkhovsky. I want to draw your attention to the fact that everything we see here was made by Dmitry himself. He himself is building this house. He really has gifted hands. But in fact, the construction is not moving very quickly due to the lack of funds for this large family. And this is not just because Dmitry is the only one working, while Margarita is a housewife and cares for the children. The family has a mortgage, which Dmitry talked about in his request through Direct Line.







Dmitry, in what format did you record your request?



Dmitry Verkhovsky:

We wrote through a mobile app, via a mobile phone and sent it to the President's Direct Line.



Ivan Prozorov:

And your question for the President is connected with the mortgage, with mortgage rates. Your question please.



Dmitry Verkhovsky:

Good afternoon, Mr President. My name is Dmitry Verkhovsky. My wife and I have three children. Apart from the children we also have a 13 percent mortgage rate that we took out several years ago. Recently we learnt that in accordance with your instruction the Government issued Resolution 1711 (I have it printed here, I have specially printed it out) which allows for cutting the mortgage rate from 13 percent, as we are paying now, to six percent. It would be a great help for us. But when we went to the bank, we were told that, unfortunately, we are not eligible for this programme since we already have three children, and if we have a fourth child, the benefit is not applicable to us. Because clause 9 in the resolution says that the benefit applies only after the birth of a second or third child, whereas nothing is written about the fourth, fifth or sixth child. This is a problem for many families with many children. A friend of mine has 10 children, and he also cannot count on this benefit.

Mr President, we would like to ask you to somehow change clause 9 so that it reads as follows: the benefit of reducing the mortgage rate to six percent applies to persons who have a second or subsequent child, subsequent children. Then families with many children will also be eligible as are those with two and three children now.

Thank you very much. We really rely on you.



Vladimir Putin:

What can I say. You are right. The decision you quoted from the Government’s resolution – I might disappoint the Finance Ministry now – is wrong, and it should be rectified. It will cost, if I am right, about 9 billion rubles. This is not so much money. Well, it is a lot of money, of course, but not so much in view of the need to support families with children and settle demographic issues and problems facing the country. I will surely talk to the Prime Minister about that issue. We will do it, we will correct it. And I would like to wish all the best to your family and those families like yours.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Well, that issue was [resolved] very quickly and promptly.



Vladimir Putin:

Is this the Ivanovo Region? Governor Voskresensky. Let’s ask him as well. Please tell us briefly, in a few words, about this situation. Though this is not within the governor’s competence, but what does the governor think about resolving these problems? I would also like to ask you to pay attention to the situation and simply to support families with children. Go ahead, please.



Ivanovo Region Governor Stanislav Voskresensky:

Good afternoon, Mr President. Good afternoon, Dmitry,

We have positive trends in the mortgage sector. The recent figures show that the number of mortgages in the first quarter of this year grew by about 30 percent compared to the same period in 2017. By the way, new housing commissioning more than doubled in the first quarter of 2018.

This is related to what is, regrettably, still a partial solution to the housing equity holders’ problem. I am monitoring these problems. For the time being we have not resolved all the problems but we are paying much attention to them. It goes without saying that we will look carefully into Dmitry’s situation and follow up on it.

Dmitry just spoke about the interest rate. It is rather high. The banks now lend at less than 13 percent, of course. So, I will certainly meet with Dmitry to see how we can in general support such families.



Vladimir Putin:

Indeed, the volume of mortgage loans is growing steadily and an increasing number of people choose mortgage to resolve their problems. I have already talked about this and will not return to it. But we will have to do this.

I see First Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Government, who is Finance Minister at the same time, Anton Siluanov has appeared on the screen. Mr Siluanov, go ahead please.



Finance Minister Anton Siluanov:

Indeed, we are doing all we can to reduce mortgage interest rates. Now the average rate is about 9.73 percent. Let me recall that some time ago this was a two digit figure. Indeed, we are adopting programmes to reduce it further for some categories of our citizens who require such support. I am primarily referring to families with children, families with two, three or more children. You have given us the instructions and we will make a relevant decision in the Government.

However, our main goal is to make mortgages accessible to the majority of people. The task for us and the Central Bank is to further reduce interest rates in the economy and keep inflation low. This will allow us to expand the use of this instrument of improving housing conditions of our people. We are pursuing our budgetary and monetary policies with this in mind.



Vladimir Putin:

I think I mentioned in the Address that we should orient ourselves to a mortgage interest rate of about 8 percent but should strive to keep it down to 7 percent. This is a succinct statement. We have had many debates on this issue. This is linked with budget expenditures but the Government and the Central Bank should strive for 7 percent.

As for the Government’s resolution you mentioned, it should certainly be amended, and we will do this.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Mr President, relocation is another issue related to the housing problem. What do you think of the Moscow relocation programme?







Vladimir Putin:

This is a large-scale project, with almost a million people involved, and Moscow will allocate 400 billion rubles for this in the next several years.

I know about all the disputes and questions, at least, about the main ones Muscovites asked the Moscow authorities. As of today, I think that the main concerns are settled; the programme has begun and I count on it to be implemented through to 2024 and beyond in the interests of Moscow and its residents, with the same speed and quality as the Moscow Government has been demonstrating so far.

Mr Sobyanin is live, please.



Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin:

Mr President, good afternoon. I would like to thank you for supporting the adoption of the Federal Law on Relocation. This law really guarantees about a million Muscovites that they will be relocated from dilapidated housing.

As of today, we have issued all the necessary regulations and, as you have said, allocated finances to implement the first phase of the programme. The city has begun the large-scale work to develop the construction documents in all the relocation districts at the same time.

We must provide comfortable living conditions for those who are part of the relocation programme and those who live in the neighbouring buildings. I mean transport, social and utilities infrastructure. This is very important.

In addition, we have chosen and started developing and building at 250 starting sites, which will give the first impetus to the subsequent relocation wave. This year, we will relocate almost 10,000 Muscovites who will be given comfortable housing to live.

So thank you very much, Mr President. We will do everything to implement the programme, to make it comfortable for people and provide all the guarantees envisaged in the Federal Law.



Vladimir Putin:

Thank you, Mr Sobyanin. I wish you success. I am sure that the programme will be implemented as it was conceived.

But in conclusion I would like to return once again to what I already said, namely: this does not mean that this programme will be implemented in Moscow, while we forget about all the other regions when it comes to improving the living conditions of our citizens in other territories.

I will return to what I said. We aim to build a total of 120 million square metres of housing, and five million people should be able to improve their housing conditions. At the same time, the mortgage rate should drop to eight, or even better, to seven percent.

In addition to this, we will work to attract new, infrastructure-equipped land. A number of other steps will be taken, including from the point of view of the effective operation of financial institutions, banks directly related to this business.

This whole system, including effective work of the governors (which I really expect), will allow us to solve the problems of housing construction not only in the capital cities of Moscow and St Petersburg, but throughout the Russian Federation.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr President, and one more topic that is related to our previous Direct Line. If you remember, we then talked about families from the Stavropol Territory who after the flood had to pay money for certificates and damage assessment.

It turned out that this is not the only bureaucratic wall that people have to overcome, and that is why our crew went to the village of Levokumka, Stavropol Territory. Our colleague Mikhail Akinchenko works there.



Mikhail Akinchenko:

Indeed, exactly a year ago we were here in the Stavropol Territory on the banks of the Kuma River as part of the Direct Line TV crew. Let me remind you, that back then people were complaining about the issues they shared after last year’s flooding – they could not have their papers processed to receive compensation for the property and homes they lost.

After Direct Line last year, the problem was successfully resolved for the majority of people, however, not all – far from it. Lots of people are still being left in limbo, waiting for their documents to be processed.

This year as many as 17 families from the village of Levokumovka contacted Direct Line. For more than a year now they have been living in homes that are simply unfit to live in. Better, listen to what they say about their problem. Next to me is Yevgeniya Lavrik, the owner of one of the flood-damaged homes.

Yevgeniya, you are on, and the President sees you and can hear you, so you can tell him about your problem and ask questions.



Yevgeniya Lavrik:

Good afternoon, Mr President.

I will show you what my problem looks like, rather than just talk about it. On May 24, 2017, our homes were damaged by severe flooding. Water remained in our homes for about five days. The current was so strong that it even carried our threshold away.

Because of high humidity, part of the floor in our home has caved in. In the spring, new residents moved in; I am talking about frogs. My child, Nastya, is already on friendly terms with them, playing games.

We have to cover the floor with boards because we are not really interested in this relationship. As soon as our home started to dry up, things became more complicated as new cracks emerged – just look here. There are more cracks with each passing day.

Let me introduce my mother and my daughter Anastasia to you. Here we eat and here we play – it is kind of a play area. We chose this place because it is the safest – at least, no bricks have fallen yet. These are the awful conditions we live in.

As the water receded, a commission arrived and issued an act confirming that our housing was hazardous and unfit for living as a result of the emergency. We were put on the waiting list for housing certificates, but, to our great regret, we were taken off the state housing certificate list because we had been in the non-residential property group since 2002. In fact, it turns out that our house was excluded from the housing stock in 2002 …



Mikhail Akinchenko:

Just show the documents, Yevgeniya. Tell us.



Yevgeniya Lavrik:

I registered ownership of this house in 2014, and my daughter was registered as a resident with me in 2016. Nobody ever told me about this, that my house was in a non-residential category. We pay gas and electricity bills like everyone else. Nobody told us anything, that we are living in a non-residential property and basically should not be there.

This is why we tried to see our governor for a year. Our governor, unfortunately, as his assistants explained to us, does not receive citizens, so we could not get in to see him for a whole year. Then just a week ago he heard us, and came to discuss our problem. But all he said was that he would try.



Kirill Kleymenov:

The issue is clear. Mr President, please.



Vladimir Putin:

Look. In general, problems like this do get resolved, but there are flagrant cases like the one you just described.

I do not know of course the specifics of the administrative system within which local authorities qualify your housing conditions, whether your building is in the housing fund or not.

But if your house is recognized as hazardous due to a natural disaster, then of course, your problems should be dealt with. All the rest is bureaucratic excuses and delays.

Maybe it is also due to a lack of coordination between regional and federal authorities, including the Emergencies Ministry, because the Emergencies Ministry must decide if all the residential buildings on the list comply with the decision to provide new housing or pay a compensation, whether to approve the list or not. If the lists are rejected, the regional authorities must somehow quickly amend them and make sure that money is allocated from federal sources.

I would like to assure you that in your case we, of course, will get things straight, and I will be waiting for a report from the Governor of the Stavropol Territory. But on the whole, the system is more general. We will see how the interaction between the regional and federal authorities works. And I would like to thank you for bringing up this problem, I mean, the need to find a solution for your family, but we will see what we can and must improve in general. Let us hear what the Governor has to say on your case.







Mr Vladimirov, please.



Governor of the Stavropol Territory Vladimir Vladimirov:

Thank you for the question. It is actually very helpful.

It is true that the house that belonged to Yevgenia Lavrik’s stepfather was in the flood zone in 2002. In 2011, the court ruled that it be returned to the housing fund. The stepfather gave the house to her, but, unfortunately, it was damaged in another tragic flood last year. Today the documents were returned to us. They were returned on May 21 because a state housing certificate was earlier issued for this address.

Mr President, I slightly disagree with this. I have made a request to the Emergencies Ministry and the Finance Ministry asking to exclude this situation from the grounds for denying a state housing certificate. In addition to this problem, there really are 17 people there. There are people who honestly acquired housing that was flooded but then returned to the housing fund. This is why your help will be necessary to break this wall and to provide these 17 families with state housing certificates. Thank you very much.



Vladimir Putin:

Do this quickly and in accordance with the corresponding regulations. Of course, such families need help, and we will provide it.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr President, by the way, what do you think of the fact that the President has to go into issues that, if truth be told, should be handled by the local authorities?



Vladimir Putin:

This is not entirely true, because (the governor is right here) this is an aberration, as I just said, between the regional authorities and the federal authorities. We just need to work harder on both sides.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Now let's return, as we promised, to our young bloggers in one of the Moscow City skyscrapers. Anton Lyadov is there.



Anton Lyadov:

Hello again.

The bloggers are indeed closely following everything that is happening here. They are commenting, broadcasting live from here, using their smartphones to communicate.

One of them uploaded a video about an hour ago and it already has more than 100,000 views. These bloggers have huge audiences, a total of about 20 million people are subscribed to those here today. They have asked their viewers, their subscribers what they would like to ask the President.

Next to me are the bloggers Artyom Kholikov and Andrei Glazunov. They shoot entertaining videos, I was told. Go ahead please.



Artyom Kholikov:

Hello!

My name is Artyom Kholikov, I'm a blogger.

I have a question about cryptocurrency. This issue is of interest to all young people. So the first question is, will Russia have its own cryptocurrency? Second, will this be somehow controlled by the government? And third, do you think that in the near future cryptocurrency will completely replace standard money?



Vladimir Putin:

The question your subscribers asked is somewhat incorrectly phrased, because Russia cannot have its own cryptocurrency by definition; no country can, because if we are talking about cryptocurrency, this is something that transcends national boundaries. First.

Second, so-called mining is not regulated in Russia, and we generally try to handle it with care. In the vast majority of countries, cryptocurrency is not a means of payment. Experts say it is used in some rare cases somewhere in Japan, but in other countries it does not work.

You know the Central Bank’s attitude to so-called cryptocurrencies. The Central Bank believes that cryptocurrencies cannot be a means of payment or settlement, cannot be a means of saving, and that cryptocurrencies are not secured by anything. All this shows that we must treat this very carefully.

Nevertheless this phenomenon exists in the world, and it is developing. We must carefully analyse it, review what is happening, and then look at some stage how we could participate in this process and how we can use it, among other things, to avoid restrictions in the sphere of international financial activity.



Kirill Kleymenov:

An exhaustive answer.



Andrei Glazunov:

I think that we, bloggers, and our audience can really be used to draw more attention to some problems and solve them. I would like to ask you about the environment. I live near a forest and can feel how clean the air is. But as soon as I come to a place with a lot of cars, the air becomes a bit different. And another question about electric cars that are so unpopular here that only 28 of them were sold last year. I am really interested in this. The question is, will there be subsidies for electric cars? Maybe free parking or even tax exemptions, because they run on electricity?

Thank you.



Vladimir Putin:

It is true that, in order to improve the environmental situation, many countries incentivise the development of eco-friendly means of transport, including electric cars. And we can see what happens in this area around the world. Russia is a bit of special case, however. Why? Because a primary source is necessary to produce electricity and charge the electric car. And here we run into a paradox, because what is the most popular source of electricity? Coal. And coal is not the most eco-friendly kind of fuel. I think that, for Russia and many other countries, natural gas is the primary and much more eco-friendly source. This is why if we are speaking about improving the environmental situation in this area, we should switch to natural gas instead and encourage the development of this direction worldwide.

There are some issues, primarily related to filling stations. This is an accounting matter and Gazprom is working on it. In general, the idea is also supported by the federal government and the regions, but, as of today, this is not enough to make introducing this mode of transport economically viable. Many things will depend on the work in the regions and various provinces. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately, the number of filling stations in some countries, in this case natural gas filling stations, is much higher than in Russia, although Russia is a natural gas producer, a leader, but lags behind a bit in this respect. We are working on this and will definitely be moving towards this.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Thank you very much to our bloggers.

Now on to the problem that was reported by the tens of thousands of people who contacted Direct Line. We will not tell you what this is about straight away. Now we go to the city of Bataisk in the Rostov Region, where our colleague Maria Gladkikh is working.



Maria Gladkikh:

Good afternoon, Mr President.

Southern Russia welcomes you. We are in Bataisk, a small city in the Rostov Region with a population of about 120,000.

We have come here at the request of a group of people whom you can see next to me on either side. They have been brought together by the same problem, so they came here with their families and their children. We spoke to them beforehand.

For example, all of them had to move here, although initially they did not plan to live here but they had to flee war-stricken Donetsk and Lugansk. Tatyana, I know it must be four years that you have not seen your husband. You are holding his photograph in your hands…



Remark:

Yes, exactly four years ago I left Donetsk because my home was only five kilometres from the airport on the demarcation line and it was very dangerous to stay there. This is our family photograph. Unfortunately, I had to leave.



Maria Gladkikh:

Natalya has also ended up in a difficult situation. She also had to leave her home with her child. I know that every day your brother when leaving home for work still has the habit of bidding farewell to his family, just in case.

Of course, it is very difficult for those of us who have not lived through this to understand what it is like to flee your home. Please tell your story in a few words, if possible. I know life is not easy for you and you have problems with your child.



Remark:

We came here four years ago. When we were crossing the border during the hostilities, my child – he was 18 months old at the time – suffered severe psychological trauma. Now he needs treatment.

He suffers from developmental delay and his sight is worsening. So, at the moment I cannot go back with a sick child and expose him to another psychological trauma.

We want to be useful here but we have run into serious problems trying to have our documents processed. First, I mean the law on 90 days, under which we must leave the country for 90 days. And we have to go back despite the hostilities there.

I cannot leave for 90 days with a sick child. It takes a long time to have documents processed here. Plus the certificates we have to obtain – they are costly and we have to earn money to be able to pay for them.

It is kind of a vicious cycle: to obtain a certificate, so that we can work here legally and be useful, we must earn money but at the same time they cannot take us on because we have no documents.

Please take note of us and our problem, so that the procedure for obtaining citizenship might be simplified for the people from the Lugansk and Donetsk people’s republics.

Thank you very much.



Vladimir Putin:

We have already spoken about the situation in the Lugansk and Donetsk people’s republics, about the overall situation in Donbass. This is a tragedy, a huge tragedy for Ukraine, the Ukrainian people and our compatriots. You know, I have always treated Ukraine as a brotherly nation, and I consider Ukrainians and Russians to be practically one people. We have a common past, and I am sure, a common future despite any tragedies of today.







Yet there are certain people, certain problems. You know, I actually feel uneasy listening about problems, say with employment, that continue to this day. We have addressed this issue a number of times, and I already instructed the migration service to pay attention to that, to make respective proposals, to address those issues, if necessary, in current law.

All that must be done. I am saying this again to the Interior Minister and the leadership of the migration service itself. We have different draft laws on this but, unfortunately, they are still stuck. I will try to have the problem taken care of in your case, but the problem is much bigger than that.

I am deeply convinced that we must move in the direction of liberalising everything connected with obtaining Russian citizenship. This has a humanitarian dimension, it also has an economic dimension.

In view of the difficult demographic situation in Russia this problem is becoming not only medical and not only social, it is acquiring a clear economic dimension.

The number of Russian women of childbearing age will decrease by over 25 percent by 2032. It becomes a constraint to economic growth. And not because something negative is occurring in the economy or in the social sphere.

On the contrary, it is the result of a severe decline in births in the 1990s – and I am sorry to use such words but we cannot escape it – the number of women of childbearing age has plunged. Now they are approaching the age when they can become mothers but their number fell in the 1990s, and we cannot do anything about it.

One of the few solutions to this problem is getting our compatriots to return to Russia. Of course, this means people without regard to ethnicity or religious affiliation, but also people who consider themselves to be closely tied to the Russian world, who speak Russian, want to work in our country and have the requisite skills.

This is why radical steps need to be taken in this sphere, of course, with account of the interests of the Russian Federation residents living in certain areas, I mean the labour market situation. We have the Interior Minister with us via a video linkup.

Mr Kolokoltsev, I am not going to make you say anything or comment on that now. You heard what I said, I know that much has to be worked through at the legislative level, and this may not directly involve your ministry, but you must initiate all the processes that are related to your ministry and the migration service.

Let me reiterate, when we took the decision to merge the migration service into the Interior Ministry, we presumed that they understand not just the law enforcement aspect of the matter, but also understand the processes that occur in the labour market and in the economy.

Here we have the Governor of the Rostov Region on the line as well as the Mayor of Rostov-on-Don. So I would ask you to work with these people and do everything to safeguard their interests and help them. They are in a tough situation, and they are not strangers to us.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr President, we have an enormous queue of people eager to call our studio and ask their question at this very moment.

Let us move to the Call Centre. Tatyana, please.



Tatyana Remezova:

Thank you, Kirill.

At this point we have received 2.5 million calls. Back to the refugee topic and the Donbass issue. Just like in Donbass, people in Syria are also looking forward to peace. Our viewers have been following the developments in that hot spot with equal attention and trepidation partly because our military is stationed in Syria. Sergei Mikhailov from Karachayevo-Circassia is on the line. Hello, Sergei! You are on the air. Go ahead, please.



Sergei Mikhailov:

Good afternoon! Mr President, my name is Sergei Mikhailov, I am a working pensioner from the Karachayevo-Circassian Republic. Since you are the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, please answer, Mr President: when will the Russian military contingent be fully withdrawn from Syria?



Vladimir Putin:

Our contingent in the Syrian Arab Republic is not just military…

What I want to say is this. First, the use of our Armed Forces in combat conditions is a unique experience and a unique tool to improve our Armed Forces. No exercises can compare with actually using the Armed Forces in combat conditions.

Yes, we know that the use of the Armed Forces in combat conditions means losses. We will never forget about those losses and will never leave the families of our comrades, who have not returned home from Syria, in trouble.

But that was an important and noble mission aimed at protecting the interests of the Russian Federation and our citizens. Let me remind you that thousands of militants, natives of Central Asian countries, with which we have no controlled borders, are massing on Syrian territory. It was better to deal with them and destroy them over there than confront them with lethal force here. That is first.

Second, our combat efforts have helped stabilise the situation in the Syrian Arab Republic. Today, the Syrian army and the Syrian government control the territory with more than 90 percent of the country's population.

Large-scale combat operations, particularly with the use of the Russian Armed Forces, have ceased. They are no longer necessary. A settlement through peaceful means is currently on the agenda, and we are working on that too.

As regards the presence of our military, again, it is more than just a military contingent. These are two deployment sites: one in the port of Tartus and the other is an air facility in Khmeimim, which is there in full conformity both with the treaty with the Syrian government and international law.

Our military is there in order to secure Russia's interests in this vitally important region of the world, which is very close to us, and they will be there as long as it benefits Russia and in pursuance of our international commitments.

So far, we are not planning to withdraw those units, but I am drawing your attention to the fact that I did not call these sites bases. We are not building long-term structures there and can withdraw all of our service members quickly without material loss.

So far, they are necessary, they are fulfilling important tasks, including ensuring Russia's security in that region and ensuring our interests in the economic sphere.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57692
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 12th, 2018 #850
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Direct Line with Vladimir Putin - PART III



June 7, 2018 - 16:30 - Moscow








Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr President, what lessons from the Syrian campaign would you call the most important for our Armed Forces?



Vladimir Putin:

These are not lessons. This is an invaluable experience as I mentioned – the use of the armed forces, and the use of advanced weapons systems.

I have to make a reservation before we go any further. When I talk about the latest weapons systems, I do not mean a testing ground. Syria is not a shooting range for Russian weapons, but we are still using them there, our new weapons.

This has led to the improvement of modern strike systems, including missile systems. It is one thing to have them, and quite another thing to see how they fare in combat conditions.

As I said, and I will repeat, when we started to use these modern weapons, including missiles, whole teams from our defence industry companies went to Syria, and worked there on-site (it is extremely important for us!) to finalise them and figure out what we can count on when using them in combat conditions. That’s first.

Second, our commanders – we had a large number of officers and generals go in Syria and take part in these hostilities – began to understand what a modern armed conflict is, how important communication, intelligence, interaction between all-arms units and formations is, how important it is to ensure the effective operation of the aerospace group, aviation, ground forces, including special operations forces. This has enabled us to take another major step in improving our Armed Forces.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr Putin, to continue with the topic of our cutting-edge weaponry, in your Address to the Federal Assembly, you spoke about a few super projects.

A series of articles appeared at once in the Western media hinting that the weapons were still being tested and not always as successfully as Russia is trying to make it seem. So, do our forces already have these weapons?



Vladimir Putin:

Look, I said this in the Address to the Federal Assembly, and I would like to repeat it now. Back in 2004, I said that we started developing these new systems as our response to the unilateral withdrawal of the United States from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty.

I also mentioned the system we have now called Avangard, a missile system of intercontinental range. It is not a ballistic missile; it flies along a flat trajectory and can change direction and altitude.

This is an absolute weapon, as far as the present day is concerned. More than Mach 20, 20 times the speed of sound, I do not think that any other country will have such weapons any time soon, although, of course, someday they will appear, and, as I said, this does not bother us, because we already have it.

Now about what we have, and what we do not. The Kinzhal [Dagger] high-precision hypersonic aero-ballistic missile that flies at Mach 10 is already in service with our army in the Southern Federal District, as I have already said. If anyone doubts this, they can look and see, we made a point of demonstrating the launch of this missile. This is one.

Two. The laser combat complex is also already in service.

Further, I have already said but I want to repeat that the Avangard system is already in industrial production, serial production, and in 2019, we plan to supply it to the Armed Forces.

In 2020, we plan to supply our most powerful strategic missile systems in the Armed Forces, a new ballistic missile, the super-powerful missile system, Sarmat. We are developing the project that I mentioned.

These are two products with nuclear engines, a nuclear propulsion system, a small propulsion system, a global-range missile and an underwater unmanned vehicle. In either case, we have completed the main stage of development, I mean the tests of this nuclear propulsion system.

Some minor things need to be completed as scheduled. The work is going exactly according to plan, in accordance with planned procedures. I have no doubt that they will be put into service with the Russian Army on schedule.

Those who doubt this also had doubts about the Avangard system in 2004. I have already said that we used them in Syria. However, this is not all that we plan to produce and put into service. As I said in the Address, it is too early to talk about it, but we will talk about it soon enough.



Andrei Kondrashov:

We have been at it for over three hours, yet the number of questions is not decreasing.

We now go over to our colleague Natalya Yuryeva in the call centre. Please, go ahead.



Natalya Yuryeva:

Thank you, Andrei.

We have a question on a completely different topic, we already discussed it a year ago, during last year’s Direct Line, however, the problem only seems to have grown.

People’s submissions to Direct Line regarding environmental issues were studied shoulder to shoulder by volunteer Irina Levicheva, and by a volunteer of both the 1985 and the 2017 World Youth Festival Olga Kuzina, while Katya Omelchenko not only has an educational background in the environment, she has spent the past 13 years on volunteer projects in ecology.

The floor is yours.



Irina Levicheva:

Good afternoon, Mr President.

The most urgent messages of the thousand that we have analysed concern landfills, illegal dumps as well as the question of how to get rid of rubbish – to burn or recycle. For example, rubbish is dumped at sites that have already been closed – in the village of Mashkovo, Vladimir Region, in the township of Novy, the city of Pyatigorsk, in the town of Lgov, Kurgan Region – for the simple reason that it is free.

For instance, in Novy Svet, Leningrad Region and in the Peski district of Chita things got so bad that dump sites appeared close to residential areas. Most of the messages came from Moscow Region residents where dump sites have been a major issue since last year. The Aleksinsky pit in the town of Klin, Sychevo township in Volokolamsky district, and Orekhovo-Zuyevsky district.

Residents in the regions adjacent to Moscow Region are also worried. They fear that they will be simply buried in Moscow rubbish. Unfortunately, the number of such submissions is very high.



Olga Kuzina:

I personally called the heads of administrations in different regions, I tried to call the governors but there were few responses.







For example, after our letter with a request to clear an unauthorised dump site in Leningrad Region on the territory of the Monument to the Unknown Soldier. The territory is so littered, however, that the officials we got in touch with said that they did everything, but in reality all they did was move the rubbish away from the monument.

But there is also the positive example of Yaroslavl Region authorities which reacted quickly, in a business-like manner and immediately set about solving the problem.



Yekaterina Omelchenko:

Based on the other part of the complaint, it appears that people are simply afraid of waste incineration plants because the ones in operation are not complying with modern environmental standards.

We have received a lot of complaints from cities where these plants are already operating – in Moscow Region, the Urals and the Far East. There was a stack of complaints from the village of Novoye Devyatkino in Leningrad Region. There is a plant there that works like a potbelly stove and people simply cannot breathe. People are against burning trash but they support the processing of waste.

In different cities, people unite to form environmental organisations and practice the separated collection of trash. Thus, residents in the village of Novolokinskaya in Krasnodar Territory collect over 400 kg of batteries a year. Tatyana Filimonova and residents of the city of Obninsk have established the movement “Clean Obninsk” and sort rubbish right on their balconies. We were even addressed by entrepreneurs that are ready to invest in recycling because everyone will benefit from it.

We, the current generation, I am 30, are ready to shoulder the responsibility for our future. As an environmental expert, I want to see in this future clean cities, clean air, clean forests and rivers. I do not simply want this like many people do whose complaints we received, but I am ready to bear responsibility for it, I am ready to act.

Entrepreneurs, environmental experts, citizens and simply all people that are not indifferent, are ready for this. But there is no infrastructure, no industry for deep recycling. Mr Putin, maybe we should pool the efforts of the citizens, the environmental experts, entrepreneurs and the state?



Vladimir Putin:

This is a very important and urgent matter. Thankfully, we have been paying increased attention to it recently.

What can I say regarding your questions and the concern you have indicated? Everyone knows very well that rubbish was seldom utilised in Soviet times. That is, it was utilised in a very specific way: it was taken to landfills and left to rot there.

If memory serves, we now produce some 70 million tonnes of waste a year. This is a huge figure, and it is getting bigger. We must definitely get down to this problem.

We have approximately 1,100 landfills that are in a more or less decent condition, while tens of thousands of landfills – take note of the figure – are operating off the books, or are not properly registered and are nothing more than waste dumps.

This is absolutely unacceptable. Some of these operations are criminal. What do we plan to do and what must we do as soon as possible?

First, speaking of waste plants, which cause concern among the local residents because they burn waste. There are different ways to utilise rubbish, including without burning it. We have more than a hundred waste burning plants – I think there are 17 of them, but only several dozen, or some 38 utilisation plants that employ more or less modern technology.

We must change this radically. We must build 200 of the planned 285 waste utilisation plants by 2024. We are not speaking about some primitive burning methods, which would only complicate the environmental situation, but about cutting-edge facilities with modern technology.

As far as I know, the media have shown how such plants operate in other countries, for example in Japan, where they are located in the middle of large cities and residential areas. These plants are working very well and do not cause any complaints from the people who live nearby. This is the path we should follow.

Of course, this should be done in close contact with volunteers, with such organisation as yours, as well as with the Russian Popular Front, which has done a great deal to bring this problem to light. We must also continue to monitor developments in this area. And we need to do this with federal and regional authorities. The effectiveness of dealing with this issue largely depends on the regional authorities, including governors.

And lastly, concerning personal responsibility for dealing with these issues. This responsibility should be assigned to the Government and the Natural Resources Ministry, and we have a very experienced person who has been put in charge of this. It is Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Gordeyev, who should coordinate the work of various agencies, ministries and regions. Mr Gordeyev is on the line, and so let us give him the floor.

Mr Gordeyev.



Alexei Gordeyev:

Good afternoon. Mr President, you have named practically all the figures and formulated the tasks for the Government of the Russian Federation, for the ministries and agencies. I would like to add just a few figures. Only 8 percent out of those 70 million tonnes is processed today and, of course, this problem has been building up over a long while.

What is the Government doing right now? We are getting ready for the coming into effect of the new waste-handling rules and regulations in keeping with federal legislation. This will happen on January 1, 2019, that is, in six months’ time. I will mention just a few clauses to show what will be happening.

Each region will have to draw up and approve a territorial arrangement for handling waste and it has become mandatory to hold public discussions of these territorial arrangements.

Furthermore, each region will identify regional operators, specialised companies that will organise these business activities and will be held accountable. The regions will also approve standardised tariffs, which are also a matter of concern for the residents.

You have said how many processing complexes will have to be built. They will use totally new technologies, and a relevant Strategy has already formulated this task, which has been approved.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr Gordeyev, we are broadcasting live and have a lot of questions. Your information is very important. Could you put it in a nutshell, please?



Alexei Gordeyev:

I would like to say one last thing, which should be of great interest to the volunteers and environmentalists considering the things they have focused on. The Government is finalising a unified information website, Our Nature, for both the oversight agencies and the public. Members of the public will be able to monitor online how the whole waste turnover chain operates.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Alexei Gordeyev, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Government, on the tasks ahead.



Vladimir Putin:

Look, this is very important, I even decided against speaking about it. The important thing is not only that these strategies are formulated at the national and regional levels but also that they are implemented and everything I was talking about is put into practice.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Another important point is that, of course, this is of interest not only to the volunteers but to everyone who lives in this country.



Vladimir Putin:

Here is a question: “Volodya, aren’t you tired?” No, not yet.

I have taken notice of several other questions. Let me read them out. We have just heard from Mr Gordeyev, who is considered and really is a good agriculture professional.

Here is one of the questions: “Why is cow meat called beef?” Maybe we should redirect this question to Mr Gordeyev? Mr, Gordeyev, why is cow meat called beef?



Alexei Gordeyev:

Mr President, I am sorry, but I cannot answer this question as a professional. I need to look it up in a dictionary.







Vladimir Putin:

See? And people expect an answer from me. Even you, an agriculture professional, cannot tell us.

Anyway, here are some other questions. “Government awards to Sergei Shoigu? What for?” For good performance.

“When will a state-owned company stop financing Ekho Moskvy?” They are probably referring to Gazprom. There is more about traitors and the like. I will not comment on this now, but it is a fact that Gazprom is indeed financing this radio station, but it does not interfere with its editorial policy. This is proof that we respect the principle of freedom of the media, although I agree that a great many things they argue for require very serious filtration.

Here are some more questions. “Why are women not allowed to enrol in the Warrant Officer Candidate School?” Indeed, this is strange, because the number of female military personnel is growing. I do not know why they cannot be not enrolled in the Warrant Officer Candidate School. I do not even know if we have warrant officers any more. Women are very successful in our army, and there are many areas where they can and do serve very successfully, including in communications and medicine.



Andrei Kondrashov:

They also serve in the air force, Mr President. You have been told about an all-female air force group.



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, they also serve in the air force. “The roads in Mozdok. You are talking about breakthrough improvements, but Mozdok roads are terrible.” I think we should talk about this. Indeed, roads are a problem in the country, and not only in Mozdok. But we need a breakthrough so as to settle such problems.

“Nine thousand plants were built after the Great Patriotic War, yet there are not enough jobs today.” This is not quite true. Many of the 9,000 plants that were built after the war have become obsolete and did not meet the new standards even back in the Soviet times. This is why we have system-wide problems in the economy.

“Queues in government agencies.” We have created integrated government service centres that are operating across the country. But if you write about queues, it means that we should continue to open more such centres.

“Government officials go abroad for medical treatment.” Personally, I do not do that. Overall, we need to improve our healthcare system, so that not only officials but all other citizens have access to quality medical services in the country, and so that we attain all our demographic goals and increase life expectancy and the quality of life in the country. We are preparing a programme on these issues, and we will work consistently to implement it.

A question about the Volga, which is becoming shallow. Yes, this is a problem. However, as far as I know, the situation is improving. But there is still much more to do, for purely objective reasons.

Next, “Bring back the GOST [national standard] on dairy products.” The GOST is not the issue; the issue is quality control – and control over the standards if they are brought back.

“Build a bridge to Sakhalin over the term of your presidency.” I know that this is an issue of concern for the people living on Sakhalin. I also know that some of Sakhalin Region’s resources and revenue (and it is a successful region) are directed to the Fund for the Development of the Russian Far East.

It goes without saying that we need to assess this issue from different angles, in terms of the economic efficiency and the workload of the bridge. We will consider the geopolitical situation and the importance of developing infrastructure in the north of Khabarovsk Territory. All these aspects will be considered in the discussion of this issue.

“Build football stadiums in the Urals, to the east of the Urals and in the Far East.” We need to see first how the stadiums in the European part of Russia operate after the World Cup. The fact that the sports infrastructure must develop in the Far East and the Urals is absolutely obvious.

“The West will not recognise al-Assad. Why did you recognise Poroshenko?” Interesting question.

Now, the sports centre in Sevastopol. The name was mentioned but I did not have a chance to write it down. I want to address Governor Ovsyannikov regarding the matter. I hope he hears me and understands, which children’s sports centre I am talking about and responds accordingly.

Yakornaya Shchel and the state of beaches in the area. Based on what we saw on the screen, the area is far from its best condition. It was pointed out that it is the responsibility of Russian Railways.

You know, Russian Railways is working very hard because the sea constantly washes out the soil in these areas, and it is necessary to maintain the railway tracks in good operating condition. Russian Railways invests rather large funds into this effort.

But because this caught your attention, I will also try to make sure that the local officials and Russian Railways managers get back to this problem.

“Round timber to China.” You know, thank you for mentioning this, for drawing my attention to it. Many decisions have already been made to stimulate timber processing in Russia.

We are building additional timber processing plants, including, by the way, with the help of Chinese investment. However, I will look into this once again. Thank you for pointing this out.

“Nationalise the oil industry.” You know, we have talked about this many times. Perhaps it is true and we should not have, as they said, “appointed” new billionaires and handed over the oil industry to private individuals at the time. Perhaps. That was done at great risks and without sufficient grounds, but what is done is done.

What we could take back at the last minute, we did. I am talking, for example, about state-controlled companies forming the controlling stake in Gazprom, and in order to form the controlling stake in the largest oil company, Rosneft.

Nationalising the oil industry is a complicated and very dangerous process that can have a negative impact not only on the industry, but on the entire economy. I will not go into detail right now, but it is not that simple. What is our main goal?

We need to make sure that, whoever owns these companies operates legally, invests in production and development of domestic processing and fully delivers on their obligations to the budget. These companies must perform efficiently and compete with their partners in the global market. And in fact, our oil industry has been able to do it.

Now, mortgage and interest rates. We have already mentioned this several times.

I think this is it for now.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr President, we have a lot more phone calls.



Vladimir Putin:

Let us hear them.



Kirill Kleymenov:

People still hope to get through. Let us take some more calls if we can.



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, do please.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Natalya, please.



Natalya Yuryeva:

Thank you, Kirill.

Yes, it is true, people from many cities call to complain about not getting their salary paid. People are desperate: they have no money to buy food, to pay rent or mortgage. There are a lot of such complaints, an entire package. We will hand it over to you, Mr President, after the programme.

But there is a new problem. We hear that state-paid workers did not have much time to enjoy their increased salaries, because in April, right after the presidential election, the salary was reduced back to the previous level. For instance, in the Novocherkassk Psychiatric Hospital a nurse’s salary was reduced almost by half, from 20,000 rubles to 11,000 rubles. The same complaint comes from medical staff in the town of Belogorsk in Amur Region, from drivers at the St Petersburg State Unitary Enterprise Tsentr, and from kindergarten personnel in Omsk.

We have a call on this problem from Yakutia. Mikhail Vaganov, please, ask your question.



Mikhail Vaganov:

Good afternoon, Mr President.

I have a question if I may. My name is Mikhail Vaganov, and I am a teacher at a state vocational college in Yakutsk, in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).

In accordance with your May Executive Orders, on January 1, 2018, my salary increased to about 60,000 rubles. But only for three months. In April, the salary was reduced again. I was told that there were instructions to maintain the average regional salary during the first quarter of 2018. I would like to ask you, was the salary increase temporary or will it be permanent?

Thank you for the opportunity to talk to you. I would like to congratulate you on your victory in the presidential election and wish you success in your demanding work.



Vladimir Putin:

Thank you very much for the wishes, for your support and for your question. It is an important one.

I have already mentioned that the salary levels in the public sector, including schools, colleges and universities should be not only maintained, but also multiplied. They should be gradually increased to reach the average regional wage or average wage in the industry, depending on the case.

What you are talking about is related to the beginning of a new fiscal year. But I warned my colleagues in the regions: never ever must you cut salaries, only increase them, in accordance with the growing incomes in different industries or in the regions.

Using this opportunity, I would like to again draw the regional heads’ attention to this issue. We will certainly discuss it at the next meeting of the State Council. I will ask both the Executive Office and the Russian Government, the relevant ministers to analyse the situation and report on what is going on as soon as possible.

As for the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), we have a video link-up with the new Acting Governor. I would like you to comment on this, please.



Aisen Nikolayev:

Mr President, we will deal with this situation. There was a wage rise in the Republic. There should not be any cuts. The Republican Ministry of Education will take action on this as soon as tomorrow. I believe decisions will be made to fully implement your May Executive Orders.



Vladimir Putin:

I certainly hope so. I count on that. You are the person who knows the situation in the Republic; you have worked there for a long time. You are not there by accident, you are not an outsider. I am expecting a report from you.



Aisen Nikolayev:

Thank you, Mr President. I will work this out and report back to you.



Vladimir Putin:

Thank you.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Now we are switching to the country’s main construction site, which is also the most beautiful construction site, the Crimean Bridge. Our correspondent Nikolai Dolgachev is working there on the Kuban side. He is live now. Please.



Nikolai Dolgachev:

Moscow, hello from Krasnodar Territory.

I am standing at the very beginning of the traffic route across the Kerch Strait, on the road leading up to the Crimean Bridge. It is only three weeks since the bridge was opened to traffic and already almost 300,000 vehicles have used it. Two regions are now connected by a reliable and convenient transit. There you can see Krasnodar Territory on the horizon. The weather is good; the Crimean shore is well visible. The road veers to the right and then onto the bridge where, straight ahead of you, is Crimea. This year, even before the summer season started, more than a million tourists arrived in Crimea – mainly thanks to this road. This is an important spot, the transport police checkpoint that stops vehicles before they go onto the bridge (not all of them, of course, because this is a random check, involving around five percent of the traffic). Today we have already spoken to both police officers and some drivers. But they can speak for themselves.

Hi, how are you? How is work? Is there a lot of traffic or not so much? How is it going?



Remark:

No incidents. The amount of traffic is increasing every day.



Nikolai Dolgachev:

You look so tough. Have you just spotted a violator?



Remark:

Not at all, this is a routine check. We checked the driver and let him go ahead.



Nikolai Dolgachev:

Hello, where are you from, where are you going and why?



Remark:

My wife and I have lived in Kerch for a year. Now we are using the Crimean Bridge. We are very happy, just like all residents of Crimea, and, I believe, of Krasnodar Territory. We really looked forward to the bridge opening.



Nikolai Dolgachev:

I can see you have your child in the back seat.



Remark:

Yes, our son. Of course, he is travelling with us.



Nikolai Dolgachev:

He is asleep, we will not disturb him. But you have a unique opportunity. We are now live on the Direct Line with the President. You can ask him a question if you like.



Question:

Good afternoon, Mr Putin. Unfortunately, not all roads in our country are of such high quality as the Crimean bridge and the access roads to it. It would be desirable, of course, to ensure they are all of the same standard.

In this connection, I would like to ask a question. Are there plans to increase funding for the construction of new roads, and for the maintenance of existing ones? And if so, what ambitious projects are planned for the near future?



Vladimir Putin:

Thank you for asking.

In one way or another, the topic of road construction comes up regularly and for a reason. We have a vast country, and transportation issues are always important. It is precisely because of the vast expanses that not enough has been done in some places. It simply came about historically.

Look, we already planned to build a road in the 1960s to link the Far East with the European part of the country. We started in the 1960s, then tried again in the late 1980s to early 1990s. In both cases, the project was abandoned. Just recently, we have built the first road, Chita – Khabarovsk, where I had to drive the Lada Kalina (the pictures were here). The vastness of Russia’s territory causes some of these problems.

But one of the priority tasks that we must fulfill in the next six-year period is spatial development, the unity and connectedness of the territory, which largely depends on road construction. If today federal roads are in a more or less decent condition, the number of regional roads that are in a satisfactory state is not even half of that. We must ensure that not only federal, but also regional roads are in satisfactory condition.

They need to grow to at least 50 percent, and the necessary resources have been provided for that. From 2012 to 2017, we spent a total of about 5.1 trillion rubles on road construction. We plan to nearly double this spending in the next six years. Approximately 9.6–9.7–9.5 trillion rubles will be spent on road construction in various regions of the Russian Federation.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Thank you, Nikolai, and thanks to your guest.

Now we are moving to the other end of the Crimean Bridge, to Kerch. Olga Armyakova, you are on.



Olga Armyakova:

Here is the sea gate of the Crimean Bridge, its snow-white arches, which holidaymakers see when they reach Crimea. The bridge is a new symbol of Crimea as a tourist destination. You can get a good view of the bridge from the highest point of Kerch, the top of Mount Mithridat, where our crew is working. This is the location of the Eternal Flame and the Glory Monument, the everlasting memory of the heroic deeds of the Great Patriotic War. Also, Mount Mithridat has a stunning view of the entire city and is one of its main landmarks. It is a fact that the number of tourists in Kerch and in the rest of Crimea has risen. New roads are being built to cope with increased traffic. Crimea is welcoming the latest tourist season in a very new environment. However, there are certain problems, too.

We have here people of varied occupations from Kerch, from Crimea. They are ready to talk to you.

Please, you have the floor.



Dmitry Stupnikov:

Good afternoon, Mr President.

My name is Dmitry Stupnikov, I am a businessman, co-founder of a company in Kerch. We deal with catering and children’s summer recreation, as well as fitness and sports services.

First, I would like to thank you on behalf of Kerch residents and the whole of Crimea for making our dream come true and enabling us to experience this historic event. Thank you for the construction and launch of this tremendous and graceful structure, the Crimean Bridge, ahead of schedule, in time for the beginning of the summer season. Thank you.

On the very first day, we welcomed a huge number of tourists and guests. Our services are becoming increasingly popular. However, food prices in Crimea are still high.

So this is my question: when will the prices go down in Crimea? Even if they cannot match the level of those in Krasnodar Territory, when might they come close to it? Thank you.



Vladimir Putin:

You know, I understand your question and I am aware of the problem. The thing is that prices of some goods and services in Crimea are lower than in neighbouring regions, Krasnodar Territory and Rostov Region. But some of them are higher. I count upon the opening of the bridge and the beginning of cargo transit. I think the mutual flow of goods will allow prices to stabilise and even out between the regions. We should move towards this and I think it will happen eventually. First of all, it depends on the launch of freight traffic.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Mr Putin, this is hardly directly related to Crimea, but look, this question came through the social networks: have you considered the possibility of exchanging Russian journalist Kirill Vyshinsky for director Oleg Sentsov condemned in Crimea? I am saying “director” because it says director here.



Vladimir Putin:

You know our journalist, Vyshinsky, right?



Andrei Kondrashov:

Kirill Vyshinsky.



Vladimir Putin:

He has been detained and put in custody in Ukraine for his direct professional activity, for carrying out his duties as a journalist. This is an absolutely unprecedented and unacceptable policy of the current authorities in Ukraine, and this assessment should be adequately reflected in the response of the journalistic community and international human rights organisations.

As for the other person involved, Mr Sentsov, he was detained in Crimea, not for journalistic activities, but for preparing a terrorist attack, for planning an explosion that targeted specific people. These are completely different things. Different and disparate. Therefore, we have not yet thought about this. I am thinking about something else though – that common sense should prevail in Ukraine. I hope that we will manage to secure the release of the Russian journalist, including through pressure from international organisations, on which the Ukrainian authorities depend in one way or another.



Kirill Kleimyonov:

Let us once again move to the centre that processes telephone calls and messages. Natalya Yuryeva, over to you.



Natalya Yuryeva:

Thank you, Kirill.

People contact the message processing centre from all over the world – from Japan to the United States of America.

I suggest watching a video recorded by a young man from China. By the way, he is 15 years old and he is a participant in the Ask Putin a Question contest organised by Chinese television ahead of your visit for the SCO summit.



Question:

Good afternoon, Mr Putin! I am a student and user of the China Central Television app. I would like to take this opportunity to ask you the following questions.

Have you ever travelled on high-speed trains in China? And are you going to adopt this or other Chinese inventions in Russia?



Vladimir Putin:

I have not travelled on high-speed trains in China yet, but I know that a trip is planned with Chairman Xi Jinping, and I will soon be able to appreciate China’s achievements in this area.

We are negotiating with our Chinese friends on the implementation of one of our programmes, the Moscow-Kazan high-speed railway project. I expect that we will reach an agreement, and this will contribute to the further strengthening and development of our ties with the People’s Republic of China.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Natalya, we can take one more question, please.



Natalya Yuryeva:

Thank you.

Russian school graduates are currently taking the Unified State Exam in the Russian language. But instead of studying, many recorded their video questions to you, Mr President.

Young people are mainly interested in their future; they ask the President for advice about the best professions and the most reliable employers.

Leonid Pozdnyakov from Lobnya, Moscow Region, will only take the Unified State Exam in several years, but he is already concerned about what is awaiting him. Let us listen to his video address.



Leonid Pozdnyakov:

Good afternoon, Mr President. I am Leonid Pozdnyakov, a 9-th year student in Lobnya. I have the following question:

The Minister of Education said that from 2020 a mandatory exam in Russian history and in 2022 a mandatory exam in a foreign language will be introduced. My question is: will the elective exam option be abandoned, and if not, how can we possibly prepare for six exams?



Vladimir Putin:

Mr Pozdnyakov, I can honestly say that I am not aware of any such initiatives from the ministry. However, I understand your concern. A large number of exams can become an obstacle to a deeper study of the subjects that you prioritise.

Let us listen to the Minister of Education. As I understand, it was the ministry’s initiative.



Olga Vasilyeva:

Good afternoon, Mr President. Good afternoon, Mr Pozdnyakov, I will answer your question with great pleasure.

Indeed, the exams are in progress. Right now, some 731,000 Russian school students are taking the Unified State Exams that Mr Pozdnyakov is asking about. I want to tell Mr Pozdnyakov and everyone else who is listening that we have two compulsory exams, Russian and mathematics, while in the mid-1950s Russian students took 11 exams on average and, in subsequent years, five or seven compulsory exams.

Currently, there are two compulsory exams, Russian and mathematics, advanced and basic courses. The other exams are optional. Usually it is one optional exam, with the student choosing the third subject based on their future career and the university where they want to study. Therefore, Mr Pozdnyakov should not worry, it is not six but only three.

As for English, Mr Putin, indeed, after consulting with experts and education professionals, we envisage introducing it from 2022; we are introducing pilot foreign language exams in 19 regions in 2020.

Only 11.5 percent of students are taking foreign language exams this year, while it is difficult to imagine working and living without English as it is a universal world language. Therefore, most students out of the 11.5 percent are taking English, but there are also some who are sitting exams in German and French this year, and also Chinese.

Why, in my opinion, is Mr Pozdnyakov concerned? I think it is because the exams will be difficult. Indeed, today there are problems with English. According to high school standards, we need to introduce a foreign language exam as one of the two compulsory ones, or as a third compulsory exam, by 2022.

In order to solve these problems – and we have talked about this in the ministry a lot – the following is necessary. We need to provide better training for our teachers. Right now, there is a shortage of foreign language teachers and their training leaves much to be desired.

We are basing our assessment on research and national surveys from 2016, which show particularly bad results in foreign languages. We need new teaching methods, especially in schools. But most importantly, the students themselves must be motivated to learn.

Therefore, my earnest belief is that in the modern world it is impossible to convey everything important, the best that our country can offer, without a foreign language, a language of international communication.

I can tell you more, Mr President. Starting next year, we are introducing new requirements for students’ command of English, even in secondary vocational education. Because it is ridiculous when a highly qualified worker cannot read an instruction manual or notes about a machine. This is absurd.

So far as history is concerned, it is an issue that can be and will be discussed. Sorry, I am about to finish. But I want to be sure Mr Pozdnyakov has heard me. The expert community is discussing history.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Thank you. The education topic continues in our programme. We received a message from the residents of a village in Altai Territory, and my colleague Oleg Shishkin went there.



Oleg Shishkin:

Good afternoon, Moscow! We are in the village of Staraya Surtaika, Altai Territory. It stands on the famous Chuisky Tract, a road from Novosibirsk to the Mongolian border. It is 3,300 kilometres away from Moscow. The nature is really beautiful here.

Vasily Shukshin’s birthplace – the village of Srostki – is not far from here. The older generation surely remembers such films as There Lives Such a Lad and Pechki-Lavochki. Those films have become classics and they were shot by Vasily Shukshin in his homeland, in Altai, right around here.

Now the village has 400 residents. We are standing close to the local school, which has 47 students – it is a small school , and it has just one first-grader. The school has been here for 19 years, and according to the locals, it has never been thoroughly renovated even though the foundation and the porch need repairing. But this is not critical; it is all solvable.

There is one problem that the locals are unable to solve, and they turned to the Direct Line with this problem. So we came here specially to let the people speak directly to the Head of State.

Please tell us your name and what worries you.



Alena Reger:

My name is Alena Reger, I am a resident of Staraya Surtaika, Altai Region.

We have only one school in our village, and children from three villages study here until grade nine. A month ago, we had a meeting of the local residents, and the head of the district administration said that the school will be shut down. I have two grandchildren, the eldest will start school next year.

And where will he go if the school is closed? We will have to sell everything and move away. I do not want to leave, we have lived here for 40 years. If the school is closed, the village will die.

Mr President, please, help us. Do not let them close the school.



Natalya Pushkinova:

I would like to follow up on that.

Mr President, good afternoon. My name is Natalya Pushkinova, I live in the village of Staraya Surtaika. My grandson goes to this school, he will start 4th grade.

When we go to the local administration, the district education department, we get conflicting answers. I personally went to the education department, where they told me that “on June 15, we will take the papers to the prosecutor’s office and your school will be shut down because it is understaffed.”

Our school is 19 years old. It has never been repaired since it was opened. It is easier for our bureaucrats to shut it down than to repair it. They say, “your children will be bussed to the village of Bystryanka.” This is seven kilometres from where we live. It is inconvenient for us to send our children there. The first grade has classes from 8 to 11, and the bus back home only leaves three hours later. What will happen to our children? They will be cold and hungry. And in winter?

Mr Putin, please help us to solve this problem, otherwise the village will perish. If the school is closed, the village will perish like the two other villages on the Chuisky Tract – Obraztsovka and Dolina Svoboda.



Vladimir Putin:

I understand the problem. Yours is not the only such case. We constantly talk about the problem of schools with too few students.

By the way, how many children attend your school?



Alena Reger:

Forty-seven.



Vladimir Putin:

You see, 47 students. That is not such a small school. Forty-seven students is quite a big number.

As far as I understand, the problem is the technical condition of the school and the shortage of teachers.

We know well that under-attended schools are quite costly because the money spent to maintain the building and hire teachers could pay for a school with 100 or 200 and not 40 or 50 students. But as I pointed out many times, and the callers have said the right thing, maybe the key thing: when a school is shut down the village perishes. Meanwhile our aim is to make sure that people do not leave, especially in such regions as Siberia, Eastern Siberia and the Far East, that the village lives on and has a future.

We have a whole programme for school development, including the purchase of transport under the School Bus programme, under which 2.5 million rubles are to be allocated from the federal budget alone. In general I would like the governor (the acting governor, who is on the line now) to address this problem and help preserve this school. I think it must be done. Let us give him the floor, let us hear from him.



Viktor Tomenko:

Mr Putin, inhabitants of the village of Staraya Surtaika who have filed a complaint. Regarding the school. It is a school branch actually. It does not have the required number of pupils and teachers. But there are no plans to shut it down. The municipal heads who had a meeting and delivered information to the villagers must have mixed things up. I have assumed my duties only recently, but I will look into this specific case very closely together with the local self-government bodies and, most importantly, with the village residents, and the issue will be resolved. The school has a future, and the village has a future.



Vladimir Putin:

Thank you for your answer. I hope it will satisfy the people who live in this village.

You have very nice kids. I hope everything will turn out well and they will be able to go to school near their home.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Now we have St Petersburg on the line. My colleague Dmitry Petrov is there. It is a unique story. Over to Dmitry.



Dmitry Petrov:

I am at the Kirov Military Medical Academy in St Petersburg, Department of Military Traumatology and Orthopaedics. They treat those who were injured in battle or during military exercises. Irina Barakat is receiving treatment here in Ward 21.

Hello, Irina. May we come in? Irina was caught under fire in June 2016. The neighbourhood in Aleppo, Syria, where she lived was attacked with improvised bombs made from gas canisters. One of them hit the house where her family was. Irina saw it and covered her youngest children with her body (here is a photo). She was heavily wounded in a mine explosion. She was in a coma for five days but she survived.

We met her exactly a month before this tragic event, when we were reporting from Aleppo on the work of our military experts from the reconciliation group. Irina was helping us – she worked as an interpreter in the negotiations with the armed opposition. But she was not and is not now a Russian citizen. She was born and raised in Odessa, married a Syrian citizen and moved to Aleppo.

So, not being a Russian citizen she actually served Russia and did everything to bring about peace in Syria. When this misfortune happened, our military did not abandon her; they flew her to the Military Medical Academy in St Petersburg. They have been fighting for her health and her life for two years now. Unfortunately, medicine is not all-powerful, and there are still problems. Therefore, Irina turned to Direct Line to ask the President for help.

Irina, you have a chance to talk with Vladimir Putin. He is listening to you.



Irina Barakat:

Good afternoon, Mr President.



Vladimir Putin:

Good afternoon, Ira.



Irina Barakat:

Thank you for taking notice of my request. I am also grateful to Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu for helping me and for delivering me for medical treatment from Syria to the Military Medical Academy in St Petersburg. I am grateful to military doctors for taking care of me for the past two years, saving my life and helping me recover and providing moral support. They have saved my leg, which I could have lost. This is what I looked like in the past. (Shows a photo)

I want to live a normal life. I want to be able to walk. I need a good functional prosthetic leg, but I cannot get it because I am not a Russian citizen.

Mr President, I ask you to help me to obtain Russian citizenship. But the most important thing is that I have not seen my children and my husband for two years. They miss me, and I miss them as well. They cannot come here because they are Syrian nationals. It is very difficult for Syrians to come to Russia. I am a Ukrainian citizen and hence cannot send them an invitation. I ask you to help me see my children and be reunited with my family. Thank you.



Vladimir Putin:

I have spoken about our attitude to granting Russian citizenship to our compatriots and those who see themselves as part of the greater Russian world. This concerns above all Ukrainian citizens, no matter where they live. It also concerns other people who, as I have said, consider themselves to be part of the Russian world regardless of their ethnicity or religion.

Yours is a special case, of course. What happened to you is a big tragedy. I hope your children know that their mother is getting better. I wish you all the best. I also want to thank the military doctors who are helping you. I am confident that you will regain health inasmuch as this is possible in your case. We know about your injuries. Such people as you deserve to be given assistance, and you will receive it in the amount necessary to ensure that your family lives happily.

I will ask my colleagues at the Defence Ministry to find your relatives and bring them to Russia.

I will also do what you have asked me to do. The President of Russia has the power to grant citizenship. You will have it. Thank you.



Irina Barakat:

Thank you very much.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr Shoigu is listening to us, of course.



Vladimir Putin:

Mr Shoigu is listening.



Kirill Kleymenov:

We have been on the air for over four hours. There are many more questions, but here are some short ones that can be answered in a few words.

“Mr President, it is rumoured that the Crimean Bridge may become a toll bridge.”



Vladimir Putin:

No, under the current legislation, toll roads can only be built where there are alternative toll-free roads. There is no such alternative for entering Crimea by car, so the Crimean Bridge will be a toll-free bridge.



Kirill Kleymenov:

That settles it.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Which presidents and prime ministers are on first-name terms with you?



Kirill Kleymenov:

This question also concerns languages where the same word is used in both formal and informal situations. The author is probably asking about friendly relations.



Vladimir Putin:

We know that this is the case in English, where “you” is the only second person pronoun. But this is not so in French, German and several other languages.

I have informal or friendly relations with very many of my colleagues. For example, we are on a first name basis with the Prime Minister of Japan, also with the Federal Chancellor of Germany, the President of France. But I am always formal with some of my other colleagues, for example, with President of the Czech Republic Mr Zeman. He is my senior, so I think it right to do so.

Almost all of us are on a first name basis. I believe this is very important, because mutual respect in our line of work must prevail in any circumstances. It is a very useful instrument for dealing with serious interstate questions.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Are you preparing a successor?



Vladimir Putin:

This is a perennial question. Of course, I never stop thinking about this. I am not exactly training a successor, who must be chosen by the Russian people, the electorate. But I think about training a new generation of managers, responsible people who will be able to take on responsibility for Russia.



Andrei Kondrashov:

How do you decide who can be trusted?



Vladimir Putin:

You know, we do not think in such categories in my line of work. It is not trust that matters but guarantees, which is what I try to prioritise on the international stage and even on the domestic scene. There must be guarantees that decisions will be implemented.



Kirill Kleymenov:

Mr Putin,during the last presidential elections yougot a record number of votes. And we have received a lot of questions about how you feel in the absence of political competition. One question on our site reads, “Do you feel lonely on the political Olympus?”



Vladimir Putin:

No, I do not feel lonely because this is the case when one warrior in the field is no warrior. You see, you can achieve positive results, any results – and this is true not only of Russia but of any other country – only if you have an effective team of professional and like-minded people. I have such a team.



Andrei Kondrashov:

Mr Putin, this is not a blitz but perhaps the final question in our programme.

If we go back to the breakthrough you referred to in your Address and later at the St Petersburg Forum – of course, it is impossible without mobilisation – mobilisation of all the people who first unite and then accomplish this breakthrough. What would you tell the people that would not leave anyone indifferent?



Vladimir Putin:

When we talk about a breakthrough, in the expert community and during public discussions of various issues, the tasks the country faced in the 1930s and 1950s are always or often recalled.

I have to point out that in both cases the country’s survival was at stake. Because in the 1930s, when industrialisation and collectivisation were on the agenda and were carried out, the world was on the brink of war: the Nazis came to power in Germany, civil war broke out in Spain, and this threat was hanging over the world.

The late 1940s and early 1950s saw the emergence of a new, nuclear threat and the Soviet Union faced the challenge of developing its nuclear missile programme. All the country’s resources were concentrated on solving these tasks. At the time, everybody realised how important it was for the country’s survival.

Today there seems to be no such threat because we say, and I have mentioned it today when talking about our modern weapons systems, that security seems to be assured for a fairly long period.

We have a vast territory and huge mineral resources, and we also have well trained and educated people. But here is what I want all of us to know and keep in mind: if we lag behind in technological development; if we fail to speed up our economic growth by increasing labour efficiency by 5 percent at least, by introducing new technology, including artificial intelligence, digital economy, genetic achievements and so on; if we fail to attain the country’s spatial connectivity through new communication lines and roads; if we fail to develop aviation and rail infrastructure, as well as sea and river ports; and if we fail to pay proper attention to the vital areas of healthcare and education – if we fail to do all of this we will lag irrevocably behind, which will put our sovereignty into question.

Therefore, we must put to use all our resources, including intellectual, moral and financial ones, and realise that we have approached a crucial stage in our development. We must not just jump onto the train of technological progress at the last moment, but be at the forefront of this movement. Can we do this? Yes, we can, if we work together. This is the first thing.

The second is that in modern conditions there is no need to take emergency measures such as we used in the 1930s or 1950s. To attain the desired results in modern conditions, we must set our people free. We must make sure that everyone makes the most of their creative potential, something only free people can do.

Therefore, we must continue to improve our political system and the system of effective management. I say once again that we can attain this goal, and we will attain it. This calls for everyone to focus on their jobs. I know that we have many problems. I know that it seems many of these problems cannot be resolved. But we can do it, and we will do it if we work together.



Kirill Kleymenov:

I hope we will do it, and we will build the country of our dreams.

Mr President, thank you for this meeting. This was Direct Line with Vladimir Putin. Thank you.



Vladimir Putin:

I am grateful to everyone who took part in this meeting.

Colleagues, citizens and friends, I know that there are many more questions than we – I tried to answer today. Just like during our meetings in the past years, I assure you that we will analyse all the questions we have received. We will do everything we can to understand the current trends and your concerns, so that we can not only respond to individual questions but also take a general view of your concerns and subsequently make changes in the Government’s work over the next few years.

One more thing. I saw a message on the screen here. It said, “The country is asking questions, but I want to give you my support today.” I am grateful to everyone who thinks this way.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57692






Answers to journalists’ questions following Direct Line



After the Direct Line with Vladimir Putin, the President took questions from journalists.



June 7, 2018 - 16:45 - Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Good afternoon.



Question:

Mr President, which questions did you expect to hear, which were not asked? Perhaps, you would like to hear them.



Vladimir Putin:

You know, the questions started pouring in several days prior to the event and, on the whole, I have said this many times and will repeat it, the amount of data accumulates, so, generally it becomes clear a few days before what worries people. Of course, the wording may differ, but the topics that worry people are already clear and understood.

I will be frank: certainly, before coming here today, I met with my colleagues, heads of various departments at the Presidential Executive Office and members of the Government. Yesterday and last night, we exchanged opinions and looked at how things were proceeding and where. This was how we prepared. Today, we heard pretty much everything we expected.



Question:

Awhile back, there was an outcry around an incident involving State Duma deputy and Head of the Committee on International Affairs Leonid Slutsky.



Vladimir Putin:

What was this about?



Question:

Several female reporters accused him of sexually harassing them, on their own behalf, publicly, not anonymously. There was an outcry in the media and later the case was dealt with by the Duma Commission on Ethics, and, judging by the transcript, which leaked out to the media, the commission actually did not even try to get to the bottom of the matter.

One of the women had an audio recording, from which it clearly follows that he indeed harassed her. However, it was decided that there was no ethical violation in his conduct. The matter just died down. Silence. Are you aware of this story? Or you are not, as far as I can see.



Vladimir Putin:

No.



Remark:

Then what is your opinion about this?



Vladimir Putin:

A) I have heard nothing about this, and b) I certainly have an opinion on it.

We see that certain people or certain organisations who specialise in protecting women's rights, are initiating major proceedings in some Western countries, in Hollywood, and bringing up incidents that are, as they acknowledge, 10, 20 or 30 years old.

You know, I believe that it is necessary to protect the rights of everyone, regardless of gender, age or religious beliefs. But the question is, why is it happening now? Why not ten years ago when the incident took place? This is my first point.

Second, I do not think that we need to make campaigns out of all these issues, certain ones in particular. And third, any civilised country has their own legal procedures for reviewing such conflicts. There are courts and law enforcement agencies, so I think they should deal with these issues.







Question:

A very serious question, Mr President. What kind of granddad are you? Do you have a grandson or a granddaughter? Are you a dutiful grandfather?



Vladimir Putin:

I have to confess, I do not have enough time. But it is complicated: if there is not enough time, that means I did not organise my time well, I understand that. But I would like to see my grandkids more, it is true.



Question:

Is he getting big?



Vladimir Putin:

Everybody does.



Question:

Do you bring new toys?



Vladimir Putin:

Everyone is healthy and all is well.



Question:

Do you at least give them toys?



Vladimir Putin:

Yes, I do.







Question:

Good afternoon, Mr President.

As we know, On May 25, Rosneft and Iraqi Kurdistan signed a gas development agreement. On May 9, the Prime Minister of Iraqi Kurdistan paid a visit to the Kremlin. How do you see future relations between Russia and Iraqi Kurdistan? In which areas and projects do you see a potential for growth? Thank you.



Vladimir Putin:

Historically speaking, we have always had very good relations with the people of Kurdistan. We appreciate their talent and aspiration to exercise their natural rights.

We see and understand what is happening in Iraq, and we know about the decisions taken at the referendum. We see that these decisions are being implemented in Iraqi Kurdistan and that this is being done within the framework of the integral Iraqi state.

We maintain contact with the authorities in Bagdad. We believe that all our plans regarding Iraq, including the region called Iraqi Kurdistan, are legal and promising, and that they are not aimed at interfering in conflicts or inciting any conflicts in Iraq. On the contrary, all our projects are aimed at promoting cooperation with Iraq, including Iraqi Kurdistan. These are promising, interesting and far-reaching projects. I hope they will be implemented.



Question:

Good afternoon, Mr President.

What is your attitude to the faked death of journalist Arkady Babchenko and the list of 47 Ukrainians whom Russia allegedly wants to take out?



Vladimir Putin:

I know nothing about this list. I only learned about it from the media, probably just like yourself. Any fake is counterproductive, whatever the reason for it, but especially if it attracts international attention. You know how your colleagues from international journalistic organisations have reacted to this. All of them have denounced this action by the Ukrainian authorities as a provocation.

I hope nothing like this will happen again. At the same time, all of us must think about how to ensure the safety of journalists and their work, protecting them from any pressure and guaranteeing journalists’ unconditional right to practice their trade, as well as the right of the public to have free access to information and to share information.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57693
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 12th, 2018 #851
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Vladimir Putin arrived in Qingdao



The President of Russia arrived in Qingdao to take part in the summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.



June 8, 2018 - 20:30 - Qingdao













The Russian President will also hold a number of bilateral meetings with his SCO colleagues.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57708






Meeting with President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev



Vladimir Putin met with President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Qingdao.



June 9, 2018 - 09:15 - Qingdao







The meeting took place on the sidelines of the SCO summit, which will be held on June 10.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, friends and colleagues, I am glad to meet with you again.

I would like to begin this meeting by saying that a great deal has changed, or more precisely, improved in our relations since your visit to Russia. Our trade is growing rapidly. I believe it increased by 33.9 or nearly 34 percent last year and by over 43 percent in January-March this year.

We are implementing large projects. Russia’s LUKOIL alone has invested $7 billion in Uzbekistan. We have established a green corridor on the border based on your initiative. Mutual trade in fruit and vegetables has been growing rapidly, by 35–36 percent. In short, our ties are improving. In addition to LUKOIL and Gazprom, other Russian companies are doing well in mechanical engineering and other areas. There are nearly 1,000 of such companies, both big and small.







The overall dynamics is very good. We will also meet in the framework of the CIS, and I remember about your invitation. I will be delighted to make a working visit to Uzbekistan somewhere in the autumn, as we planned.

I am very pleased to see you.







President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev:

Thank you.

Mr President, once again my congratulations on your re-election. In Uzbekistan, we all believe that Russia has secured its future and elected a worthy leader. My sincere congratulations to you.

Of course, as you have just noted, strategic partnership and alliance is an unfailing course of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy. This is unprecedented: in the past year, 70 delegations from Russia have visited Uzbekistan. There have been 21 regional visits. As you already said, the trade is growing, by over 40 percent over the first quarter.







We have some ambitious projects in the pipeline. You particularly noted the oil and gas industry. The Kandym Gas Processing Complex is unique, it is the largest in Central Asia. We built it with LUKOIL in two years. It was the fastest construction project for such a facility.

We work with all Russian companies in all sectors with great confidence, trust and dedication. If just a year ago, we could name only oil and gas companies, today I cannot name a single industry in which we do not cooperate.







Thank you very much. A green corridor has been created for farming produce. We had talked about that for a long time, ten or fifteen years. Thanks to your strong will, the amount of Uzbekistani produce entering the Russian market without intermediaries is growing, as you have said.

I think we have many things to talk about. We are expecting you with a state visit. We agreed on October. I think today we also have much to discuss with our colleagues.







My sincere thank you for appointing Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev chairman of the intergovernmental commission. I think this indicates your serious attitude to our cooperation. You yourself also pay great attention to it. This says a lot.

Based on the year’s results, we are anticipating some major projects, even in peaceful atom. We will also discuss the construction of a nuclear power plant. I have already met with Alexei Likhachev (Rosatom CEO) several times and we coordinated the details with your support. I think this will also be a strategic area of our cooperation.

I am glad to see you. Thank you very much.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57707






Meeting with President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon



Vladimir Putin met with President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon on the sidelines of the SCO summit.



June 9, 2018 - 10:00 - Qingdao








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, friends,

I am pleased to have this opportunity to meet you on the sidelines of this international event.

First of all, I would like to say that our strategic partnership continues to develop. I am delighted to say that Russia remains Tajikistan’s main trade and economic partner ahead of Kazakhstan and China.

In January-March 2018, our trade increased by another 18 percent. Work is proceeding quite actively. Our companies have invested nearly $2 billion in your economy.







We are also modernising your armed forces and training your military personnel. A total of 500 Tajikistani servicemen are studying at Russian Defence Ministry academies.

There are many security issues on our agenda in light of the complicated situation on your southern borders, that is, in Afghanistan. We will discuss them today.

We will also meet in Dushanbe in October.

I am pleased to see you today and to have this opportunity to carry on our work.



President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon:

Thank you, Mr President.

This is our first meeting since your re-election. I would like to congratulate you once again and to wish you strong health and success. I am pleased to have this meeting with you.

We highly appreciate the level of relations between our countries. I would like to use this occasion to discuss with you some aspects of our strategic partnership. Also, I would like to hold an in-depth discussion on regional security, including the situation on the Tajikistan-Afghanistan border.







Prime Minster Dmitry Medvedev recently paid an official visit to Tajikistan. We held detailed discussions on all aspects of our trade and economic cooperation.

I am pleased to meet with you.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57709






Meeting with President of Iran Hassan Rouhani



Vladimir Putin met with President of Iran Hassan Rouhani on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Qingdao.



June 9, 2018 - 10:45 - Qingdao








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, colleagues,

I am pleased to see you.

Iran has long been involved in the work of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. We are aware of your desire to join our organisation. You know Russia’s position on this issue. We will support your aspiration.







As for bilateral relations, I would like to say that our trade is growing, which is good news. There are good prospects.

We will also discuss other issues, of course, including regional stability and security. We have been working well together to settle the Syrian crisis. This is an issue for discussion because of the practical results achieved.

I am pleased to have this opportunity to work with you on the sidelines of this international event, within the SCO framework.







President of Iran Hassan Rouhani (retranslated):

Thank you very much, Mr President.

I am also glad to have this opportunity to meet with you on the sidelines of the summit.

I must say that the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is a very influential association that ensures security in this region, and Iran has been quite active in recent years in cooperating with this organisation.

I must express my gratitude for your position on admitting Iran as a full member of this organisation. As for our bilateral relations with the great Russia, our good neighbour, I must say that they are developing every day. Bilateral relations between our countries are unique and special, because they cover all levels and all issues.







As for the nuclear agreements, I must say that the Russian Federation has played a very important and constructive role in the implementation of these agreements. I also think that a more serious and more profound dialogue between our two countries is needed with regard to the United States’ illegal withdrawal from these agreements.

Our interaction in matters of security and stability in this region is growing more tangible with every day. I think you will agree with me that the Iranian-Russian cooperation in the fight against terrorism and various extremist groups has proved to be quite successful, and our cooperation plays a very strong and influential role in this region.

Several multilateral cooperation formats have already been established between Russia, Iran and other countries and we are deeply involved in this work.

Thank you.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57710






Meeting with President of Mongolia Khaltmaagiin Battulga



Vladimir Putin met with President of Mongolia Khaltmaagiin Battulga on the sidelines of the SCO summit.



June 9, 2018 - 14:00 - Qingdao








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President,

I would like to say that I am very happy to meet you. To start, I would like to note that everything is going well in our relations; trade is growing on both sides, and agricultural product deliveries are increasing.

Last year our energy company reduced the rates for Mongolian consumers by 30 percent. I do not know how energy is distributed inside the country but RAO UES of Russia lowered its rates.







Soon we will celebrate a joint event that is important for both of our countries. I am referring to the 80th anniversary of the victory at Khalkin Gol next year. We can prepare for this and celebrate it. I think this is important both for Mongolia and Russia.

As for vital issues of economic cooperation, I would like to note the substantial increase – 2.7 percent – in freight transit volume, container traffic on the Ulaanbaatar Railway.

In general, there is room for improvement, and I think we will talk about this today.



President of Mongolia Khaltmaagiin Battulga (retranslated):

Good afternoon, Mr President.

I am happy to be here, at our third meeting. Allow me to congratulate you on your victory in the Russian presidential election.

Mongolia is hosting a very important event, Mongolia-Russia Initiative 2018. I believe you know about this. This event is very important. We have organized an exhibition of the latest Russian agricultural equipment. Within the framework of these events, we also signed an agreement on the parameters of railway transit traffic. I believe that this agreement will benefit Mongolia’s development.

Another event held within the framework of Mongolia-Russia Initiative 2018 was the performance of the Igor Moiseyev Folk Dance Ensemble. The last time this ensemble visited Mongolia was back in 1976: it held two shows in our country’s capital, and both were sold out.







Within the framework of this event, I held a meeting with Irkutsk Region Governor Sergei Levchenko, who came up with a suggestion on promoting cooperation. As far as I understand, you have agreed to this.

With the Transport Minister, we have been discussing this project as well as various areas of cooperation, such as the construction of gas and oil pipelines, and roads and railways.

To implement these agreements, we need to reach complete understanding between both sides.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57711






Meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga



A trilateral meeting between Vladimir Putin, President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping and President of Mongolia Khaltmaagiin Battulga took place in Qingdao.



June 9, 2018 - 15:00 - Qingdao








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

President Xi, President Battulga, friends,

I am happy to meet with you in this trilateral format to discuss a range of practical issues in our cooperation.







The principles and tasks of our trilateral cooperation are fixed in the roadmap approved in 2015 at our meeting in Ufa. The relevant agencies and ministries in our countries are implementing the programme for developing the Russia−Mongolia−China economic corridor signed in Tashkent in 2016. We identified priority projects in such areas as industrial production, investment and high-technology.

The Russia-Mongolia-China Joint Trade and Economic Forum took place last June in Ulaanbaatar. Dozens of our companies attended.

Our states are building cooperation in developing a modern transport infrastructure. As I said at the bilateral meeting before, last year, the volume of container traffic on the China−Mongolia−Russia route to Europe increased 2.7 times, and by almost four times in the first quarter of this year.







We plan to upgrade the Ulaanbaatar Russian−Mongolian railway and adjacent sections. We are developing an upgrade project for this railway through 2030. The first stage spanning 2018–2020 will receive $260 million in investment.

In 2016, we signed a trilateral intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in motor transportation. Russia ratified the agreement last year. We hope that our friends will do their part soon.

We are starting to work together to remove excessive administrative barriers to provide an uninterrupted flow of transit trade. To this end we have to ensure full implementation of the 2016 agreement on mutual recognition of the results of customs control inspections.







As Mr Chairman just said, the introduction of the electronic information exchange system envisaged by the agreement has already substantially expedited the process of customs clearance at the border.

We have good opportunities for interaction in energy. Our Mongolian partners have proposed oil and gas pipelines from Russia to China across their territory. Generally, we are supportive, this is a good idea. But of course, as always, thorough feasibility studies need to be carried out.

Close interregional links play a special role in the cooperation between our states. For several years now border cooperation forums have been held involving Russia’s Trans-Baikal Territory, the Inner Mongolia autonomous region in China and the border areas of Mongolia.







We believe it is important to step up the efforts to promote three-way cooperation in tourism. In this context I would like to mention the proposal to form a cross-border “Tea Road” that would link these regions in Russia, China and Mongolia.

The development of cross-border environmental programmes aimed at preserving the unique flora and fauna and developing protected territories is also important.

Russia has proposed options for stepping up tripartite cooperation among non-governmental, scientific, cultural and educational organisations as well as interaction among parliaments and political parties.

In conclusion I would like to note that we support the idea of holding the next tripartite meeting in June of 2019 during the SCO summit in Kyrgyzstan.

Thank you.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57713






Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit



Vladimir Putin took part in the meeting of the Council of SCO Heads of State.



June 10, 2018 - 09:00 - Qingdao







After a restricted meeting, the leaders were joined by members of the delegations of the member states, leaders of the observer countries and representatives of a number of international organisations. This year, India and Pakistan attended the summit for the first time as new member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

Summit participants discussed various aspects of security and antiterrorist cooperation, the current economic situation, the development of humanitarian ties and coordination on regional issues, in particular Afghanistan and Syria.

The main political document signed by the participants of the meeting was the Qingdao Declaration, which reflects the consolidated approaches of the SCO member states regarding current issues of regional and global politics, laying out a common vision for the further development of multifaceted cooperation within the SCO.

They also adopted an Action Plan for 2018–2022 to implement the Treaty on Long-term Good-Neighbourliness, Friendship and Cooperation between the SCO Member States, and the SCO Member States Programme on Cooperation in Combating Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism for 2019–2021. The leaders also approved the Anti-Drug Strategy of the SCO member states until 2023 and 20 more joint documents.

After the official events, Vladimir Putin talked to the Russian media.

The day before, in Qingdao, the Russian President held a number of meetings with his counterparts in the SCO.








Russian President Vladimir Putin:

Mr President,

Colleagues,

I share my colleague’s opinion that the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is successfully progressing. With the accession of India and Pakistan – whose leaders are attending the meeting for the first time as full-fledged members – our organisation has become stronger, expanding its boundaries and capabilities.

I would like to stress that countering terrorism remains the priority for cooperation within the SCO. The programme adopted today on countering terrorism, separatism and extremism identifies cooperation benchmarks in that area for the coming three years.







The programme envisions holding joint drills and counter-terror operations, streamlining a closer exchange of experience and operational information. We expect the SCO Youth Council to actively participate in our work on preventing the recruitment of young people to participate in terrorist activities.

One of the SCO’s priorities is assisting in the political and diplomatic settlement of conflicts near the external borders of the organisation’s member states. The situation in Afghanistan calls for special attention, I agree with my colleagues who spoke about this earlier.







It is crucial that we fight the terrorist threat emanating from that country in unison, curb drug production and trafficking and render aid to Afghanistan in its national reconciliation, economic revival and stabilisation.

There has been good progress in the fight against terrorism in Syria. Thanks to the coordinated actions of Russia, the Syrian Government, Iran, Turkey, and other partners, including Kazakhstan, terrorist activity has become largely suppressed in that country. This opened the way to a political settlement.







Colleagues, I would like to note that the Government of Syria today controls an area that is home to about 90 percent of the country’s population. Damascus is following the agreements reached at the Syrian National Dialogue Congress in Sochi in January, and has sent proposals on constitutional committee members from the Government of the Syrian Republic to prepare the new fundamental law of the country. Therefore, the Syrian Government is fully abiding by its obligations and has shown its commitment to a political dialogue. Now it is up to the opposition.

Undoubtedly, our countries cannot help worrying about the situation around the Iranian nuclear program. The US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action could destabilise the situation. Russia stands for the consistent, rigorous implementation of the JCPOA. For our part, we will continue to honour all our commitments.







The problem on the Korean Peninsula is having a significant impact on the security situation in the SCO space. We positively assess the desire of Pyongyang, Seoul and Washington to reach a comprehensive resolution of the crisis through dialogue and negotiations in line with the roadmap proposed by Russia and China.

The SCO should continue to help normalise the situation in the region. Russia welcomes the forthcoming summit between the United States and North Korea and acknowledges China’s great contribution to the resolution of the Korean crisis.







Colleagues,

An important track of SCO activity is the development of mutually beneficial economic ties between our countries. Trade and investment are gaining momentum. We are simplifying the mutual availability of goods and services, improving customs regulations, eliminating unnecessary administrative barriers, and implementing joint projects in energy, transport and agriculture.

We are working on several integration initiatives between our countries. In May, a cooperation agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union and China was signed in Astana, Kazakhstan. It is important to take additional steps that would lead to increased coordination in the implementation of trade, investment and infrastructure projects through the EAEU and China’s Belt and Road programme. Russia and China are also preparing an agreement on the Eurasian Economic Partnership, which, of course, will be open to all the SCO countries.

I would like to use this opportunity to invite representatives of your countries to participate in the first meeting of the heads of regions of the SCO member states and in the Forum on Small Business of the SCO and BRICS regions, which are to be held in the Russian Federation.







Colleagues, at the end of the year, the term of office of the Secretary General of the SCO and the Director of the Executive Committee of the RATS expires. I would like to express my gratitude to our colleagues for their efficient work and wish success to their successors.

In conclusion, I would like to thank President Xi Jinping and all our Chinese friends for their very warm welcome and hospitality and congratulate China on its successful presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

Today, Kyrgyzstan is taking over. Our Kyrgyz friends can count on all possible assistance from the Russian side.

Thank you.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57716






Vladimir Putin answered questions from journalists



After the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, Vladimir Putin met with Russian journalists.



June 10, 2018 - 09:30 - Qingdao








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Good afternoon, welcome everyone.

I suggest we immediately get down to your questions without any statements from me because President of China, Mr Xi Jinping has just reported at the news conference on the progress and the results of our work today. So, please, if there are any specific questions for me, go ahead.



Question:

Good afternoon, Mr President. You have already said that the results on China have been summed up. You visit China every year, this year it was a state visit, of the highest status. Much has been said during your visits to the three Chinese cities, but have you highlighted anything for yourself as most important?



Vladimir Putin:

First of all, we reaffirmed that our relations with China are on a very high level; we agreed and signed a corresponding declaration with President Xi Jinping on further cooperation on the political track, and on dealing with various threats.

I must also note that this confirmation was of vital importance, because with all the current issues piling up, we still should not lose sight of the main avenues of our cooperation. One of them is our interaction in the international arena, particularly in international organisations such as the UN, the G20, the BRICS, the SCO and others.

That is, the very fact that we have reaffirmed the high level of our interaction and talked about the need for its development, in my opinion, is of great importance for present-day international relations and for Russia-China ties. That is the first thing.

The second thing concerns the political sphere.

As for economic issues, here I would single out the feasibility study for a broad Eurasian economic partnership that we signed. It will take some time before the treaty itself can be signed. This still requires more work, but this is the first serious step towards organising a major regional economic union.

As I said many times, it is certainly compatible with both the EAEU we are developing and the Chinese Belt and Road initiative in its economic dimension. Therefore, I believe it is a very important step in building our relations. All this undoubtedly fits in with the vigorous development of mutual trade – reaching 87 billion last year.

I am confident that if this continues, and this is obviously the case, at least we have shown significant growth in trade for the first quarter, we can probably reach 100 billion dollars by yearend.







Question:

Mr President, how do you assess the SCO's efficiency with its current expanded membership of eight states? What do you think of the potential expansion of the Organisation?



Vladimir Putin:

As for the SCO's efficiency in its expanded membership, it does not cause any doubts. I understand perfectly well what you mean when you talk about efficiency. You know, neighbouring countries often have issues that require additional attention from the leadership of these countries, problems that need to be addressed. This is quite natural and normal. Organisations like the SCO are created so that they would have platforms for resolving these complex problems.

Strictly speaking, the SCO was created, as I have said many times, to resolve border issues between China and the newly formed states from both sides of the border. All these issues have been successfully resolved, as you know, including the signing of the Border Agreement between Russia and China. I would like to emphasise that until then, they had negotiated it for 40 years. Then the SCO was established, and gradually, this platform helped us to resolve those border issues. The same with other countries in the region.

True, there is a problem, but organisations like the SCO are created precisely to solve these kinds of problems. Therefore, I welcome the fact that we agreed in the end to expand the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation by adding India and Pakistan. I hope that all the countries of the region will use this Organisation for in-depth work in a multilateral format, and to resolve bilateral issues.

As for expansion, we agreed that the current structure is optimal. We will have to look at how the Organisation will fare in this expanded format. You are right; it was only the first meeting with India and Pakistan as full members.

We need to see how it works, and then together with our colleagues, we will analyze this work and decide on further steps regarding the expansion of the Organisation.







Question:

Mr President, there is real drama unfolding around the G7 summit in Quebec and inside the G7 itself: disagreements over Russia’s possible return, over tariffs, and more controversy. In this regard, how do you assess the proposal made by Trump and the Italian Prime Minister on Russia’s return to the format, given that the purchasing power parity in the SCO is actually higher than in the G7?



Vladimir Putin:

As for Russia’s return to the G7, or G8 – we have never withdrawn from it. Our colleagues refused to come to Russia at some point for well-known reasons. We would be happy to see everyone in Moscow, they are welcome. That is first the first thing.

Second. As for the efficiency and volume of the economy, indeed, the purchasing power parity (this is IMF data) of the countries of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is already higher than in the G7 countries. Yes, it is, the PPP is higher.

True, the seven are still richer in per capita income, as they say, but the SCO economies are larger, and their population is much larger, too – half the world's population.

As for the various difficulties in the negotiation process within the G7, I need to take a look at this, I do not know the details. Of course, this is also of interest, these are the largest economies in the world.

We can see that there are internal problems there. Well, it happens. You know, when I look at our debates in the EAEU, we also have disputes and do not unanimously sign everything at the same time. I think this is common practice. It is necessary to deal with this calmly and without any irony.

I would draw attention to one more circumstance, which, in my opinion, is more significant than any emotional outbursts. What do I mean? As far as I know, the President of the United States said the US is considering the possibility of regulating the additional supply of automotive equipment in the US market.

This is a serious matter. This can really hurt the economic interests of so many countries, above all European, of course. Well, let us see how things will really unfold. This is of significant importance for the entire world economy.

On the other hand, it could be noted that there is one more group where practically all countries – both the SCO and the G7 members – meet to discuss common issues. I am referring to the G20. By the way, if we talk about the results of the SCO's work, I would say that alongside terrorism and security issues, which are in the focus of our attention, we reaffirmed today – and President Xi Jinping also said it at a meeting with the press in a statement – we reaffirmed our willingness to adhere to the generally accepted and formulated rules of international trade.

I think that in today's difficult situation, this is a very important statement, which, I hope, will help stabilise our joint activities in this area.







Question:

Allow me to return to the G7 issue. At the end of the summit, a communiqué was adopted, and a number of statements, including those urging Russia to discontinue its destabilising policies. Could you comment on these statements following the G7 summit?



Vladimir Putin:

No, I could not. I do not actually think it is part of my job to comment on everything that happens at the G7. As for those destabilising actions, just as with regard to some other events, everyone has shown solidarity with London over the Salisbury events, but yet again nothing specific was said.

What they said was that this event happened with a high degree of probability. Solidarity on this issue arises on some very unsteady ground. It seems to me that we must abandon all this creative chatter and turn specifically to issues of real cooperation.







Question:

Good afternoon, Mr President. You spoke yesterday with the President of Ukraine Pyotr Poroshenko. Could you tell us, please, if you got any actual interest on his part in the implementation of the Minsk Agreements?

And another question. Have you reached any agreement on the extradition of Russian journalist Kirill Vyshinsky? If yes, when? Or will there be an exchange?



Vladimir Putin:

Since that conversation was Ukraine’s initiative, I think this fact already shows their interest in an agreement. At least I really hope so.

We discussed the issues of extradition of people who are detained on both sides, and discussed the case of the Russian journalist, this at my initiative. It is too early now to say how this issue will be resolved, so I would refrain from commenting to avoid more problems.



Question:

The issue is not quite on the agenda of the SCO summit, neither about the G8. Alexander Ovechkin won the Stanley Cup. That was while we were in China. Did you watch the game? Did you support him? Have you called him? In America, there is a tradition – winning hockey players visit the President at the White House. Is it possible to arrange a meeting (we have three champions: Kuznetsov, Orlov, Ovechkin) with you? What would you talk to them about, how would it go?



Vladimir Putin:

Sasha and I are good friends. He even said he might return to Russia to play here. But his contractual obligations prevented him from doing so. In fact, maybe it is not bad for his personal career, because he has now finally won the Stanley Cup.

I congratulate him, as well as the whole team he plays with; this is a great achievement for any team in world hockey. As for the meeting, we meet regularly. We met even before he won the Stanley Cup.







Question:

But did you watch?



Vladimir Putin:

I did not, because I was busy working, as they say in such cases.



Question:

There have been reports that Austria is ready to host the US-Russia summit between you and Donald Trump. Can you confirm this? Perhaps you discussed this when you were in Austria? And when will you meet with Trump? Everyone is looking forward to it. Many problems have accumulated.



Vladimir Putin:

The President of the United States has repeatedly said that he considers this meeting expedient, and I agree that this is indeed the case. I can reiterate, in our last telephone conversation he expressed his concern about the threat of a new round of the arms race. I agree with him.

But to discuss this specifically, our respective foreign ministries need to work, and experts need to work very closely together. Personal meetings are certainly necessary as well. As soon as possible. As soon as the American side is ready, this meeting will be held immediately, depending on my work schedule.

About the location. We did not talk about this in detail, but many countries are willing to render such assistance to us, including several European countries, Austria among them. I have not heard anything else. But I think this is a technicality. What is important is that the meeting, if it takes place, is filled with specific content.







Question:

Good afternoon. You signed the Qingdao Declaration, which presents a common vision for further cooperation. Please tell us, in your opinion, how is this being done in the SCO in the first place, and what does this mean for global governance?



Vladimir Putin:

All this is connected with the original idea and proposal by President Xi Jinping regarding the Silk Road and its economic dimension. We, as you know, support this. We signed an agreement on the deepening of cooperation between China and the EAEU in Astana. This is one more step.

At the beginning of our meeting, I said that during my visit to China that has just taken place, we signed a feasibility study of the Eurasian economic partnership. All of that fits well into the wide-ranging and promising work in the huge Eurasian region.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisations countries, as I have already said – and as has been confirmed by the IMF – have a combined economy that has become larger than the G7 economies in Purchasing Power Parity. It means that we have tremendous prospects. If we also recall that the region’s economic growth rate is significantly higher than the world’s, then the prospects will look very good and very attractive for all nations.

We know about China’s record-high growth rates. I have just spoken to the Indian Prime Minister. India is currently showing a record growth of 7.7 percent. Thank God, Russia’s economy has resumed growth. It is a modest growth as of yet and is not comparable to China’s and India’s, but it is already in positive territory and will only go up, I have no doubt about that.

Therefore, for the global economy on the whole, with a regard of the fact that we once again reaffirmed our commitment today to free trade principles and fighting protectionism; all this is crucial for world trade and for the global economy.

As I answer your question, before we finish our meeting, I would like to express my gratitude to the Chinese people and the leaders of China, President Xi Jinping for an exceptionally warm reception, especially during my visit to the People’s Republic of China. Everything was on a high professional level, there is no other way to say this, everything was organised in a warm and friendly way, and was very effective.

Thank you very much. All the best.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57719
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 17th, 2018 #852
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Greetings on opening of Festival of Russian Culture in Japan 2018



Vladimir Putin sent greetings to participants and guests of the 13th Festival of Russian Culture in Japan.



June 12, 2018 - 09:00



The message reads, in part:

“This year, the festival is an integral part of the crossover years of Russia and Japan, which are being held for the first time in the history of our countries. As such, its programme is especially extensive and diverse.

Residents of dozens of Japanese cities will have an opportunity to attend theatre and ballet performances, premieres of feature films and documentaries, and concerts by symphony and pop orchestras, folk and circus groups. The visual arts will be the most widely represented: a series of exhibitions from the collections of the Tretyakov Gallery, the Pushkin Museum, the Hermitage and other leading Russian museums are planned.

Such large-scale cultural events will, without a doubt, give a significant boost to the development of Russian-Japanese people-to-people ties and help expand direct contacts between the citizens of our countries.

From the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank all those who took part in the preparation of the Festival. I wish new creative success to its participants and unforgettable impressions to guests.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57735






Meeting of the 68th FIFA Congress



June 13, 2018 - 11:20 - Moscow







Vladimir Putin attended the 68th Congress of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), which opened at Moscow’s Expocentre ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

President Infantino, members of the FIFA Council, heads of the world’s football associations, ladies and gentlemen,

The countdown for a glorious football event, which all fans are looking forward to, has begun. This moment brings to mind the beginning of a long, complicated and highly responsible path to the FIFA championships, which we have covered together as one big team.

The host country is not the only one responsible for preparing this large-scale sports festival. This goal would not have been attained without the contribution made by a huge number of specialists and enthusiasts of the global football family. This close group has a wonderful tradition, which is to gather before the tournament in the city where the opening match will be held.

It is a wonderful opportunity for Russia as the host country to express our gratitude to all of you and to your colleagues for the support you have provided in word as well as in deed over a period of the past seven years, during which Russia was preparing for this, one of the most popular and important sports events in the world.







We worked together to hold the main football event at the top level and to make it an unforgettable moment in the life of everyone who participates in it, whether as football players, devoted fans or as the television audience.

Special thanks go to Mr Gianni Infantino for his commitment to the ideals of sports and justice, as well as for his invariably positive attitude to our country. We know that Mr Infantino took over the helm at FIFA at a difficult time, but he has been steering the course firmly as a true captain.

The FIFA World Cup is very important for our country. Many generations of football fans dreamed to bring together the world’s best teams. Tomorrow, their dream will come true.







There are 12 first-class stadiums and modern infrastructure. But what is most important is that a huge number of devoted football fans from all over the world will come to Russia and share the joy of being involved in this exciting and vibrant sports event.

The 68th FIFA Congress has brought together in Moscow the delegates of all 211 national football associations and six continental confederations. The whole football world. I would like to emphasise the adherence of the International Football Federation to the principle “sports and politics do not mix.”

Russia has always adhered to this principle and strives to closely communicate with everyone who intends to develop and strengthen the constructive nature of sports and its unlimited humanistic potential.







Such large international forums as the World Cup are not only about a spectacle and thrill, but are also a good opportunity for millions of people to learn about other countries and their traditions as well as to make new friends.

They can learn that in other countries there are also kind, enthusiastic and open minded people who want to live in peace, communicate, visit each other and watch and play football together.

Our country is ready to host the 2018 FIFA World Cup and to provide everyone visiting Russia with a comfortable environment and positive emotions.







Our goal is to make all guests – from football stars to football fans – feel our hospitality and friendliness, learn about our original, multinational culture and the unique Russian nature, and make them want to come back again.

Let me wish the delegates every success in their work. We are expecting all of you tomorrow at the opening match of the 21st FIFA World Cup.

We are sincerely happy to see all of you. Welcome to Russia!

(In English.) Welcome to Russia! Thank you very much for your attention.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57738






Meeting with President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev



Vladimir Putin received President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in the Kremlin. The President of Azerbaijan arrived in Russia to attend the opening of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.



June 13, 2018 - 13:40 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, I am delighted to see you. Welcome.

I hope your stay in Moscow will be both productive and interesting: interesting because the game promises to be beautiful, and productive because very many of our colleagues from other countries have come here as well, so you will get an opportunity to talk with all of them and make new acquaintances too. You will also be able to discuss current issues with our CIS colleagues.







As for bilateral relations, we will discuss them in depth and at length during your visit to Russia on August 30. Until then, our colleagues will continue the preparations for your visit.

At this point, I can tell you that our relations are developing successfully. Our trade increased by 34.4 percent last year and by nearly 19 percent in the first quarter of this year. It is going at a really good pace, which we should keep up.

As for the political component, it is quite stable. Our parliaments maintain contact, just as our public organisations, and our humanitarian ties are developing as well.

I am very happy to see you. Welcome.







President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev:

Thank you, Mr President.

First of all, I would like to confer my best wishes to you on the occasion of yesterday’s public holiday – Russia Day.

I would also like to congratulate you on the successful completion of the preparations for the World Cup – this is the main sporting event in the world. I am sure that the tournament will be a success, and all guests will be happy.







As for our relations, I would also like to say how satisfied I am with their development. I would like to thank you for the invitation to visit Russia in late August. But today there is also a good opportunity to exchange views on current matters concerning our agenda, which is quite extensive.

I think that our relations have been given a great boost due to our regular and permanent contacts. And we can clearly see the results, our political interaction stands at a very high level and we are reliable friends as well as partners, strategic partners.







As you so rightly pointed out, our economic dynamics look very positive not only this year but over the past few years too. There are also plans to expand economic cooperation.

We can see certain results when it comes to the North-South project, the growth of the flow of cargo from Russia through Azerbaijan is increasing, and this is also a positive result of our activities.







I believe that our relations are exemplary in all fields, in culture, in particular. So I am glad that we have good dynamics, good results and are optimistic about the future, about making our ties even stronger.

Thank you once again for the invitation.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57740






Meeting with President of Rwanda Paul Kagame



Vladimir Putin met with President of the Republic of Rwanda Paul Kagame to discuss various aspects of bilateral cooperation. The Rwandan leader came to Russia for the opening of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.



June 13, 2018 - 14:45 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, colleagues, I am very pleased to welcome you to Moscow.







Our Foreign Minister has visited you recently. This year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries. I am very pleased that we have this opportunity to talk about the development of our relations.

I hope you will have an interesting and pleasant time in Moscow during the 2018 FIFA World Cup.







President of the Republic of Rwanda Paul Kagame:

Thank you, Mr President, for welcoming us and for the invitation to visit your country and also to be part of the FIFA World Cup. I want to congratulate you also on Russian Independence [Day] as well as the hosting of the World Cup.

Also I am happy that our relationship has so far lasted over 55 years. I am happy about that and look forward to strengthening our relationship further.







We had a very good visit by the Foreign Minister of your country, Mr Lavrov. He came with a delegation to Kigali. We are happy about that. We want to build on that momentum for strengthening our relationship which we want to continue to take further.

Mr President, I also want to thank you also for the support and the cooperation we are having in different fields that are very useful and productive to the development of our country.







These are the areas of education, training, defence cooperation as well, and other areas. And we are looking forward to having the private sector work in Rwanda, and look forward to hosting some of them from Russia to see the areas in which we could do investment and business.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57741






Meeting with President of Bolivia Evo Morales



Vladimir Putin had a meeting with President of the Plurinational State of Bolivia Evo Morales in the Kremlin.



June 13, 2018 - 15:50 - Kremlin, Moscow







The two presidents discussed opportunities concerning the expansion of bilateral cooperation, in particular, in the field of energy and military technology.

Following the talks, the leaders of the two countries adopted a joint statement on partnership in international affairs. The statement lays emphasis, in part, on coordinating actions in chemical disarmament and chemical non-proliferation, countering terrorism and illegal drug trafficking under the joint action plan on cooperation in the anti-drug struggle in 2018–2020, which was signed by Russia and Bolivia in Vienna in March 2018.

The parties also expressed their readiness to develop cooperation at the political and special services level in countering the illegal use of information and communication technology, transnational organised crime, illegal arms trade, corruption and other challenges and threats to public security.

The two leaders reaffirmed their mutual interest in developing bilateral military and military-technical cooperation and agreed to consolidate joint actions in the peaceful use of nuclear energy under the September 2017 contract on building a centre for nuclear research and technology in Bolivia and expanding cooperation on the training of personnel in this area.

As for the energy sector, the leaders expressed their intention to continue cooperating at the Gas Exporting Countries Forum and emphasised their mutual interest in developing their fuel and energy sectors and their mutual striving to exchange knowledge, experience and technology in the joint implementation of power sector projects.

In addition, the parties agreed to step up the political dialogue and cooperation between Russia and the member states and associated members of the Southern Common Market (Mercosur), as well as between Russia and the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America (ALBA).

The joint statement also includes the development of tourism, and further contact in culture, education, science, and protection of the environment and water resources, and cooperation on social protection and labour relations.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Good afternoon, Mr President, friends. I am very pleased to welcome you to Moscow.

Mr President, our states enjoy great relations, and your country is an important partner of ours in Latin America. Our foreign ministries cooperate closely, and we are working closely with Bolivia at the UN, where your country is currently a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.

We continue to provide training to your students, and are discussing the possibilities of expanding cooperation in the military and technical sphere. We export automotive equipment and medicines to your country. There is room to expand this list.







Gazprom operates at two fields producing 2.5 billion cubic metres of gas. We are now reviewing the possibility of doubling the output.

Rosatom is creating the Atomic Research Centre in your country. So, I am very pleased to note that our relations are expanding, and today we will include all areas of our interaction in a joint statement.

I am very pleased to see you.







President of the Plurinational State of Bolivia Evo Morales (retranslated):

Thank you very much, Mr President. I am very pleased to be able to greet you, too.

We cooperate with great success, and our countries are allies. The entire world also admires Russia as the host of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

We have a lot of commonalities in our respective ways of life and universal values. We share basic values such ​​as the heritage of humankind, respect for nature, and Mother Earth. Most importantly, we share your views on nuclear defence. We cooperate in many areas and have common views, I repeat, on universal values.

We are starting an interesting project with Gazprom and Rosatom. Gas production and energy security are critically important topics.







The independence of the South American countries is very important for us. Our cooperation with Russia in this area is very productive.

To reiterate, the subject of gas is very interesting, and we also share an interest in lithium. Due to lack of time and some technical issues, we only briefly touched on this topic.

With regard to the Eurasian Economic Union, we would be very interested in cooperating with it, and I am open to discussing these issues.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57743






Meeting with Prime Minister of Lebanon Saad Hariri



Vladimir Putin met with President of the Council of Ministers of the Lebanese Republic Saad Hariri in the Kremlin. The two leaders discussed, in particular, ways to step up bilateral economic cooperation.



June 13, 2018 - 16:35 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Prime Minister, I am very happy to see you.

First, I would like to congratulate you on your re-election as Prime Minister. I know that you are busy forming your government now.

To begin, I would like to note right off that we have an upward trend in mutual trade: in 2017, trade increased by over 17 percent.







We need to maintain this pace and not allow it to backslide – there were some alarming signs in the first quarter – we need to prevent a reversal of the trend that has developed over the past year.

We need to concentrate on the intergovernmental commission. The commission has been successful so far. A large number of companies on both sides are interested in cooperation.

Various industries have shown achievements. I hope today we will have time to talk about all these issues, as well as the situation in your country and in the region as a whole.

Glad to see you.







Prime Minister of Lebanon Saad Hariri (retranslated):

Mr President, thank you very much. I am always happy to come to Moscow – it is an opportunity for us to exchange views on many issues.

We certainly have ongoing projects we need to work on in the future. But we have also noted progress, and with the new Government, Lebanon intends to continue these efforts.

I hope that the World Cup in Russia will be a success. I also hope that we will have an opportunity to discuss the situation in the region in detail.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57772






Meeting with Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan



Vladimir Putin met with Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan who is in Russia for the opening of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.



June 13, 2018 - 18:00 - The Kremlin, Moscow







Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Oreshkin represented Russia at the meeting.




President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Prime Minister,

We have seen each other not so long ago – in was in Sochi on the 14th [of May], I believe. However, given the strategic nature of our relations and the wide variety of areas of cooperation, I think our meetings are always helpful.

Thank you for coming. Now, we can talk about bilateral affairs as part of this international sporting event.







The only thing I would like to say at the outset is that Russia is Armenia’s top trading partner. We are the number one partner in trade and economic relations. Last year, our trade grew by more than 30 percent, and this year is also showing strong growth.

Incidentally, this is largely due to an increased supply of agricultural produce to the Russian market. Of course, we both think Armenia's accession to the EAEU had a positive effect, which is obvious. I hope we will continue to move in this direction.

I am very glad to see you and discuss our relations.

Welcome!







Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan:

Mr President,

First, let me congratulate you on the recent national holiday, Russia Day. Yesterday, I was at the Russian Embassy in Yerevan and extended my congratulations on this occasion.

Of course, I congratulate you on the World Cup, because this is an important and big event of a global scale, and the entire world is focused on Moscow. Thank you for the invitation, of course.

We met for the first time a month ago, and the fact that we are meeting again 30 days later, I think, is indicative of the special relations between Armenia and Russia. I think that this also shows that the statements made a month ago were not just fully justified, but are now being acted on.

Of course, Armenia and Russia enjoy a special relationship. I am confident that relations will continue to be special, and will become even more special. Of course, it is very important for us, Armenia and the government of Armenia, which represents the people of Armenia, to enjoy such a reception in Russia, both in Sochi and Moscow.







Of course, this underscores the atmosphere which we managed to create over these months. And I think that everyone – both in Armenia and Russia – is happy with this progress. Also, everyone is hopeful that progress in relations will be facilitated by respect between the two peoples, the two states and by respect for the interests and the sovereignty of our respective countries. It is very important.

It is important for me that we have the opportunity – and I am confident that in the future we will also have this opportunity – to meet frequently and discuss the entire agenda of our relations. We are all aware that the agenda of our relations is fairly extensive, and there are lots of economic, political and regional issues.

Of course, we hope for a positive and constructive dialogue. We had the chance to see for ourselves that our dialogue is indeed like that. I am very happy about that and I think that both the Armenian people and the Russian people are happy about this as well.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57774






Meeting with the newly elected President of Paraguay Mario Abdo Benitez



Vladimir Putin met with the elected President of the Republic of Paraguay Mario Abdo Benitez, who arrived in Moscow to take part in the 2018 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony.



June 14, 2018 - 13:00 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President,

I will address you this way, despite the fact that you are taking office only in August. I would like to congratulate you on winning the election. I want to thank you for coming to Russia.

Diplomatic relations between our countries were established in 1909. It is well known that our compatriots made a significant, tangible contribution to the development of your country.

Thank you for the fact that Paraguay received Patriarch Kirill. This emphasises our spiritual ties.

I am very glad to see you, to meet with you and talk about various options for advancing our bilateral relations. I hope that the time spent in Russia will also create the right emotions and a good mood, and will become the driving force behind the development of our ties.







President-elect of the Republic of Paraguay Mario Abdo Benitez (retranslated):

First of all, on behalf of the people of Paraguay, I would like to thank you for the message that was sent on your behalf in connection with the election in Paraguay in April this year.

Today is a truly remarkable event for our people because this is the first time that the President of Paraguay offers his hand to the President of Russia.

As you so rightly pointed out, Mr President, we are united by a common past. During the hard times for our people, Russian officers gave us a helping hand and assisted us when we were fighting for freedom. Our people are extremely thankful to Russia and Russian officers for their heroism as well as dedication.

There was one special man, an officer, who will forever be in our hearts. I am talking about officer Vasily Serebryakov who took part in the decisive battle of the Chaco War, the battle which helped us triumph over Bolivia. On that day, Serebryakov said, “It is a good day to die.” He was killed on that very same day. We will always remember him.

To commemorate those events, we would like to present you with a few things. These are the medals of the officers who fought in the Chaco War. And this statue weights 7 kilogrammes. It is made out of the bullets used in the war.

It is a great honour for me to be the president-elect of Paraguay, and to be visiting Russia to meet with you. As a senator, I visited Russia and met with Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko. It was an honour to speak before the senators and it was the first visit on such a level.

Undoubtedly, information support of the Russian intelligence service is maintained well, so we can make good contacts at this level.







Vladimir Putin:

Thank you very much and thank you as well for the gesture, for the orders of Russian officers. All of them, of course, will be kept in a proper place. We will definitely talk about it with members of the public. It is a momentous event that shows just how very close we are. The memory of such people must be preserved. In any case, we are doing this, we are collecting things and will use them so that the future generations know about our heroic compatriots.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57780






Meeting with President of Panama Juan Carlos Varela



Vladimir Putin met with President of Panama Juan Carlos Varela at the Kremlin. The Panamanian leader has come to Moscow to attend the opening of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.



June 14, 2018 - 13:40 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, colleagues and friends,

I am delighted to see you in the Kremlin. Yesterday we had the pleasure of attending a concert together. I hope you enjoyed it.

It is the first time that your national team is taking part in the World Cup, and very many Panamanian fans have come to Russia. We wish success to your national team.

Of course, I am also glad to have this opportunity to discuss bilateral relations with you. Our trade is rather modest so far, but this is something we can work on. I know that you are accompanied by a large delegation of your business leaders. As far as I know, they plan to meet with their Russian colleagues at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry today.







President of Panama Juan Carlos Varela (retranslated):

Mr President, to begin with, I would like to congratulate you on hosting the World Cup. The organisation is just perfect, both technically and in terms of security.

Indeed, yesterday we enjoyed a concert in Red Square with you.

This is a truly historic meeting, because it is the first time that the presidents of Panama and Russia have met in the Kremlin. I would like to express my appreciation of the development of our relations and our cooperation and to thank you for training Panamanian professionals in Russia.

I hope this meeting will open up a further way to develop and strengthen our relations and give a fresh boost to our countries’ bilateral relations.

Some time ago, Panama completed a project to extend the Panama Canal. This has made our country a real transport hub when it comes to both sea and air logistics. We believe that direct flights between our capitals will allow for the promotion of our bilateral relations, including in the field of trade and the economy.







Although the population is small – there are four million people living in Panama – our economy is steadily growing and we have become an important actor in Latin America. Our role in the region is becoming ever more important.

Panama is a neutral country. We believe that we are an ideal place to develop and continue the political dialogue to reach a consensus on various matters on the agenda.

Our government is set to develop ties with Russia, India and China in order to expand our trade and economic cooperation. I hope that you, Mr President, will pay a visit to Panama to see not only the Panama Canal but the whole country with your very own eyes as well as to meet our people.

We are united by our vision on many aspects of international affairs, including some common activities with President of China Xi Jinping. We hope that together we will be able to act to settle various conflicts we can see now.

Panama has always considered dialogue the main tool to resolve conflicts.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57781






Meeting with President of Kyrgyzstan Sooronbay Jeenbekov



Vladimir Putin had a meeting with President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sooronbay Jeenbekov.



June 14, 2018 - 14:30 - The Kremlin, Moscow







Mr Jeenbekov will take part in the 2018 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony.




President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, friends,







I am delighted that we are meeting once again. We met recently, in China, and we are to meet again within the framework of the CIS Summit. We always have something to discuss, this time included, considering the character of our relations as well as the growing trade. Last year, it grew 31 percent and the positive trend is still showing. We must do everything to keep it up in the future.

I am so happy to see you. Welcome.







President of Kyrgyzstan Sooronbay Jeenbekov:

Thank you.

Mr President, I am very pleased to see you too and to be able to discuss several topical matters concerning bilateral cooperation.







First of all, I would like to thank you for inviting me to take part in the World Cup opening ceremony in Moscow. I sincerely wish Russia’s football team every success and lots of victories.







I would like to confer my belated very best wishes to you and Russia’s many peoples on your recent public holiday, Russia Day.







And thank you once again for the invitation to come here.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57783






Meeting with Chairman of the DPRK Supreme People's Assembly Presidium Kim Yong-nam



Vladimir Putin met with Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly of North Korea Kim Yong-nam in the Kremlin.



June 14, 2018 - 15:30 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Chairman, friends, I am glad to see you.

Thank you for accepting our invitation and coming to Russia today. Our countries have old and very good relations. This year we mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties.

As you know, we have always endeavoured to resolve all the problems around the Korean Peninsula. As such, I would like to note that, of course, we welcome the contacts between the leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and the President of the Republic of Korea.

We also welcome and praise the outcome of the meeting between the leader of North Korea, comrade Kim Jong-un, and US President Donald Trump that took place recently, on June 12. We proceed from the premise that this is, of course, just the first step towards a full settlement, but the step was taken thanks to both leaders’ good will. Of course, this creates conditions for further progress and reduces the overall level of tensions around the Korean Peninsula.

The entire world was apprehensive, because this may have had a very dire outcome, even a large military conflict. Thanks to this meeting, a possible negative scenario has been postponed. On the contrary, now there are prospects of resolving the problems by peaceful political and diplomatic means.

Russia has always called for this and taken the necessary steps. We are ready to continue this work and make all necessary efforts to establish ties, including in economic cooperation, together with you.

I would like to re-extend, and ask you to convey to the leader of North Korea Kim Jong-un, our invitation to visit Russia; for example, as part of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok this September. Or it can be done separately; we can schedule this meeting regardless of international events between our foreign ministries.

We are delighted to see you. Welcome!







Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Yong-nam (retranslated):

Thank you very much.

Mr President, I listened to your remarks with great attention. Above all, I have the honour to convey to you, with special respect, sincere regards from Chairman of the State Council of the DPRK Comrade Kim Jong-un. It is also my honour to use this opportunity to convey to you a message from the Chairman of the DPRK State Council. (Presents the document.)



Vladimir Putin:

Thank you.







Kim Yong-nam:

I have warm memories from my visits to Russia, my valuable meetings with you, Mr President, when I participated in the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games in Sochi and celebrations of the 70th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. I am also very pleased to meet with you today, Mr President.

Please accept once again our sincere congratulations on your recent re-election to the post of President of the Russian Federation with substantial, absolute support of the people of Russia.

Mr President, also accept our sincere congratulations on the upcoming major event which is the opening of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. We sincerely hope that this championship will be an important opportunity to celebrate the great Russian nation across the world, and also to maintain economic growth and promote physical fitness and sport in your country.

As you are aware, Mr President, recently, in April, during the 3rd plenary session of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea of ​​the 7th convocation, Chairman of the Workers’ Party of Korea Comrade Kim Jong-un, put forward a new strategy according to which our country will concentrate all its resources and efforts on economic construction.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57784






Meeting with Crown Prince and Defence Minister of Saudi Arabia Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud



Vladimir Putin met with Crown Prince and Defence Minister of Saudi Arabia Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud.



June 14, 2018 - 16:15 - The Kremlin, Moscow







The Saudi Crown Prince will attend the opening ceremony of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia.




President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Your Highness, colleagues and friends,

I am honoured to welcome you at the Kremlin.

First of all, I would like to wish you a happy Eid al-Fitr, the holiday which marks the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Your Highness, we fondly recall the visit of King Salman of Saudi Arabia. Please, convey our best regards to His Majesty. His visit gave a powerful boost to bilateral relations, which are developing rapidly in politics and the economy. However, there is still much to be done here, though it is already clear that our cooperation is very effective and is benefitting both Saudi Arabia and the Russian Federation.

We are glad to see you in Moscow, including on the occasion of the World Cup opening and also because our teams are playing today.

You know about our warm feelings for you, but you will definitely understand my reluctance to wish success to your team. (Laughter.) The strongest team will win. We stand for fair, open and beautiful sport. Anyway, we will both enjoy the masterful play of our athletes.

I am delighted to see you.







Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud (retranslated):

Your Excellency,

I would like to thank you for your hospitality. I would also like to convey the warmest of greetings of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. And I would like to say that the historic visit was successful and fruitful for both sides.

Over the past several years, we have come far in terms of developing bilateral relations. In many fields, too, as you have mentioned – political, economic, industrial, oil-related. I believe that this fruitful cooperation saved us from many dangers that were lying in wait for us.

I think that the whole world benefitted from this cooperation, as the volatility in oil prices, as well as other volatility occurring in this sphere, and the stabilisation achieved in this sphere helped to stabilise the entire global economy. The benefit to our two countries has been a benefit to all countries that use our energy. We have been witnessing this beneficial effect over the past several years. Undoubtedly, we would like to continue this cooperation and go even further.

Today, the historic agreement on OPEC+ is currently in place. Both OPEC and non-OPEC countries are working together. We hope that the first OPEC+ summit will be held in our country, in Riyadh, in your honour.

As for today’s match between our countries’ national football teams – may the best team win. No matter how this match ends, we will be happy, as our joint work in various spheres continues to be successful. Even if we lose, we will bring back to our country the political, economic and negotiating capital we have generated. If we win, this victory will cap the list of our other achievements.

Thank you, Your Excellency.







Vladimir Putin:

I completely agree with you. And we will keep working together in this important sphere.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57786






Greetings on opening of 7th Russia-Kyrgyzstan Interregional Conference



Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to participants of the 7th Russia-Kyrgyzstan Interregional Conference.



June 15, 2018 - 09:00



The message reads, in part:

“Your traditional meetings, which unite representatives of central and regional authorities, businesses, the expert community and the media, have fully proven their value. They serve as an important platform for discussing topical issues of bilateral relations and make a significant contribution to developing interregional ties, which are an important element of the Russia-Kyrgyzstan strategic partnership.

Our countries participate actively in integration processes in the framework of the Eurasian Economic Union and implement joint projects in transport, infrastructure, logistics and other areas where high technology plays an important role. In this sense, I believe the theme of this forum is highly relevant.

I am confident that informative and constructive discussions will be held during the conference and that they will launch new ambitious ideas and initiatives and will help promote constructive cooperation between our two countries.”

The 7th Russia-Kyrgyzstan Interregional Conference is held in Chelyabinsk on June 15. Its theme is The Role of Digital Transformation in Economic Integration of the Russian Federation and the Kyrgyz Republic.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57793






Telephone conversation with President of China Xi Jinping



Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of China Xi Jinping.



June 15, 2018 - 13:30



Vladimir Putin thanked Xi Jinping for his hospitality during the recent state visit to China and the summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. Both leaders are satisfied with the results of these events.

Xi Jinping congratulated Vladimir Putin on the successful opening of the FIFA World Cup and wished the best of luck to Russia’s team.

The leaders touched on several topical issues on the international agenda, including settlement on the Korean Peninsula.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57792






Telephone conversation with Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu



Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister of the State of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu.



June 15, 2018 - 14:45



The two leaders discussed the developments in Syria in the context of joint efforts to provide security near the Syrian-Israeli border. Mr Putin and Mr Netanyahu expressed readiness to boost the coordination of their actions with regard to Syria, including in countering international terrorism.

They also agreed on contacts at various levels.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57794






Greetings on opening of fourth International Professional Forum Book. Culture. Education. Innovations



Vladimir Putin sent greetings to participants and guests of the fourth Book. Culture. Education. Innovations International Professional Forum held on June 16–24 in Sudak, Republic of Crimea.



June 16, 2018 - 12:00



The message reads, in part:

“Your forum, which grew out of a prominent, authoritative international library conference known as Crimea, is rightfully considered an important and notable event for representatives of scientific and educational organisations, public associations in various fields, and specialists in the humanities.

Every year, current professional issues are discussed by serious experts, and future plans are made, which are primarily connected with the active introduction of new technologies and innovative practices in museums, theaters, and other institutions. This approach fully meets the needs of the times, and allows you to significantly expand the possibilities of your work.

I am confident that the forum will serve the productive exchange of positive experience, that it will take place in an atmosphere of creativity and its recommendations will certainly be in demand.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57800
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 17th, 2018 #853
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Greetings on 100th anniversary of Kemerovo



Vladimir Putin congratulated Kemerovo residents on the 100th anniversary of the city’s establishment.



June 11, 2018 - 09:00



The message reads, in part:

“This anniversary is a major, important event in the life of the city, Kuzbass and Russia in general.

The history of Kemerovo was written by courageous, talented people, who developed rich natural deposits, and set up facilities for coal production, industry, transport, and social infrastructure.

Thanks to their hard, creative work, Kemerovo grew into a large industrial, cultural, educational and scientific centre, becoming the capital of one of the economically developed regions of Western Siberia. A special page in the city’s chronicle deals, of course, with its contribution to the Great Victory.

It is gratifying that Kemerovo residents show utmost respect for the wonderful traditions of their fathers and grandfathers, aspire to efficiently address the challenges the city faces and are rightfully famous for their greatheartedness, generosity and hospitality.

I am sure that sincere love for your native land, persistence, and your true Siberian character will continue to help you implement your plans.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57726






Greetings on opening of military patriotic camp Soldiers of the Fatherland. Borodino 2018



Vladimir Putin has sent his greetings to participants, organisers and guests of the military patriotic camp Soldiers of the Fatherland. Borodino 2018, which unites members of patriotic clubs, cadets and children of servicemen from many regions of Russia.



June 11, 2018 - 11:00



The message reads, in part:

“Your camp is located on the legendary Borodino Field, steeped in military glory. And this is why its eventful programme includes a study of Russia’s military history, as well as historical reenactments of the battles of 1812 and 1941, visits to museums and exhibitions, and meetings with famous people. And you will have time for sports and recreation, of course.

I am convinced that such large-scale patriotic initiatives, and your project is definitely in this category, are very much needed today. They contribute to the personal development of children, and provide young men and women with an upbringing based on high values of civic consciousness, love for the Fatherland, and respect for its heroes.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57725






Greetings to residents of Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area – Yugra



Vladimir Putin sent greetings to residents of the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area – Yugra on the 900th anniversary of the first mention of Yugra in Russian chronicles.



June 12, 2018 - 10:00



The message reads, in part:

“From those distant times through the present day, the destiny of Yugra has been closely tied to Russia, the emergence of the Russian state, and the development of industry and energy in the country. Many generations of your compatriots – true pioneering heroes – explored new territories, discovered promising oil and gas deposits, erected cities and settlements, schools and kindergartens, and medical institutions. They created the region’s production, transport, and social infrastructure.

Today the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area – Yugra makes a substantial contribution to strengthening the national economy, industry, and fuel and energy complex. The people there know how to work hard and enjoy it. They are famous for their warmth and hospitality, and they respect the unique historical, cultural, and spiritual heritage of their native land.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57736






Presentation of Russian Federation National Awards



On Russia Day in the Kremlin, the President presented the 2017 National Awards for outstanding achievements in science and technology, literature and the arts, and humanitarian activity.



June 12, 2018 - 13:00 - The Kremlin, Moscow







The 2017 National Award in science and technology has been awarded to Cristallography and Photonics researchers Mikhail Alfimov, Sergei Gromov and Alexander Chibisov. Among the award winners are also Chief endocrinologist of the Russian Healthcare Ministry Academician Ivan Dedov, and Yevgeny Rogaeyev, DrSc. (Biology).

The 2017 National Award in literature and the arts has been awarded to Director General of the Kaliningrad Museum of the World Ocean Svetlana Sivkova, Artistic Director of the St Petersburg State Philharmonia Yury Temirkanov and Artistic Director of the St Petersburg Academic Ballet Theatre Boris Eifman.

The 2017 National Award for outstanding achievements in humanitarian activity has been awarded to President of the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts Irina Antonova.








Russian President Vladimir Putin:

Laureates, friends,

I am pleased to greet you and all Russians on Russia Day.

This day is a symbol of a free and future-oriented Russia, and marks the greatness of its centuries-long history, and the victories and accomplishments of many generations of our predecessors.







Today it is our contemporaries who set the seal on the glory and power of our country with their labour and achievements. The presentation of the Russian Federation National Awards is one of the more important events of Russia Day, and its tradition. It is a celebration of outstanding Russian citizens and recognition of their services to the Motherland.







I sincerely thank you, esteemed laureates, for your commitment to spiritual and humanitarian values and for your true service to Russian culture, science and education in and outside of schools and universities.







Your life and dedication to your work is an example of special and inspiring strength. You are doubtlessly endowed with the inner freedom that opens up space for pursuing scientific quests, for bold creativity and the fulfilment of your talents.







This hall has heard, although a general, abridged version, of our laureates’ accomplishments. Yet I will not deny myself the pleasure of repeating certain parts of it.







Irina Antonova is among a constellation of brilliant Russian cultural figures. She has entered world art history as a consistent champion of the dialogue of cultures, and an educator with encyclopaedic knowledge and impeccable artistic taste.







The implementation of Ms Antonova’s innovative ideas and her selfless labour has set the highest standards of museum work, and put the Pushkin Museum on the global map. The era of Irina Antonova is and will forever remain part of Russian culture. Her humanitarian accomplishments are truly exceptional.

Ms Antonova, I am sincerely pleased to congratulate you on this prestigious award.







Maestro Yuri Temirkanov has the true innate talent of familiarising people with musical masterpieces and initiating them to higher ideals and values. He has reached the height of his profession and glory and made great contributions to the development of world culture.







A champion of academic art, Mr Temirkanov has filled classical works with his own brilliant vision of the composers’ original ideas. His many fans the world over are mesmerised by his unparalleled style.







Since stepping on the stage of the St Petersburg Philharmonia as the artistic director of its symphony orchestra, Mr Temirkanov has added new colour to its musical palette. While he continues to conduct the world’s most eminent orchestras, Mr Temirkanov considers his work in his hometown to be most important, saying that St Petersburg “is in command of his heart”. (Turning to Yuri Temirkanov) Am I correct?







Boris Eifman is also rightfully called a living legend. Few people recognise their true calling from an early age and pursue it with the determination that Mr Eifman charted his own independent course as a choreographer.







Boris Eifman has always been about bravery, freedom and the rejection of established rules and canon. His productions have transformed the way we think about ballet, expanding what this art form is capable of, and captivating audiences with a new style of dance which is complex, striking and emotional.







The language of Boris Eifman’s choreography, his school have become classic and entered textbooks not just for their formal expression of artistic ideas but also for their psychological and philosophical insights into human nature, behaviour and spirituality.

Svetlana Sivkova has dedicated her life to preserving and popularising Russia’s marine legacy. Her passion for her work not only has made it possible to bring many plans and dreams into being; it is also infectious and brings together energetic, committed people.







Kaliningrad’s Museum of the World Ocean began with the preservation of the legendary research vessel Vityaz. Back then, in 1990, Ms Sivkova and her like-minded team demonstrated their firmness and decisiveness, and later on they never shirked from challenges and only moved forward, creating Russia’s only comprehensive marine museum in the process. Its visitors can get a full view of the world ocean, its nature and history of exploration, including by Russian researchers. Thank to Ms Sivkova’s efforts, a system was created to support the study and preservation of Russia’s marine legacy.

Friends,

The advances of Russian research teams largely determined the course of modern science.







The achievements of scientists at the RAS Crystallography and Photonics Federal Research Centre have been recognised with a National Award.

Mikhail Alfimov, Sergei Gromov and Alexander Chibisov pioneered solutions that make it possible to construct and create materials on the molecular level that can change properties when exposed to light.

This fundamental discovery will surely have numerous applications. It will help store and transmit data more efficiently in medicine to monitor patient health and in ecology to provide precise environmental data, and much more in other crucial areas.







In recent years, our researchers have made a real breakthrough in what is called the life sciences, which have as their aim preventing and curing diseases, prolonging life and improving its quality.

Ivan Dedov, a research organiser who oversees large-scale research programmes in endocrinology, has made a colossal contribution to the advancement of science in Russia. His methods of personalised diagnostics and treatment have prolonged by decades the lives of patients still in their prime. As a result, Russia has earned a place among world leaders in the fight against diabetes.







Biologist Yevgeny Rogayev has made a number of key discoveries in his research of hereditary diseases. He shed light on the genetic roots of Alzheimer's, haemophilia, and congenital cataracts. Such exceptional scientific accomplishments bring humanity closer to eradicating what once were incurable illnesses.

Friends,

For each one of you, the journey to success has meant daily hard work, total commitment and responsibility. I know that there is great happiness in the lives you lead – committing yourself, your efforts, knowledge and talents to your calling, scaling the heights of your profession as you do the work that you love and are completely committed to, delighting, amazing and inspiring others with the monumental results of your labour, and doing a great service to your native country and its people.







I want to once again express my sincere congratulations to you all. I thank you for what you have done for your country, for our Fatherland. I wish you new achievements.

Thank you very much for your attention.


<…>


Vladimir Putin:

Friends,

Talking about his research, one of our laureates today, Mr Dedov, I believe, said that modern methods allow us to look into the future, to make predictions.







Today is a holiday, Russia Day, and each of us obviously cares about the future of our nation, the future of our Motherland, the future of Russia. This future is being shaped today by talented, remarkable, hard-working people who number in the hundreds of thousands, in the millions all over Russia. We can see, we know that with such “architects” as our laureates here with us today, our future is guaranteed. All will be well.

(Russia’s National Anthem plays.)




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57731






Russia Day reception



Following the National Awards ceremony, a reception was held on the Kremlin’s Ivanovskaya Square for the national holiday, Russia Day.



June 12, 2018 - 14:00 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Friends, colleagues, ladies and gentlemen,

Greetings on Russia Day!

Today we honour our country and we are united in our brightest and warmest feelings for Russia, in our pride in it and in the deeds of our predecessors, and our concern for the present and the future of the Fatherland.

For us, Russia, the Homeland, is much more than the place where we were born and live. In our hearts, we feel an indissoluble bond to our history, spiritual values and moral principles. And this invisible but durable thread binds all generations together.







Our country has been through numerous critical times and severe trials. But our multinational people met all challenges with dignity and honour. The foundation, the core of this unity and tenacity has always been and always will be devotion to the Fatherland.

Today proactive love for Russia, responsibility for it, the readiness of each person to join in addressing national challenges and, no less importantly, the everyday challenges its people face – this is what guarantees the inviolable sovereignty of our state, a reliable foundation for the effective protection of our national interests.







We are well aware how many clever, talented, and brave people Russia is blessed with. They are capable of stunning success, achieving the seemingly impossible, making discoveries in science and technology, and creating masterpieces of culture admired the entire world over. The work of National Award winners is clear confirmation of this. I would like to once again congratulate you on the high esteem your services to the country and the Russian people are held in.







Friends, the path our country has travelled shows us that we can create, dream, constantly reach new heights, be strong and achieve the goals we set together.

No matter the kind of work each of us does, we always work for the prosperity of the Fatherland, for its rapid, breakthrough development for the sake of its people, for the high quality and level of their lives.







Let me propose a toast to our wonderful Homeland, to the prosperity of all the citizens of our country.

Happy holiday! Happy Russia Day!




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57732






Executive orders on the Presidential Executive Office major staff and key officials



Vladimir Putin signed executive orders on major staff and key officials of the Presidential Executive Office.



June 13, 2018 - 16:00




Anton Vaino has been appointed Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office.




Alexei Gromov has been appointed First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office.




Sergei Kiriyenko has been appointed First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office.




Magomedsalam Magomedov has been appointed Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office.




Vladimir Ostrovenko has been appointed Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office.




Dmitry Peskov has been appointed Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office and Presidential Press Secretary.




Andrei Belousov has been appointed Aide to the President.




Larisa Brychyova has been appointed Aide to the President – Head of the Presidential State-Legal Directorate.




Dmitry Kalimulin has been appointed Aide to the President – Head of the Presidential Speechwriting Office.




Igor Levitin has been appointed Aide to the President.




Anatoly Seryshev has been appointed Aide to the President.




Vladislav Surkov has been appointed Aide to the President.




Yury Ushakov has been appointed Aide to the President.




Andrei Fursenko has been appointed Aide to the President.




Dmitry Shalkov has been appointed Aide to the President and Head of the Presidential Control Directorate.




Vladislav Kitayev has been appointed Chief of the Presidential Protocol.




Sergei Glazyev has been appointed Adviser to the President.




Anton Kobyakov has been appointed Adviser to the President.




Alexandra Levitskaya has been appointed Adviser to the President.




Vladimir Tolstoy has been appointed Adviser to the President.




Mikhail Fedotov has been appointed Adviser to the President.




Veniamin Yakovlev has been appointed Adviser to the President.




Arthur Muravyov has been appointed Presidential Plenipotentiary in the Federation Council.




Garry Minkh has been appointed Presidential Envoy to the State Duma.




Mikhail Krotov has been appointed Presidential Envoy to the Constitutional Court.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57775






Executive Order on the Presidential Executive Office optimisation



Vladimir Putin signed Executive Order On the Optimisation of the Presidential Executive Office.



June 14, 2018 - 11:50



According to the Executive Order, in order to optimise the structure of the Presidential Executive Office of the Russian Federation and implement the Presidential Address to the Federal Assembly of March 1, 2018, the Presidential Domestic Policy Directorate, the Presidential Experts’ Directorate, the Presidential Directorate for Supporting Activities of the State Council of the Russian Federation, the Presidential Directorate for Social Projects will be reorganised, and the Presidential Directorate for Application of Information Technology and the Development of E-Democracy will be transformed into the Presidential Directorate for Development of Information and Communication Technology and Communication Infrastructure. The Executive Order determines the functions of each directorate.

The Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office has been instructed accordingly.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57779






Meeting with permanent members of Security Council



Vladimir Putin held a meeting with the permanent members of the Security Council.



June 15, 2018 - 17:00 - The Kremlin, Moscow







The head of state informed meeting participants about the June 9–10 summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in China and his contacts with foreign leaders on the sidelines of this forum.










Continuation of the OPEC+ deal in the context of the President’s recent meeting with Crown Prince and Defence Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud was addressed as a separate issue.













In addition, the participants discussed pressing domestic socio-economic issues.










The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Anton Vaino, Secretary of the Security Council Nikolai Patrushev, Minister of the Interior 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.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57796






Meeting with Head of Chechnya Ramzan Kadyrov



Vladimir Putin had a working meeting with Head of the Chechen Republic Ramzan Kadyrov.



June 15, 2018 - 19:50 - Novo-Ogaryovo, Moscow Region







Current issues relating to the development of Chechnya, including investor appeal, were discussed at the meeting.

Vladimir Putin also extended his greetings to Ramzan Kadyrov and all Muslims in Russia on the occasion of the holiday Eid al-Fitr.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Kadyrov, let us talk about the situation in the Republic. What has been done in the previous period and what are the plans for the near future?



Head of the Chechen Republic Ramzan Kadyrov:

Mr President, life in the Republic has changed since our last conversation. People have a different outlook on life…



Vladimir Putin:

This is thanks to you and the residents of the Republic.







Ramzan Kadyrov:

We are resolving many social issues. We have fulfilled the May Executive Orders and are already prepared to meet the basic indicators of the Russian Government. Our Government is already making its plans. They have tentative figures for social plans and other standards. Figures on the roads also meet world standards, and they are available as well.

Our Republic is developing peacefully. We have certain issues and if today you support us, as you always do, I think Chechnya will become a problem-free region in the near future.

After all, our region is nothing like what our Western and world adversaries say about us: “Everything bad happens there, in the Chechen Republic.” In reality, our territory is the safest and most prosperous region.

Dozens and hundreds of thousands of tourists come to our Republic today. Each of them – from America, China and Mongolia – say that their media gives them a different story and shows them a different picture. But life here is completely different. Ours is a prosperous republic.

Thank you very much for this, Mr President.







Vladimir Putin:

Credit for this primarily goes to the residents and leadership of the Republic. Everything is organised properly to reach the desired result.

Do you know what I would like to focus on? The level that has been reached, especially in terms of social indicators, the level of wages in the social sphere, I am referring to the 2012 May Executive Orders, should not go down when drafting the budgets for 2018 and subsequent years. On the contrary, it is imperative to do everything in order to keep it going up.

I am aware that in several regions, unfortunately, in connection with the drafting of budgets for this and subsequent years there is already a decline in indicators. This cannot be tolerated. Please pay special attention to this.







Ramzan Kadyrov:

By all means.

We are dealing with this, primarily with investment policy. Thanks to you, it is good, because since your last meeting with the Arab world – Abu Dhabi [UAE], Saudi Arabia, and after the Russian Direct Investment Fund started working in conjunction with Saudi Arabia and the Emirates, we have business in this area going strong.

The Emirates have opened a five-star hotel in our Republic, set up a joint fund to promote small and medium-sized businesses, and are building an international university. Saudi Arabia also promises to invest in our agriculture. In these areas, we are also making progress. I am sure we will be able to keep the pace and will continue to grow.







Vladimir Putin:

This is very important.

I am aware that you can do this, ensure the safety of these investments, a good return rate so that investing in the Republic of Chechnya is profitable and safe. This is important for creating a favourable investment climate. Then not only investors from Arab countries, but also from other countries will go to the North Caucasus and Chechnya, in particular.

Today is Eid al-Fitr, and I have already congratulated all Muslims of Russia on this holiday. I would like to extend my greetings on this holiday to you and the residents of Chechnya, and the North Caucasus, in general, where Muslims live predominantly. Of course, not only the North Caucasus, I congratulate all Muslims, including you.



Ramzan Kadyrov:

Thank you very much.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57797
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 17th, 2018 #854
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Greetings on 100th anniversary of Grabar Art Conservation Centre



Vladimir Putin congratulated employees and veterans of the Grabar Art Conservation Centre on its 100th anniversary.



June 10, 2018 - 10:00



The message reads, in part:

“Great, intense artistic work by several generations of historians, art experts, artists, master-restorers – talented people, committed to their chosen job, true enthusiasts, who devoted their lives to preserving invaluable treasures of the Russian and world culture, stand behind this impressive date.

Igor Grabar, an outstanding scientist, an educator, a great expert in art, played a huge role in the establishment and development of the centre. The principle proposed by him, involving careful treatment of the true artist’s original intention and the structure of the work became fundamental in the creation of the national school of scientific restoration.

It is important that the current employees of the renowned Grabar centre value the traditions of their predecessors, train qualified specialists and strengthen international cooperation. And it is symbolic that although they have their own specialised departments, major museums of Russia and many foreign states entrust employees of the Grabar Art Conservation Centre with the restoration of the most complicated and unique exhibits.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57724






Greetings to 15th Russian Presidential Cup horse races



Vladimir Putin has sent his greetings to participants and guests of the 15th Russian Presidential Cup horse races



June 10, 2018 - 11:00



The message reads, in part:

“By uniting specialists and numerous fans of equestrian sports at Russia’s oldest Central Moscow Hippodrome, these prestigious, spectacular competitions demonstrate the best achievements of breeders of race horses, the skill of jockeys and coaches, and also facilitate the popularisation and development of national horse breeding.

Such a dignified tournament also promotes the strengthening of professional contacts, the exchange of accumulated experience, and the enhancement of the wonderful traditions of the national horse riding school.

I am certain that the 15th Russian Presidential Cup horse races will be held with the highest standards of organisation and be a true gift for all those present.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57723






Greetings on fifth anniversary of Russian Popular Front



Vladimir Putin congratulated participants of the event dedicated to the fifth anniversary of the Russian Popular Front’s founding congress.



June 12, 2018 - 10:50



The message reads, in part:

“Over the years, the Russian Popular Front has brought together a huge number of likeminded people, and has proved to be a powerful, effective force capable of achieving solutions to important problems that matter to people, and key tasks related to the development of the country and society. Through real deeds, you strengthen the principles of transparency and honesty; you fight corruption and indifference, and make government more responsive to citizens’ needs. Your large-scale, much needed projects – from improving the quality of education, medical aid and environmental conditions, to beautification efforts, support for volunteering and other no less important initiatives – always enjoy public support, and produce tangible, concrete results. People trust us and we need to value this trust. We must not be satisfied with what we have achieved; we must keep moving forward with determination.

And finally, I would like to note that your work is rooted in such timeless core values as genuine love for the Motherland, taking a personal stake in its present and future, and respect for the culture and traditions of our multinational people.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57737






Greetings to Amur National Youth Educational Forum



Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to the participants and guests at the Amur National Youth Educational Forum.



June 13, 2018 - 08:00



The message reads, in part:

“I am delighted that the initiative of holding youth educational forums in various regions of Russia is so widely supported. And today, the new, comprehensive and very interesting Amur project is being launched here, in the Khabarovsk Territory. It has prospects to become a popular and in many ways unique platform for meetings as well as fruitful discussions between talented, active and energetic young men and women. In the centre of our attention are the key issues concerning the development of the country and, of course, the joint plans and promising programmes aimed at using the huge potential of the Russian Far East.

I am sure that such a rich agenda and excellent opportunities for informal, friendly discussions will serve as a good foundation for the development of ambitious, breakthrough solutions which will definitely be implemented.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57739






Gala concert of world opera stars



Vladimir Putin attended a gala concert of world opera stars timed to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.



June 13, 2018 - 23:00 - Red Square, Moscow






The musical celebration held on Red Square featured the Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra led by Valery Gergiev, world famous singers Anna Netrebko, Yusif Eyvazov, Ildar Abdrazakov, Aida Garifullina, Albina Shagimuratova and special guests – singers Placido Domingo and Juan Diego Florez.


































The initiator and artistic director of the concert, as well as its host was pianist Denis Matsuyev; top Russian model, founder of the Naked Heart Foundation, Natalia Vodianova was the co-host. The programme included Russian music and famous pieces from the West European classical repertoire: arias from the operas of Donizetti, Bizet, Verdi and Puccini.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57776






Condolences on the passing of Stanislav Govorukhin



Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences to the family and friends of film director Stanislav Govorukhin.



June 14, 2018 - 11:45







His movie - Ten little negroes (1987) - https://vnnforum.com/showpost.php?p=...8&postcount=23



The message reads, in part:

“Stanislav Govorukhin, an outstanding film director and actor, a vivid, unconventional, strong-willed personality, has passed away. In both cinematography and his public activity, Mr Govorukhin worked with the utmost dedication, firmly upholding his creative and civic position. That earned him rightful and incontestable respect.

The loving memory of this wonderful man will forever be in our hearts.”

Film director, actor, National Artist of Russia, State Duma deputy, Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Culture Stanislav Govorukhin died on June 14 at the age of 82.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57778






2018 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony



Vladimir Putin took part in the 2018 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony at Luzhniki Stadium.



June 14, 2018 - 20:00 - Moscow






The ceremony was also attended by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, heads of state and government of Abkhazia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Moldova, Panama, Paraguay, Rwanda, South Ossetia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, and Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly of the DPRK Kim Yong-nam.

The opening match of the World Cup between the national teams of Russia and Saudi Arabia ended in a 5–0 win for Russia.

During half-time, the President of Russia chatted with Vice Premier of the State Council of China Sun Chunlan, President of Moldova Igor Dodon and former President of France Nicolas Sarkozy, among others.

Earlier today and the day before, Vladimir Putin held bilateral meetings with the leaders of a number of countries who arrived for the opening of the World Cup.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Friends,

I welcome all guests to the legendary Moscow stadium Luzhniki, everyone gathered in the numerous fan zones of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and those watching us on television or online.













I congratulate you – the entire large, multinational, tightly-knit international football family – on the start of the top tournament on the planet!
















This major sporting event is being held in Russia for the first time, and we are sincerely happy about it. In our country, football is not just the most popular sport. People genuinely love football. And it was love at first sight, from the first official match that took place in Russia in 1897.
















We prepared responsibly for this major event and did our best so that fans, athletes and specialists could immerse themselves in the atmosphere of this magnificent football festival and, of course, enjoy their stay in Russia – open, hospitable, friendly Russia – and find new friends here, new like-minded people.
















Consider this: without exaggeration, there are billions of people on the planet who are devoted football fans. And wherever we live, no matter our traditions, we all are united as one team by our love for this spectacular, dazzling, uncompromising game. And so all the members of this team understand each other well, they have a good sense of each other.
















It is in this unity, which bends neither to differences in language, nor in ideology, nor in faith, that the great power of football, of sport in general, the power of its humanistic principles, lies.
















Our task is to preserve this power, this unity for future generations, for the sake of developing sport and strengthening peace and mutual understanding among peoples.
















I wish success to all the teams, and unforgettable impressions to fans.

Welcome to Russia!













FIFA President Gianni Infantino:

(In Russian.) Dear friends,

Welcome to the World Cup!
















(In English.) Dear friends,

Welcome to the FIFA World Cup here in Russia!
















As of today, for one month, football will conquer Russia. And from Russia, football will conquer the entire world. Enjoy the biggest celebration on earth! Thank you, President Putin! Thank you, Moscow!

(In Russian.) Thank you, Russia!




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57787






Greetings to Russia’s Muslims on Eid al-Fitr



Vladimir Putin offered his greetings to Russia’s Muslims on Eid al-Fitr.



June 15, 2018 - 09:00



The message reads, in part:

“This holiday is marked around the country, both in religious communities, in the family and with friends. Over many years, Russia’s Muslim organisations have been actively involved in the life of the nation, highlighting the preservation of the family and family values, charity and education. They do all they can to maintain ethnic and religious peace and to encourage young people’s respect for the customs and traditions of their forefathers. This hard, selfless and fruitful work deserves our respect and support.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57790






Memorial service for Stanistav Govorukhin



June 16, 2018 - 10:00 - Moscow







Vladimir Putin visited the Church of the Transfiguration of Christ at the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, where he attended a memorial service for actor, film director, screenwriter, producer, writer, political and public activist, State Duma deputy, chairman of the State Duma Committee on Culture Stanislav Govorukhin.

The President paid his last respects to Stanislav Govorukhin, laid flowers on his coffin, and personally expressed his condolences to the widow. Stanislav Govorukhin died on June 14 at the age of 82 after a long illness.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

This is a very sad day, a day of mourning. We are bidding our last respects to Stanislav Govorukhin, a man who is known and loved by millions of our people. They love him primarily for his creative work, for his iconic films.

I would like to speak on behalf of ordinary spectators, and I have always considered myself one of them. When we look at the cinema screen, we see our favourite actors perform, we are carried away by the plot, and as a rule we do not remember the person who remains off-screen, who is not seen yet is the one who made it all.

It is the director, like a conductor of a large symphony orchestra, who selects the piece, casts the performers, primarily the soloists, makes the instruments sound or make a meaningful pause. And Stanislav Govorukhin could do it like a genius; he was a truly great artist.







I met him not very long ago, in late 2011; we became close friends when he agreed to head my election campaign and then co-chaired the Russian Popular Front.

“You do not have to be a poet, but a citizen you must surely be [a quote form Nikolai Nekrasov’s 1865 poem The Poet and the Citizen] – these words are exactly about him. It was a great pleasure and great honour for me to personally get acquainted with Stanislav Govorukhin and talk with him.

As it turned out, it was not his administrative or even political support as a State Duma deputy that turned out to be important. What was important for me was his moral support because he reminded me once again that we have a great many real patriots in our country, citizens and people with their own firm stand who can stand up for it without looking back at some current selfish considerations but rather guided by the country’s interests the way they understand them.







Stanislav Govorukhin was certainly one of the select few. He had and he will forever have in afterlife the seal of the Lord, he surely had it and has it. His star will shine brightly in the skies, and millions of people will remember him. He will remain in my heart forever.

I offer my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and disciples.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57798






Meeting with Valentina Tereshkova



Vladimir Putin met with pilot cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova. The President in person congratulated her on the remarkable date – the 55th anniversary of her single-person flight around the Earth aboard the Vostok-6 spaceship, which began on June 16, 1963, and lasted almost three days.



June 16, 2018 - 16:15 - The Kremlin, Moscow







Valentina Tereshkova is the world’s first female cosmonaut, Hero of the Soviet Union, pilot cosmonaut, the only woman to make a solo space flight. Today Valentina Tereshkova is a State Duma deputy, Deputy Chairperson of the State Duma Committee on Federative Structure and Local Government.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Ms Tereshkova, please accept my sincere congratulations on this anniversary – 55 years of your space flight.



Valentina Tereshkova:

Thank you very much. It is unbelievable how much time has elapsed!



Vladimir Putin:

I would like to say in this regard that you are not only the world’s first female cosmonaut, I think you remain the only female cosmonaut and astronaut who has made a solo flight: all the other women were crewmembers.



Valentina Tereshkova:

Could I also be a crewmember so as to explore all the possibilities?



Vladimir Putin:

Would you like to make another flight? (Laughter).







Valentina Tereshkova:

We were at the cosmodrome, Mr President, to see a crew off.



Vladimir Putin:

I saw it.



Valentina Tereshkova:

Good boys, well trained. Our Governor [Dmitry Mironov, Governor of Yaroslavl Region, where Valentina Tereshkova comes from] was greatly impressed both by the space centre and the launch.



Vladimir Putin:

Ms Tereshkova, we all know you and love you very much. But not everyone is aware that your flight did not go all that smoothly. As far as I know, there were failures in the control system, and you had to orient the spaceship manually, didn’t you?



Valentina Tereshkova:

There was a failure. I think it was caused by a mistake. The braking engine was programmed to raise the orbit, not to descend, not to push the spaceship down. I noticed it during the first rounds around the planet and reported to Earth.

Sergei Korolev [Chief Designer of the USSR space industry] had Yevgeny Shabarov [Deputy Chief Designer] deal with that, Mr Korolev sent him off from the cosmodrome on foot.

No, he was a very smart, good engineer. I made some adjustments, put in the data the control centre gave me. I put in the data and everything was in order. I reported it, and the rest of the flight went fine. So, Mr President, when we showed you the film The Spacewalker – of course, no flight went without setbacks, there were always some problems.



Vladimir Putin:

The flight went fine but the landing was also not easy.



Valentina Tereshkova:

The landing… It was Altai Territory and the dried shore of Lake Kulundinskoye. The wind was strong, so it really hit hard.

Mr President, I am sorry, you have been tortured with questions. Meanwhile, in one of our conversations, we raised this issue and I know that you have signed an important document.

I would like to bring up the Volga again – it has algal bloom. And this is a great Russian river, I so badly want it to remain the Mother Volga, the river that nourishes us. It is painful to look at it during algal bloom.

Can I ask you to take it under your control? Because if you do not, it can take a long time.







Vladimir Putin:

We now have a programme on the Volga River, so we will pursue it.



Valentina Tereshkova:

Dmitry Medvedev said the funds had been allocated but they are in custody of Anton Siluanov [First Deputy Prime Minister – Finance Minister].



Vladimir Putin:

No, they have been allocated by the Government. It does not matter where the funds are, they are available and are earmarked for these purposes. We have a programme, and we will be pursuing it.



Valentina Tereshkova:

We also have problems at the Mendeleyev oil refinery. It is upstream of the town of Tutayev. It produces top aircraft oils. We have a lot of nature but we are rather careless about it.

It has already reached the Volga, but so far, it is not in the water but in the soil. They are now puncturing the soil to see the depth to which those green oils are deposited. It is certainly a great threat to the Volga; this is why we raise this question.



Vladimir Putin:

I will look into it, Ms Tereshkova.



Valentina Tereshkova:

Please do.

And may I also ask you to take care of yourself? We all worry about you. How can we, people from Yaroslavl, help you?



Vladimir Putin:

You are already doing it – the Governor is doing a great job.



Valentina Tereshkova:

Thank you for the Governor, we are pleased with him. People like him, and of course, much has been done.



Vladimir Putin:

He is an honourable and hard-working person, and a talented one to a degree.



Valentina Tereshkova:

Can we keep him for a while?



Vladimir Putin:

He started just recently, so let him work.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57801
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 24th, 2018 #855
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Greetings on the opening of the 13th Forum of Creative and Academic Intellectuals of the CIS Member States



Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to participants and guests of the 13th Forum of Creative and Academic Intellectuals of the CIS Member States, which has opened in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan.



June 19, 2018 - 10:00



The message reads, in part:

“For many years, this forum has been a major humanitarian event held in the Commonwealth of Independent States. An effective and relevant occasion, the forum offers broad opportunities for informal and earnest interaction between representatives of science, culture, the arts and education, as well as journalists.

The forum’s main theme this year, Dialogue in the CIS – Prospects for Humanitarian Cooperation in the 21st Century, is highly relevant. You will discuss a broad range of questions related to the development of public, youth and expert contacts, and coordinate several large-scale programmes and projects, many of which will be implemented during the Year of Culture that is underway in the CIS.

I am confident that your proposals and initiatives will help us boost integration processes within the CIS and strengthen friendship and mutual understanding between our nations.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57807






Vladimir Putin arrived in Belarus



The President of Russia arrived on a working visit to the Republic of Belarus, where he will attend the Union State Supreme State Council meeting.



June 19, 2018 - 14:50 - Minsk
















The President will also hold talks in Minsk with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko to exchange views on current bilateral and international issues, in particular, cooperation as part of integration formats and at international platforms.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57808






Meeting with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko



Vladimir Putin met with President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko in Minsk.



June 19, 2018 - 15:25 - Minsk







The President of Russia arrived in Belarus on a working visit to attend a meeting of the Supreme State Council of the Union State of Russia and Belarus. The Russian delegation includes Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko and State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin.








President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko:

Mr President,

Despite a difficult time, we must continue our work. As we agreed back before the election, we are holding a meeting of the Supreme State Council of the Union State of Russia and Belarus today. It is a good start for the St Petersburg battle. Let us hope that it will go as Russia hopes. We are on your side in this case.







We are ready for a meeting of the Supreme State Council. We have prepared the agenda and coordinated its issues. I suggest that we discuss three main matters. Decisions on all other issues have been prepared in advance and I propose adopting them without discussion.







As we traditionally do, we will polish off the remaining issues, which are in the works and on which we must take a decision, at a restricted format meeting before the meeting of the Supreme State Council. I suggest that we discuss them in a restricted format, if this suits you.

But before we start, I would like to welcome all our comrades and colleagues to Minsk, a hero city and the capital of Belarus. I am sure we will have a productive meeting and that we will resolve all the issues that have not been settled at a meeting of the Union Council of Ministers.







President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Thank you, Mr President.

Thank you for taking the trouble to organise our meeting in Minsk. I know that you have prepared great many topics, primarily at the level of governments and ministries. Our colleagues have moved forward a great deal towards settling the remaining issues. If there are any outstanding questions left, we can discuss them in this format.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57810






Meeting of the Union State Supreme State Council



Vladimir Putin took part in the meeting of the Union State Supreme State Council.



June 19, 2018 - 19:45 - Minsk







The Union State’s main activities include the development and promotion of common approaches to pressing issues on the international agenda, the Russian President emphasized in his speech.

Vladimir Putin also noted that Russia and Belarus maintain very close contact in international organisations and regional associations, such as the UN, the OSCE, the CIS and the CSTO, to name a few.

Following the meeting of the Union State Supreme State Council, the leaders of the two countries adopted a joint statement reaffirming their mutual commitment to strengthen and promote the strategic partnership between Russia and Belarus.

In addition, the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus have approved the 2018–2019 programme of joint actions in foreign policy and a number of other documents.

Following the consultations, Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko made press statements.








President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko:

Mr President, colleagues,

I would like to welcome all of you once again to the capital of Belarus. The Supreme State Council meeting held almost a year ago was fairly productive and the agreements reached there stepped up bilateral cooperation in many areas.







In 2017 we overcame a decline in trade and saw an increase. Today it is very important to consolidate our positive trends and ensure further trade growth between our countries, in part by removing mutual barriers and confiscations and by creating an equitable competitive environment.

Recently, the resolving of some pressing issues is being transferred from one integration format to another, for example, to the Eurasian Economic Union. I believe we should avoid this in the future; we are capable of resolving our problems within the Union State. I believe that if problems interfere with our relations, they should be resolved here and now.







We do not need to discuss separate issues with countries that are not involved in them to reach a consensus. This is why I would like to draw your attention again to the coordinating role of the 2 that should be able to ensure consistent and regular cooperation between the relevant ministries and departments of Belarus and Russia.

I would like to ask Mr Grigory Rapota [State Secretary of the Union State of Russia and Belarus] to study everything as thoroughly as possible and get a clear picture of the balance of interests of both sides on the issues discussed in the Standing Committee.







A week ago I instructed our Government to make sure that no talks are held without the participation of our Chief of the Executive Office, Mr Rapota. They should be aware of these things, and I believe, Mr President, it would make sense to transfer our disputable issues to the Standing Committee and discuss them there with the experts.

Our cooperation in foreign policy is systematic and multifaceted. Belarus and Russia have the same or similar positions on the main global challenges and support each other in international organisations. The two foreign ministries work together constructively to implement joint programmes.







Protecting our citizens’ interests is a special topic in our union’s construction. The necessary level of various rights and freedoms has already been attained. At least we have promoted the Union of Belarus and Russia further than any integration process.

There are several issues to resolve, such as the procedure of crossing the border between Russia and Belarus. We have agreed that we will address these problems soon. By the way, this is a good example: we understand Russia’s position on introducing elements of border control in order to provide security during the FIFA World Cup, but expect all other issues related to crossing the Russia-Belarus border to be settled.







Interregional ties underwrite our integration, with 80 Russian regions having trade and economic relations with Belarus and 300 cooperation agreements signed at the regional and municipal level. Joint forums of Belarusian and Russian regions have been held since 2014, and the next one will take place in Mogilev this October.

Mr President, I have sent an invitation to you. We have always attended these forums. The Mogilev Region is close to Russia. I think we will attend this forum together; our Eastern friends expect us there.







Colleagues, life does not stand still and demands that we constantly move forward. Approving priority tasks for the development of the Union State in the next five years is one of the key issues on today’s agenda.

All governing bodies of the Union State should take part in achieving these priorities. I am sure that we can overcome the challenges presented by the international situation only by joining our efforts. This approach is in keeping with the principles of our integration project.







Thank you.

Let me give the floor to President Vladimir Putin for his opening remarks.







President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, colleagues,

I would like to reiterate Russia's interest in further promoting the Union State and expanding political and economic integration with Belarus.







Next year, our countries will mark the 20th anniversary of the Treaty Establishing the Union State. Since then, much has been accomplished. We have improved our trade and investment and science and technology ties, as well as cultural ties, and strengthened the legal framework in all areas of cooperation.

As was just mentioned, we will use this meeting to approve the list of priority areas and tasks for promoting the Union State. This fundamental document will identify key benchmarks for joint work for the next five years.







Trade inside the Union should be further expanded and diversified. Last year, trade increased by almost a quarter (23.5 percent) to $32.5 billion (32.4). In January-April, trade was up by another 18.5 percent.

With these positive dynamics in place, $50 billion in bilateral trade is well within our reach. The amount of accumulated Russian investment in Belarus economy is over $3.9 billion. In turn, Belarusian companies have invested about $620 million in Russia.







We consider it important to consistently improve the business and investment climate, to pursue coordinated financial, monetary and fiscal, and tax policies, and to continue to harmonise regulations. We are willing to take additional steps in order to ramp up industrial cooperation. We already have promising joint projects.

I will mention in particular that Russian companies are building a plant in Belarus for producing carbon black, which is used in the automotive and chemical industries, a construction materials factory, and cereal processing plants (those are the most widely known projects). That’s about $400 million as of today.







There are good opportunities for deepening cooperation between Russia and Belarus in the energy sector. In late 2019, the first generating unit of the Belarusian nuclear power plant will be launched, and the second in 2020. Russian investment in the construction of the plant will amount to $10 billion.

Our countries are implementing joint projects to modernise Belarus' gas distribution system. Until 2020, Russia will invest about $2.5 billion in renovating the Belarusian section of the Yamal-Europe gas pipeline and over one billion in the construction of additional underground gas storage facilities.







Given the poor technical condition of other routes for exporting Russian hydrocarbons, in particular, gas to Europe, the Belarusian route has gained importance.

It appears that we should jointly promote an increase in production of high-tech products by enterprises of our respective countries. It is important to incentivise Russian and Belarusian businesses to more energetically introduce innovations into the real sector of the economy, to encourage researchers and professionals to develop new technologies. It is for this purpose that the Union State science and technology prize has been established.







Our multifaceted region-to-region cooperation is very productive, as the President just mentioned. More than 80 Russian regions maintain close trade and economic ties with Belarus. Over 320 contracts and agreements have been concluded at the regional level.

We look forward to new promising initiatives being launched following the 5th Forum of Russian and Belarusian Regions. As the President said, we traditionally attend. I hope that this year we will also take part in it.







Advancing the social and cultural sphere needs a lot of the Union State’s attention. It is important to work together and step up cultural, educational and youth exchanges between Russia and Belarus. In this context, we support the draft resolution on awarding the literature and art prize prepared by the Supreme State Council of the Union State for this meeting. The recipients include prominent cultural figures and performance groups which have made a truly significant contribution to strengthening fraternal ties between the peoples of Russia and Belarus.

Developing and promoting common approaches to important issues on the international agenda is the Union State’s key area of focus. Following this meeting, a foreign policy programme for the next two years will be approved.

We are pleased to note that our countries maintain close cooperation in international organisations and regional associations. We work together at the UN, OSCE, CIS, CSTO, EAEU and other organisations.

In closing, I want to thank the President and all our friends for making this meeting in the Belarusian capital today possible.

Thank you.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57811






Press statements following Union State Supreme State Council meeting



Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko made press statements following the Union State Supreme State Council meeting.



June 19, 2018 - 20:00 - Minsk








President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko:

Friends,

First, let me once again give a warm welcome to the President of Russia and the leadership of the Russian Federation in Belarus. As you know, this is worth a lot, because there is probably no other country that Russia’s senior officials visit like they do Belarus. We appreciate this, Mr President.

At today’s meeting of the Union State Supreme State Council, we discussed issues concerning the further expansion of bilateral cooperation, the development of integration processes and the promotion of economic cooperation. Our project is a stable platform for strengthening relations between Russia and Belarus.

The ultimate goal remains the same: to increase the dynamics of the two countries’ socioeconomic development and improve the lives of our people. Last year and early this year we reached stable growth in bilateral trade.

We must provide for the further growth of trade between the two countries, including by creating an equitable competitive environment. This is the topic to which we dedicated most of our time today.

Reviewing the Union State’s priorities for the next five years was an important element of our talks today. An increase in systematic cooperation between the two countries’ relevant agencies is one of the key tools needed to implement the goals stipulated in this document. This task is assigned to the Standing Committee of the Union State.

Close attention was also given to interregional cooperation as a pivotal component of bilateral ties. Today, 80 Russian regions maintain trade and economic relations with Belarus, with 300 cooperation agreements singed at the regional or municipal level.

This October, the 5th Forum of Russian and Belarusian Regions will be held in Mogilev. As I mentioned, I have invited President Vladimir Putin to visit this event, which is important for the development of bilateral ties.

We also discussed the importance of coordinating the work of our foreign ministries. Russia and Belarus have the same views on major international issues and support each other in international organisations. It will always remain this way.

The implementation of a programme of coordinated efforts in foreign policy for 2018–2019 remains important. We will continue coordinating our approaches to issues related to regional and European security, as well as cooperation in countering new challenges and threats.

Disputed matters that occasionally emerge in Russian-Belarusian relations will be addressed in the spirit of mutual understanding and compromise, something that our departments have, in fact, already been doing. This was once again confirmed during my meeting with Mr President at the last meeting of the Supreme State Council.

We intend to continue our constructive dialogue in all areas of cooperation. The full potential of the Union State will be used to ensure the stable development of our countries and improve the wellbeing of our people.

I am confident that today we have managed to lend visible impetus to the further strengthening of the fraternal partnership between Belarus and Russia.

Thank you.

Mr President, please.



President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Colleagues,

Let me start with our bilateral meeting with the President of Belarus. The meeting was useful and substantive: in a traditionally friendly and constructive atmosphere we discussed the whole range of important matters pertaining to Russian-Belarusian cooperation. And, of course, topics regarding international cooperation were also touched on.

Likewise, the Supreme State Council meeting was used to sum up the results of the Union State's activity and outline new tasks for further development. The recently signed joint statement reiterates our mutual desire to strengthen and expand the strategic partnership between Russia and Belarus.

Naturally, special emphasis was placed on economic cooperation. We have seen good results within the framework of the Union State. I am referring to the dynamic increase in mutual trade and investment. In 2017, Russian-Belarusian trade increased 23.5 percent to $32.4 billion. Trade in both directions increased in almost all sectors, from agriculture to high value-added goods.

Russian investors rank first in terms of the volume of investment in the Belarusian economy. Towards the end of last year, more than $3.9 billion worth of Russian investment came to Belarus and $620 million worth of Belarusian investment came to Russia.

We have approved a list of priorities for the development of the Union State over the next four years, from 2018 to 2022. Priority tasks include improving the business climate, eliminating the remaining barriers and limitations for the free flow of goods, services, capital and workforce, and further harmonising the regulatory framework. Russia and Belarus are to implement a joint macroeconomic, credit, currency, price, and tax policy.

Energy has always been one of the most important areas of Russian-Belarusian cooperation. Russia is a reliably supplier of energy resources to Belarus – 4.5 million tonnes of oil and 6 billion cubic metres of gas in the first quarter of this year – and is participating in a programme to upgrade Belarus’ gas distribution system. Russia is building a Belarusian nuclear power plant that will fully meet the country’s growing demand for electricity.

We have agreed with our Belarusian partners to boost cooperation in industry and expand science-driven production. Russian and Belarusian bank resources as well as private investors will be involved in financing high-tech projects.

The Union State Prize for Science and Technology we have established today will be awarded to scientists and specialists who have distinguished themselves by developing and commercialising new technology.

During our talks at the Union State Supreme State Council meeting we noted with satisfaction the successful cooperation between Russia and Belarus in the humanitarian area. A programme of cooperation between the ministries of culture is being implemented. This autumn the Days of Russia festival will open in Belarus as well as the annual Yury Bashmet International Music Festival. Several prominent Russian and Belarusian cultural figures and groups have been awarded Union State prizes for their achievements in literature and the arts.

The President of Belarus and I have discussed developments in international and regional affairs, such as promoting cooperation in foreign policy and providing defence and security for the Union State. We adopted the 2018–2019 programme of joint actions in foreign policy.

In conclusion I would like to express my traditional gratitude to the President of Belarus for organising today’s work and for the atmosphere that was created to reach these agreements.

Thank you very much.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57813






Meeting with President of Portugal Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa



Vladimir Putin held talks with President of Portugal Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa at the Kremlin.



June 20, 2018 - 14:10 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, colleagues,

We are delighted to see you in Moscow. Thank you for coming to Russia.

The Portuguese team is one of the most interesting teams in Europe and the world, and it has very many fans in Russia. Of course, we support and cheer primarily for the Russian team, but as the organisers of this tournament, we are also working to create equal conditions for all the national teams, which we regard as friends.

We are assisted in this undertaking by the fans, both Russian fans, who are creating the necessary atmosphere together with the volunteers, and the fans of the other national teams, who have come to Russia and are travelling around all the host cities of the World Cup.







Of course, some teams are bound to and will experience the bitter taste of defeat, which is inevitable at such tournaments, but this cannot poison the general atmosphere of a football festival.

We are satisfied with the progress of the championship, and we are grateful for this to everyone, including the athletes, experts, coaches and the teams’ fans. Our stadiums are filled to capacity, and I am sure that the match your team will play today is sold out as well.

This is an opportunity to meet on the sidelines of this major sports event to discuss bilateral relations. I am very pleased that our trade soared by 37 percent last year.

We are delighted to see you. Welcome.







President of Portugal Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa (retranslated):

Thank you very much, Mr President.

It is an honour and a pleasure to be here today. I would like to congratulate you on the excellent organisation of the championship. The whole world is watching this World Cup with great interest and passion. We, the Portuguese, have a special passion for football, so we are closely following the tournament.

Yesterday I took a walk around Moscow, used your metro and found a great number of Russian fans there who were just so happy about yesterday’s win. I hope to feel the same joy two hours from now, when we take on Morocco.

We might have a little problem if we have to play against each other. Because, as far as I understand, Russia has already secured first place in the group; Portugal will make every effort to also leave the group in the lead.

If this happens, we will inevitably play a match, and even the best friendship in the world cannot rival sporting procedures. Unfortunately, there cannot be two winners: it is either one or the other. For our part, we certainly have Cristiano Ronaldo, but on the other hand, the Russian team is in excellent shape, and it is playing on home ground.

Anyway, whatever the outcome of that match, if it happens, I hope this will not affect our diplomatic relations.







Vladimir Putin:

I am sure everything will be fine and our relations will not be damaged, no matter what the outcome of the tournament is. On the contrary, sports bring countries and nations closer together. As the host country of this event, as the organising country, we are happy for anyone who wins, and we feel for those who do not win.

But if we do meet, each of us will be supporting our own teams, of course.







Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa:

Mr President, you have already noted that our economic cooperation is growing. We have a lot of interesting projects being promoted now, in particular in the field of tourism and energy as well as cooperation between universities, science, technology, healthcare, and the supply of certain products. This is a very important sign for our bilateral relations.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57814






Meeting with President of Senegal Macky Sall



Vladimir Putin met with President of the Republic of Senegal Macky Sall.



June 20, 2018 - 17:10 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, friends,

It is a pleasure to see you again.



President of the Republic of Senegal Macky Sall (retranslated):

Thank you very much; I am honoured to be in the Kremlin today.







Vladimir Putin:

I am also pleased to see you, and I want to congratulate you on your national team's victory yesterday. The Polish team is made up of talented players and is a strong team. And everyone still has good chances of making the playoffs.

With regard to our bilateral relations, I would like to note the significant growth in trade. It tripled last year, and is already up 100 percent, I think, since the beginning of 2018.

We enjoy good cooperation in international organisations and have good prospects in a number of areas of interaction, such as infrastructure, industrial cooperation and fisheries.

We are very pleased to see you.







Macky Sall:

Thank you very much, Mr President.

First of all, I would like to say that it is a great honour for me as the first President of Senegal to come to the Kremlin on such a visit. I also want to thank you for the excellent organisation of the championship. Also, congratulations on your recent re-election.

I visited St Petersburg during the G20 summit. It is a very beautiful city.

Speaking about our cooperation, I am very pleased that we are witnessing some degree of recovery and new momentum in our relations. I hope that with your support and help, we will be able to improve our trade and investment cooperation.

Senegal is at a crossroads. We are open to new partnerships. In addition to our traditional partners, such as France and the United States, we are interested in cooperating with China, Turkey and, of course, Russia.

We believe that Russia holds a very important place in our cooperation. I think we should expand the scope of our cooperation.

The Foreign Minister of Senegal once visited Moscow. I know that, among other things, fisheries and cooperation in the field of hydrocarbon production were discussed, since we have large reserves of oil and gas. We would like Russia to help us evaluate our resources and, in general, master the technology for developing our fields.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57817






Meeting with Council of Europe Secretary General Thorbjorn Jagland



Vladimir Putin received Secretary General of the Council of Europe Thorbjorn Jagland at the Kremlin.



June 20, 2018 - 17:40 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Secretary General, colleagues,

I would like to welcome you all to Moscow.

I believe we met last in December 2016, and I know well your position on Russia’s full cooperation with the Council of Europe. We appreciate and share this position, of course. As I see it, we will discuss this issue today.

I know you have a large itinerary in Russia this time, including the FIFA World Cup matches. I hope you will not be disappointed.

Welcome.







Secretary General of the Council of Europe Thorbjorn Jagland (English transcript):

Thank you very much, Mr President, and thank you indeed for accepting to have this meeting at a crucial point for our organisation and, I would say, for Europe as a whole.

Congratulations for your re-election, which was indeed very impressive. Congratulations for the very successful world championship. Actually, we had a dinner with some friends in Moscow yesterday but we were half watching the football game between Egypt and Russia. All of us were very happy that you won, so congratulations on that as well.

Twenty years have passed since the Russian Federation acceded the European Convention of Human Rights; and we have done a lot of good things together. It has been very important for Europe and for us as an organisation that you decided to join the convention, and I think it has been important for the Russian Federation and for the Russian people.







There is always a lot of focus on the European Court, and for all of the member countries there are judgments that they dislike, but, all in all, I would say that the justice of the court has been very important for all of the member states.

We have here a small brochure, which shows how the court has influenced, in a positive way, many ways of life in the Russian Federation. This is, actually, the meaning of the court: to help its member states come closer together by adopting laws that are in conformity with the Convention. So again, thank you for all these twenty years and thank you for your strong commitment to the Council of Europe. We will come back to some problems later on.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57818






Meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres



Vladimir Putin met with the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres.



June 20, 2018 - 19:10 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Secretary-General, colleagues,

Allow me to greet all of you.

We met last, I think, a year ago, at the economic forum in St. Petersburg.

Russia is presiding over the Security Council now; I hope the work is constructive and intensive.







You know that we have always advocated and continue supporting the leading and central role of the United Nations in international affairs.

The UN office in our country will celebrate its 70th anniversary soon. We are ready to continue constructive cooperation.

We believe that the UN is the only universal platform of its kind, and its Charter lays the groundwork for modern international public law. Its role as a universal tool for resolving and preventing crises in international affairs is absolutely unique.

Welcome.







UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres:

Your Excellency,Mr President, it is an enormous pleasure to be back in Moscow.

As you rightly said, Russia is now presiding in the Security Council, and I believe that there are two landmark moments during the presidency: first, the presidential declaration on Ukraine and second, the debate on the Middle East that we will have before the end of the month.







Of course, we look at the Russian Federation as a founder of the United Nations and as a permanent member of the Security Council, but I would say that at the present moment we look at the Russian Federation as an indispensable element of the creation of a new multipolar world.







To be entirely frank, these are not easy times for multilateralism and not easy times for the UN. And I think that after the Cold War and after a short period of unipolar world we are still struggling to find a way to have a structured, multipolar world with multilateral governmental institutions that can work. And this is something that worries me a lot and is something in which, I believe, the Russian Federation has a unique role to play.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57819






Telephone conversation with President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko



Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko at the Ukrainian side’s initiative.



June 21, 2018 - 14:45



The two leaders discussed crisis settlement in southeastern Ukraine taking into consideration the meetings of the Normandy Four (Russia, Germany, Ukraine and France) foreign ministers and consultations among aides to the Normandy Four leaders.

The Russian President reaffirmed that there was no alternative to the 2015 Package of Measures as the foundation of a political settlement of the domestic Ukrainian conflict and noted the importance of stepping up negotiating efforts as part of the Minsk Contact Group and in the Normandy Four format.

Vladimir Putin expressed his concern over the escalation in Donbass and the growing number of civilian casualties after the shelling of the region by Ukrainian armed forces increased in frequency.

The leaders exchanged views on the Russian initiative to set up a UN mission to facilitate the protection of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission in Ukraine.

They also raised the issues of exchanging detainees and visits by human rights commissioners from both countries to Russian citizens detained in Ukraine and Ukrainians detained in Russia.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57822






Russia-South Korea talks



Vladimir Putin held talks with President of the Republic of Korea Moon Jae-in, who is currently on a state visit in Russia.



June 22, 2018 - 16:30 - The Kremlin, Moscow







Following the official welcoming ceremony, Vladimir Putin and Moon Jae-in had a discussion on the key aspects of bilateral cooperation and their countries’ approaches to settling current international problems. The consultations continued in expanded format with the participation of the two countries’ delegations.



















Following the talks, a Joint Statement by the Russian Federation and the Republic of Korea was adopted and a package of interdepartmental and corporate documents was signed. In particular, the documents concern building a Russia-South Korea innovation platform for the fourth industrial revolution, free trade between Russia and South Korea, convening the Russia-South Korea Forum of Interregional Cooperation, and cooperation in telecommunications and information and communications technologies.



















Other documents signed include an agreement on the Year of Cultural Exchanges in 2020 and on cooperation in physical fitness and sport, social security, power generation, the LNG business, cooperation between Russian Railways and the Korea Railroad Corporation, as well as the establishment of a Diagnostic Medical Centre in Moscow.



















Vladimir Putin and Moon Jae-in made statements for the media.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57835






Beginning of Russia-South Korea talks in restricted format



June 22, 2018 - 14:10 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, friends, colleagues,

We are very glad to welcome you to Moscow.

The Republic of Korea is one of our priority partners in Asia with the second-largest bilateral trade. We have seen a very positive tendency recently. Our trade increased significantly over the previous year and continues to grow this year. The figure is rather impressive in absolute numbers although, of course, it could be better (I think we will discuss this). Our trade is worth $20 billion.

Mr President, you know that Russia has always supported settlement of the situation on the Korean Peninsula. We have always contributed to this process and intend to further do everything in our power to resolve any disputes. I am certain we will also discuss this today during talks.

Welcome.



President of the Republic of Korea Moon Jae-in (retranslated):

Mr President,

After I visited Vladivostok in September 2017, I especially value the opportunity to make a state visit to Russia for the first time in 19 years since the last state visit by a Korean president. I would like to express my deep gratitude to President Putin for his kind invitation.

I know that today is the Day of Memory and Sorrow for those who fell in the Great Patriotic War, which began 77 years ago today. I would like to express our condolences to the memory of the fallen on behalf of the Korean people.

I would also like to use this occasion to congratulate you on the success of the football championship and on the fact that the Russian national team, which has won two matches in a row, was the first to qualify for the last 16 of the World Cup.

As a president, and having read Tolstoy and Dostoyevsky, I fell in love with Russia and dreamed of visiting this country. This explains my complex feelings about being in Moscow.

I believe that Korea and Russia are the key cooperation partners on the Korean Peninsula and the Eurasian continent. We have opted for strategic partnership with Russia and we are promoting its development as a major element of our foreign and national security policies, because the policies pursued in Korea and by President Putin are very similar. We have the New Northern Policy, while Russia has adopted a development policy for the Russian Far East, where we have common interests. This is why our cooperation in these spheres promises to be successful.

Mr President and I have a common goal: to denuclearise North Korea and to establish a lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula. We are working closely together towards these goals.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to President Putin and the Russian Government for the active support they are providing to South Korea’s position in the course of a political settlement of the situation around the Korean Peninsula, including the successful inter-Korean summit, the meeting of the leaders of North Korea and the United States, and other steps.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/57836






Beginning of Russia-South Korea talks in expanded format



June 22, 2018 - 15:30 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, colleagues,

Allow me to cordially welcome you once again – now in the expanded format.

We are happy to see all of you in Moscow, friends, and I am sure that today’s meeting will be very productive.

The President and I have discussed the most important, and sensitive issues in the narrow format. We noted that bilateral relations are developing well. We also have largely the same approaches to resolving international issues, including the North Korean nuclear programme.

Now we have an opportunity to listen to our colleagues who, I hope, will detail certain some areas of cooperation.

Thank you.



President of the Republic of Korea Moon Jae-in (retranslated):

I would like to say once again that it is a great honour to make a state visit to Russia. I would like to thank President Putin and the Russian Government for the warm reception accorded to me and the Korean delegation.

President Putin and I held useful talks on issues of mutual interest in the narrow format. In particular, we discussed guidelines for the future development of South Korea-Russia relations and the developments around the Korean Peninsula. I am happy that President Putin and I can talk about the broad commonalities in our views.

I would also like to note that President Putin and I have similar domestic policies. I know that in his address last March President Putin paid special attention to raising the living standards of the Russian people, emphasizing the importance of increasing minimal wages and improving the welfare of the people in Russia. I am pursuing the same policy in South Korea. We call it a policy of economic development, which focuses on the people. This is a people-oriented economy.

President Putin and I have a similar political philosophy. It is aimed at ensuring a good life for our countries and steady economic progress.

In addition, a complementary and mutually beneficial economic structure of our countries and a common policy aimed at developing Russia’s Far East and Korea’s northern territories will make us the best partners for each other.

I believe our people certainly support the development of bilateral cooperation oriented towards the future. There are even statistics that confirm this. A recent public opinion poll in Russia showed that the majority of people are positive about developing South Korea-Russia relations and are pinning big hopes on the consolidation of bilateral cooperation.

I hope to discuss, in the expanded format, issues of practical cooperation in the three major areas where we can achieve the most impressive success, a synergy of cooperation. I am referring to a search for the driving force of future development, progress in Eurasia’s Far East and improved living standards in South Korea and Russia.

Thank you.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/transcripts/57837






Press statements following Russia-South Korea talks



June 22, 2018 - 17:00 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen,

Talks with President of the Republic of Korea Moon Jae-in during his state visit took place in a business-like and constructive atmosphere.

We discussed the status of and prospects for bilateral relations and exchanged views on major international issues.

We reached important agreements on further expanding cooperation between Russia and the Republic of Korea, which are fixed in the adopted joint statement and a large package of just signed interdepartmental and corporate documents.

I would like to note that the Republic of Korea is Russia’s important partner in Asia and the Pacific. Relations between our states are multifaceted and based on the principles of good neighbourliness, mutual benefit and consideration for each other’s interests.

During the talks we mentioned the dynamic development of bilateral economic ties. Last year trade went up by 27 percent to $19.2 billion. In January to April trade increased by another 6.5 percent. As a result, South Korea was second among Russia’s major trade partners in Asia and the Pacific.

South Korean investment in the Russian economy reached $1.2 billion. There are over 150 large companies from South Korea in the Russian market. They are investing in many diverse areas – industry, food processing, agriculture and the hotel business.







Naturally, priority attention was paid to energy, a key area of bilateral cooperation. Russia reliably distributes energy resources to the Republic of Korea. Last year South Korean consumers received 12.5 million tonnes of oil, almost two million tonnes of LNG and 26 million tonnes of coal.

In turn, South Korean companies are helping Russia develop its hydrocarbon deposits in the Arctic. Fifteen ice-class liquefied gas carriers are being built in South Korea to transport gas from the Yamal LNG plant. The possibility of our partners from South Korea participating in the Arctic LNG-2 project on gas extraction and liquefaction is under discussion now.

We had quite a detailed discussion of cooperation between regions of the two countries. The plan is to organise the first Russia-South Korea interregional forum before the end of the year.

We proposed that South Korean investors take a more active part in implementing the programmes to develop the Russian Far East. I mean, in particular, modernisation of the free port of Vladivostok, the technological upgrade of the Zvezda shipyard, and maintaining and operating the Northern Sea Route and the Trans-Siberian Railway.

These and other promising projects will be discussed during the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in September. We would be glad to see the President of the Republic of Korea there as a guest of honour.

We certainly touched on the subject of cultural and humanitarian cooperation which, in our opinion, is developing in a positive direction. Festivals and days of culture are held annually. Our South Korean partners will participate in the 7th St Petersburg International Cultural Forum as a guest country.

Tourist exchanges are also growing. In 2017, over 260,000 South Korean citizens visited Russia, which is 62 percent more than in 2016. The number of Russian tourists who visited South Korea has also grown to 233,000, a 17 percent increase.

While discussing the international agenda, special attention was paid to the situation on the Korean Peninsula. It was noted that the situation in that region has been gradually improving lately.







Inter-Korean contacts have been re-established. Two meetings between the leaders of North and South Korea resulted in encouraging agreements.

In the same context we would like to mention the results of the recent US – North Korea summit in Singapore on June 12. We welcome Pyongyang’s and Washington’s willingness to resolve the crisis comprehensively through dialogue and talks.

We hope that this will make it possible to considerably reduce the tension around the Korean Peninsula and in the future to create conditions for building a stable security system for all countries in the region.

In conclusion I would like to express my gratitude to Mr Moon Jae-in and all the South Korean delegation for today’s talks.

This is not the end of the South Korean President’s visit to our country. Tomorrow the President will attend a football match between the teams of South Korea and Mexico in Rostov-on-Don. I am sure that it will be an entertaining game and I would like to wish all fans, those from the Republic of Korea included, unforgettable impressions of the World Cup in Russia.

On a related note, I would like to thank all our South Korean friends, Mr President, the government and people of South Korea for the friendly reception of the Russian delegation, Russian athletes and fans during the Winter Olympic Games in PyeongChang.

Thank you.







President of the Republic of Korea Moon Jae-in (retranslated):

First of all, let me express my special gratitude to President Putin and the citizens of Russia who welcomed me and the South Korean delegation so warmly.

Mr President, let me congratulate you on the successful progress of the FIFA World Cup. A holiday atmosphere reigns throughout Russia. I think that Russian citizens are so immersed in the World Cup also because Russia’s team is playing so well. South Korean fans also go without sleep to watch the World Cup. I hope this World Cup goes down as a historic championship that will unite the entire planet.

My current state visit to Russia comes nine months after my participation in the third Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. During my first meeting with President Putin back in Hamburg I proposed holding meetings at the highest level regularly and I am happy that this proposal is being acted upon.

Last year, during my visit to Vladivostok, I had a chance to see the limitless potential of the Far East and various opportunities for cooperation between the two countries. Having visited Moscow where nature, civilisation, history and the future coexist harmoniously, I am even more filled with hope for a common future of Russian-South Korean cooperation.

I believe Mr President shares my sentiments. We recognised that we have common goals – to improve our citizens’ lives – and we have agreed to work more actively in those areas of cooperation that will benefit our citizens.







First, together we will jumpstart our countries’ future development via technological cooperation and innovation. For this, we have agreed to build a Russia-South Korea innovation centre and expand the South Korea-Russia Science and Technology Cooperation Centre in Moscow. I expect more support for exchanges, joint start-ups, medium and small businesses. Cooperation in the area of new industry will become closer.

I think that the Republic of Korea’s participation in INNOPROM, Russia’s largest innovative industrial fair, as partner is very significant. I hope that bilateral cooperation in industry, innovation and innovative technology will be promoted.

In addition, I am glad that our countries will begin intergovernmental procedures to launch free trade talks for services and investment. The goal of all initiatives is for the two countries’ citizens to enjoy more economic benefits and for their quality of life to improve. In particular, I expect there will be many good jobs for young people.

Second, our countries will cooperate more closely in order to make our common vision a reality: peace and shared prosperity in the Far East and throughout Eurasia.







At the Eastern Economic Forum last September I suggested building “nine bridges” of cooperation as a strategy for implementing our vision. We, the heads of the two states, again confirmed the importance of cooperation in these nine areas, specifically including railways, electricity generation, gas, ship-building, and port infrastructure.

I hope that the plan of action on these “nine bridges” will be adopted in the next few days and that we will be able to expedite this cooperation.

We agreed to step up exchanges between local regional governments. Seventeen autonomies in the Republic of Korea and regional governments in the Russian Far East will take part in this process. I hope that this will be practical and multifaceted cooperation close to the everyday lives of our citizens.

Third, by expanding cooperation in healthcare and medicine we will improve the health and general wellbeing of our people.

Soon a South Korean hospital will open in the Skolkovo special international medical cluster. I am counting on the active role of healthcare professionals from both countries in the development and in cooperation on cancer, cardio-vascular and nervous system disorder treatment.







We will soon start cooperating on the medicine of the future, involving cutting edge ICT. In the near future it will be possible to diagnose patients remotely with digital equipment installed on a train on the Trans-Siberian Railway. I hope we will be able to save more lives by pooling the efforts of the two countries and pursuing a wise policy of cooperation in healthcare and medicine.

We also agreed to consolidate cooperation to enable the Korean Peninsula and Eurasia to jointly reap the benefits of peace and prosperity.

Preparing for the projects of trilateral cooperation between South Korea, North Korea and Russia, we agreed to work hard on the Korea-Russia bilateral track and carry out the plans that are feasible now. It is possible to begin this work by conducting joint bilateral studies on uniting the railways, electric power grids and gas mains. Recently the Republic of Korea joined the UIC as a full member. I am grateful for Russia’s support in this.

In conclusion I would like to thank President Putin once again for the invitation to pay a state visit to Russia and express my gratitude to the Russian people for their warm reception. Thank you. Thank you for your attention.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57838
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old June 26th, 2018 #856
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Meeting with Head of Russian Direct Investment Fund Kirill Dmitriev



Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) CEO Kirill Dmitriev briefed the President on the fund’s efforts to attract foreign capital, in particular to infrastructure and technology.



June 18, 2018 - 14:10 - Novo-Ogaryovo, Moscow Region








Russian Direct Investment Fund CEO Kirill Dmitriev:

I would like to speak in brief about some professional projects. We have many projects underway, and many investors are involved in them.



President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Let us talk about it. We meet regularly to discuss these projects. As I see it, you want to speak about current matters.







Kirill Dmitriev:

Mr President, while working to implement your May executive orders and in light of a dramatic increase of investment in infrastructure and technology, we discussed the inflow of funds into these sectors with our partners. We see that they appreciate the current macroeconomic stability in Russia and believe that we can slightly increase our internal debt so as to invest this money in infrastructure. We believe that we will be able to attract over 7 trillion rubles from our partners/co-investors for them to invest in infrastructure and technology, to complement the 3 trillion rubles that will be invested via the Fund for development, as [First Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Anton] Siluanov said.

This investment will increase GDP by 2 percent a year, which we see as an impressive figure. We have analysed over 70 projects and have determined the spheres for investment, the amount of private funds we will need to attract and how much each of these projects will contribute to the growth of GDP. And now we want to attract our partners to these projects. This is the first thing.

The second thing is we are also increasing investment in technology. Together with our partners, we account for over 58 percent of total investment in technology in Russia. This month we had a meeting with Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud. Saudi Arabia has invested over $2 billion in various projects together with us. It also allows Russian companies to offer energy services and to work in other sectors of the Saudi economy as well.







Vladimir Putin:

As I understand, you and your partners are discussing another $2 billion worth of investment, that is, $2 billion worth of projects. Am I right in thinking that the overall investment amounts to $10 billion?



Kirill Dmitriev:

Yes, they have agreed to allocate $10 billion and have already invested $2 billion. We plan to co-invest another $2 billion in projects this year. Our Saudi partners invest 1.50 rubles per each ruble we provide.



Vladimir Putin:

Good.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57802






Greetings to participants in the gala concert timed to the 280th anniversary of the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet



Vladimir Putin sent a message of greetings to participants in the gala concert timed to the 280th anniversary of the Agrippina Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet.



June 19, 2018 - 19:00



The message reads, in part:

“This significant date is a big event in the public and cultural life of the country, a major landmark in domestic choreographic art. Established back in 1738, the Academy is rightfully considered one of the world’s oldest ballet schools with a rich history and great traditions.

You can be justifiably proud of your talented teachers and the brilliant constellation of graduates that have made a truly unique contribution to the development of Russian ballet. It is symbolic that the Academy celebrates its anniversary in the year of the 200th birth anniversary of Marius Petipa, an outstanding ballet master whose name and fruitful career embody a whole epoch in the Academy’s life.

It is gratifying that you have managed to preserve the intrinsic link of the times, the ideas and precepts of your predecessors and the atmosphere of spirituality and creativity. You continue to add to the glory of Russian ballet and give people the joy of genuine art.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57812






Meeting with Government members



The President held a regular meeting with Government members.



June 20, 2018 - 16:00 - The Kremlin, Moscow







The discussion covered current issues, in particular the effect of the situation in the fuel market on various branches of the Russian economy, the start of the summer tourist season, children’s summer recreation and spring flood relief.

Minister of Healthcare Veronika Skvortsova made the keynote speech on the availability and quality of medicines following the introduction of data analysis systems.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Good afternoon, colleagues.

Everyone is busy watching football, and taking pleasure in the performance of our athletes, football players. We wish them success in the remaining matches.

However, life goes on as usual. The working issues that face the Government have not gone anywhere. Therefore, today we will talk about the affordability and quality of medicines now that information and analytical systems have been introduced in this sphere.

Before we begin, let us review a few current issues, primarily, of course, the situation in the fuel and lubricant market.

Mr Artemyev, you have the floor.



Head of the Federal Antimonopoly Service Igor Artemyev:

Mr President, colleagues,

Recently, we have seen stable retail and wholesale prices, as well as declining stock index prices, which means that the stabilisation is becoming more solid. It is safe to say that in the short term these prices will increase within the confines of existing and growing inflation.

We believe that these, as well as future measures, and future prices are closely tied to the tax reform, which is a subject of a separate current discussion in the Government and at your level, Mr President. However, our goals in the negotiations with the oil companies in the wholesale sector have been achieved.

We noted a slight increase in prices of individual petroleum products by a fraction of a percentage point, which reflects the independent gas stations’ bid to improve their margins. We have responded to this. For example, we initiated a case in Crimea to curb attempts to charge monopolistically high prices, and we will see it to completion. We have issued warnings to eight oil companies. In other words, if someone is trying to act outside the law, we intervene and stop it.

In the end, to date, the Government’s goals and, accordingly, the timely reduction of excise taxes have led to the results that the people and the Government were looking for. The tax reform and subsequent actions depend on it.







Vladimir Putin:

Mr Kozak, are you aware of the proposals to make all oil-producing companies with a production license send certain amounts of oil to the refineries with subsequent mandatory sale on the domestic market? Have you heard such proposals?



Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Kozak:

Yes, we have and we agreed on it in principle. The volume of exchange trade and fuel supplies to the domestic market have increased significantly. As of two days ago, deliveries to the exchange increased by 45%, and the volume of exchange trade can be increased accordingly. This will also help stabilise prices.

This is not the issue. The oil companies are meeting their obligations. We agreed – I literally discussed this issue with you in a live broadcast – that if the agreements are not implemented, and if high oil prices on the global markets exert even more pressure… Even today, the oil industry loses one billion rubles every day in revenue from selling fuel and lubricants on the domestic market at our target price of 40 rubles per litre.



Vladimir Putin:

They are not losing anything, this is just a shortfall in revenue.



Dmitry Kozak:

Not losing, right, but this represents a loss of profit. In this economic situation, it is also very difficult to ask businesses to be altruistic, so we agreed that in case of a large disparity, we will offset it by temporarily increasing the oil export duty during periods of high prices.



Vladimir Putin:

That is clear, we discussed it. I am talking about something else now. Some have come up with a different mechanism, which is to make all those with licenses ship a portion of their oil (they even specified the number – 17.5 percent) to the refineries with an obligation to sell the products later on the domestic market. Did you have a chance to discuss this with them?



Dmitry Kozak:

We did. We have an agreement, and they comply with it. We can develop a binding legislative norm.



Vladimir Putin:

But so far, there has been no need to?



Dmitry Kozak:

Correct, there is no such norm.



Vladimir Putin:

Good.

Mr Patrushev, what about the prices of fuel and lubricants in agriculture?







Minister of Agriculture Dmitry Patrushev:

Mr President, one of the factors that influenced the preparation and implementation of the spring sowing campaign, was indeed the increase in the fuel and lubricant prices. Diesel fuel cost about 52,500 rubles per tonne on June 14. The rising prices of fuels and lubricants are also a risk for the preparation and timely conduct of harvesting and other autumn work, when agricultural producers’ spending on these usually doubles compared to the sowing campaign.

Thus, while during the sowing campaign, farms consumed 1.7 million tonnes of fuel and lubricants, the projected volume for harvesting and autumn fieldwork is 3.7 million tonnes. Since petroleum products account for about 10 percent of the total cost of production in agriculture, the price increase that occurred this year will entail a number of additional costs for agricultural producers, which may affect the price of their end produce.

In this regard, we propose working out a set of measures that will compensate agricultural producers for the losses they incurred as a result of the increase.



Vladimir Putin:

What kind of measures? Are you going to discuss this at the Government meeting?



Dmitry Patrushev:

Yes, we are going to discuss this.



Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev:

We will hold a special meeting, Mr President, to discuss this issue.



Vladimir Putin:

Fine.

Mr Ditrikh, what about airfare now that fuel prices are up? The high tourist season is already here.



Minister of Transport Yevgeny Ditrikh:

Yes, there are a number of issues. With your permission, I will provide a brief overview. Overall, air transport this year is expanding, with our citizens traveling both across the country and internationally. In some cases, we do not even have enough time to respond to all requests.

In 2017, 62.5 million passengers were transported. That is 18.5 percent more than in the previous period. This year, we have already achieved 12.5 percent growth in five months compared to the previous year. The growth continues.

We try to build on our transport capacity. We increased capacity on the main routes by 4 percent this year as compared to 2017: by 9 percent on international routes and by 7 percent on regional routes. We try to respond in a targeted way to the transport issues arising now.

I want to report that in the Far East, such questions are raised by the governors. Nordwind Airlines made available an additional two flights a week to Magadan beginning July 4. Yesterday, it also launched a direct regular Khabarovsk-Simferopol flight on a wide-body aircraft. Rossiya, Ural and Aeroflot airlines have joined this work. We are implementing two programmes to support domestic air transportation, including regional ones, and including air service to Crimea or central Russia.

With regard to airfare, of course, changes in prices of fuel, lubricants and jet fuel affect the industry. The Government is looking into this issue carefully. Prices have been stabilised currently.

In order to preclude ticket shortages and to stabilise prices, we are considering a number of support mechanisms. In particular, in conjunction with the Minister for the Far East, proposals have been made to expand subsidies for air service to the Far East. We will soon submit these proposals to the Government.







Vladimir Putin:

The average tourist package price to travel in Russia is half as much as going abroad. It is 41,000 rubles for Russia while it is 82,000 to go abroad. How has this holiday season begun?



Head of the Federal Agency for Tourism Oleg Safonov:

Mr President, colleagues,

The summer tourist season in the Russian Federation has begun successfully. Holidays have become more popular with Russians now. The total volume of air tickets sold for June to August has grown by 9 percent compared to last year, and by 18 percent on domestic flights.

Those who go abroad are safely protected. The total volume of reserve funds and personal liability in the framework of the Association of Outbound Tourism is over one billion roubles; in addition, tourist agencies have insurance worth more than 22 billion roubles. This is the highest level of financial guarantees provided for tourists in the history of Russian outbound tourism. Russians are provided with attractive tour options in Russia. Domestic trips account for over a half of all the tickets sold.

This season we are seeing an increased interest in family holidays: over 52 percent of purchases. Package tours across the Russian Federation are also popular. This competitive product includes accommodation, flights, meals and tours and allows savings of up to 30 percent compared with individual tours.

The geography of domestic trips is getting wider. This year, tours to Kamchatka, Sakhalin and the Kuril Islands are being sold.

As you mentioned, Mr President, the average trip in Russia costs half as much as going abroad: 41,000 rubles compared with the 82,000 needed to travel abroad. Anapa and Crimea are the most available seaside resorts this June: a weeklong holiday for two including a return flight from Moscow will cost about 20,000–22,000 roubles and 28,000 to Sochi. Prices are quite reasonable.

Crimea is becoming the most popular Russian resort area. As of June 1, over 1.5 million people have visited it since the beginning of this year, 26.5 percent more than last year.

Tourist numbers this year are expected to grow by 20 percent to over 6.5 million people due to the opening of the Crimean Bridge and the new air terminal in Simferopol. The number of beaches for the high season has increased to 431 which is 44 more than last year, 81 hotels and spas have been upgraded and renovated.

The opening of the bridge will facilitate a reduction in construction costs on the peninsula and in the prices of fuel, goods and services. We think that this will directly affect the costs of Crimean tourism and may subsequently cut the price of a holiday for consumers.

A single logistically connected beach cluster has been established in the south of Russia. Both Crimea’s and Krasnodar’s tourism and recreation facilities are becoming accessible to holiday makers. The growth of tourism in Crimea will also increase the number of tourists in Krasnodar Territory.

From May 1 through June 15, the number of tourists in Krasnodar Territory reached two million people, 17.8 percent more than last year. Hotels and tourist attractions were prepared, tourist areas were expanded and improved, beaches were cleaned and equipped, free Wi-Fi internet access was provided.

A project offering a free guest card for Krasnodar Territory’ spas was launched this summer. It is a single loyalty card that offers discounts for hotels, spas, cafes and restaurants, and various entertainment options, and the discounts are considerable – from 10 to 50 percent.

Thirty-two facilities providing accommodations offer all-inclusive deals on the Russian Black Sea coast in Anapa, Gelendzhik, Sochi, Tuapse area, with 20 such facilities located in Crimea.

The minimum rate of a holiday in Krasnodar Territory and Crimea with accommodation in private homes starts at 550 rubles a day per person.

The most popular regions among tourists are Moscow and Moscow Region, St Petersburg, Leningrad Region, the Republic of Karelia, Stavropol Territory, Rostov Region, Karachayevo-Circassia, and the Republic of Tatarstan. These regions lay emphasis on infrastructure preparation, improvement of streets and public places in the cities, cleaning, equipping beach areas, and compiling an event schedule.

The FIFA World Cup has kicked off successfully for many fans and tourists from various countries to enjoy. We note a growing interest in the host cities as tourist destinations. This is related to the active promotion campaign of their holiday and travel potential and the improved transport and tourism infrastructure, service and urban environment.

I would like to note that the World Cup legacy is already beginning to work. I would like to take Kaliningrad as an example. It will welcome 370,000 visitors from late May through June, which is 23 percent more than last year.

The decision of the Russian Government to introduce a 50 percent discount for children’s railway tickets for the entire year, including summer, was an important measure that has given a boost to domestic tourism. Before that, this discount was only provided from September 1 to May 31.

The range of children’s tours, including educational and career guidance tours, was expanded in time for the summer holidays. The growing demand for active tourism, such as environmental tours with visits to national parks, is noted.

Spa holidays at institutions of Russia’s health resort complex are also growing more popular. This is a very important trend in terms of public health, recreation and extending the lifespan of Russian citizens. The growing interest of young and middle-aged Russians in wellness tourism has become a popular trend lately.

The Federal Tourism Agency together with the Russian Academy of Sciences and scientific institutions has developed a system of voluntary classification of service quality at health resorts. It will further promote vacations at health resorts as well as the Russian health resort complex in the country and abroad. We have three categories – standard, business and premium – with ten health resorts having received certificates already: three in Stavropol Territory and seven in Altai Territory. This means that this summer Russian regions provide competitive offers for travel and holidays that fully meet the demands of our citizens.

Thank you for your attention. That concludes my report.







Vladimir Putin:

Mr Safonov mentioned children. Children’s holidays must be given priority during the tourist season. In this regard, I have a question for Ms Vasilyeva: how is children’s recreation organised? Over 6 million of our children are planning to go to different kinds of camps, health centres etc. Please, go ahead.



Minister of Education Olga Vasilyeva:

Mr President, colleagues,

The first month of our summer health and recreation campaign is coming to a close, and of course, our priorities remain to secure comprehensive safety, to increase the number of children staying in the camps, including children in difficult situations.

As you said, 6 million of our 15.7 million children will be able to have a holiday at 46,000 children’s camps in Russia.

I would like to mention that many positive things have happened in the past year, as the Ministry became the coordinator of this activity. First of all, each region has a registry of organisations offering services in children’s recreation and holidays. One cannot bid in a procurement tender without having three year of experience in this area, which is very important.

We have drafted a standard form of contract between the heads of every children’s recreational organisation and parents to clearly delineate the rights and responsibilities of each party.

We also proposed an initiative to enhance administrative responsibility for failure to provide information to the registry. Let me reiterate, every region has these registries.

Of the 6 million children you mentioned, 1.7 million are those in a difficult situation. This is 300,000 children more than last year.

Many of these remain at home (slightly over 30 percent of the children are currently at children’s holiday and recreational camps). We propose the following: to organise other forms of leisure activities such as local clubs, public sports events, military-athletic events and guided tours. And since we have done a lot to spread Quantoriums throughout the country, we have also introduced summer engineering holidays. Now those children who did not attend a Quantorium can spend special engineering shifts there.

I would also like to stress the following. This year 741,000 adults are working with our children; 404,000 of them are educators, 48,000 medical staff, and the key is that for the first time in recent years we have 86,000 camp councilors, half of them students who have taken a special training course in the basics of councilor activities. This course will be offered at 154 universities and colleges by September 1, 2018.

What challenges do we face? The most urgent problem is worn-out infrastructure. I said we have 46,000 camps this year, but this is 526 fewer than last year, and the reason for that is the same – decrepit infrastructure and the need to upgrade. This is probably the major problem facing the regions and the federal ministries.

Thank you.



Vladimir Putin:

Mr Zinichev, can I ask you to brief the meeting on security arrangements for children during the summer holidays?







Emergencies Minister Yevgeny Zinichev:

Mr President, the Emergencies Ministry continues its supervision and preventive measures even though summer holidays started about three weeks ago. As Ms Vasilyeva said, about 46,000 various children’s camps are under control. Of this total, 1,500 camps are located in or are close to forests, which we view as a threat.

In order to prevent any fire safety violations more than 500 legal entities and almost 1,500 executives faced administrative charges during this period. More than 6,000 violations of mandatory requirements were corrected in facilities of this kind.

Divisions within the State Inspectorate for Small Vessels issued more than 350 permits to open beaches in camps.

We pay special attention to children taking part in walking and river expeditions along tourist routes in remote areas. Territorial divisions of the Emergencies Ministry register these groups and monitor them for the entire duration of their journey to be able to provide the necessary assistance without delay.

Special duty stations staffed and equipped by the Federal Fire-Fighting Service were tasked with ensuring fire safety at summer camps in areas not covered by regular fire and rescue divisions.

More than 13,000 volunteer firefighting teams and squads were created by the National Volunteer Firefighting Society. They are staffed by children camps’ staff and equipped with firefighting equipment.

All children’s summer holiday destinations are expected to carry out a series of initiatives, including drills on communications with the administration, service staff and attendants in case of emergency, fire drills, briefings for personnel, teaching children to swim and water safety. These initiatives will be held during every camp session in order to reach most staff members and vacationers.

Mr President, there are a number of issues that deserve special attention. Let me highlight them.

Some children’s holiday institutions located outside cities are fire prone since most of them are built of wood, and are in need of major repairs or reconstruction.

Some buildings in children’s camps cannot be used as accommodation for children since there is no signal linking their fire alarms to fire departments. Ms Vasilyeva said that in some institutions obsolete alarm systems must be replaced by newer models.

Not all water bodies are equipped with special piers used by fire engines to collect water.

In light of the above, the concerned federal and regional executive bodies should take emergency measures to resolve the shortcomings that prevent effective monitoring of children’s health camps and, if and when necessary, consider measures to ensure safe recreation at the meetings of regional Emergencies Ministry commissions.

This concludes my report.



Vladimir Putin:

Do as you have suggested. Discuss these issues at regional commission meetings.

Mr Medvedev, I ask you to discuss this matter with the governors and the concerned agencies.



Dmitry Medvedev:

Of course, Mr President.







Vladimir Putin:

Mr Zinichev, I have one more question. How have you organised assistance to the victims of the spring floods?



Yevgeny Zinichev:

Here is what we have done. We received a request from the Acting head of Sakha (Yakutia) for the allocation of 328.7 million rubles from the Government’s Reserve Fund. This money has not been transferred to the Sakha Government so far.



Vladimir Putin:

It has not?



Yevgeny Zinichev:

The situation in Altai Territory: the required funds – 391.28 million rubles – have been transferred to the regional Finance Ministry. Volgograd Region: the funds have not been transferred.



Vladimir Putin:

Mr Siluanov, what can you say to that?



First Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Anton Siluanov:

Mr President, we have the necessary budgetary resources for clearing up the consequences of such emergencies. There is enough money in the budget, and it is allocated as soon as we receive the lists of the affected persons, which the regions must provide and the Emergencies Ministry must verify. We allocate the funds the day after we receive these lists.

I can confirm that flood relief allocations have been provided in full to Altai Territory. On June 18, we received a request from the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) for assistance to flood victims in some populated areas. We will consider this request immediately with the Emergencies Ministry.



Vladimir Putin:

Do not take too long. There is also Volgograd Region. This must be done with the regional authorities, and done quickly. There must be no red tape, because people need our assistance. They do not know who is responsible for the delays and other problems.

Mr Zinichev, a great deal depends on how you and your department work. You must organise this work properly, including with the regional authorities.

I ask the Executive Office to plan a special report after this work is completed.

Let us now address the main issue on our agenda.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57815






Meeting with permanent members of Security Council



Vladimir Putin held a meeting with permanent members of the Security Council.



June 21, 2018 - 15:15 - Novo-Ogaryovo, Moscow Region







The President informed the meeting participants about his telephone conversation with President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko, which took place earlier in the day. The council members exchanged opinions on the current status of Russian-Ukrainian relations and the settlement in southeastern Ukraine.
















In addition, the participants discussed current domestic socioeconomic issues.













Attending the meeting were Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko, Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Anton Vaino, Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev, 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.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57824






Meeting with Russian Olympic Committee Head Stanislav Pozdnyakov



Vladimir Putin held a working meeting with President of the Russian Olympic Committee Stanislav Pozdnyakov.



June 21, 2018 - 19:20 - Novo-Ogaryovo, Moscow Region







Vladimir Putin and Stanislav Pozdnyakov discussed various aspects of the organisation’s activities and the current situation in Russian sports.

Stanislav Pozdnyakov was elected head of the Russian Olympic Committee in May 2018.




President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Pozdnyakov, first of all, I would like to congratulate you on your election to such a prominent and important position – President of the Russian Olympic Committee. I wish you every success.

In recent years, much has been accomplished in Russian sports. We have achieved major outstanding results and victories, which is evident from the ongoing FIFA World Cup and our previous achievements.

However, there are many challenges in Russian sports as well. I strongly hope that your expertise and your sports background will make it possible for us to take the next steps in organising Russian sports. To do so, it is imperative to work with the federations, the Ministry of Sport, the Government, nonprofit organisations and the public in the broadest sense of the word, as well as with the media and, of course, our colleagues from foreign countries, including the International Olympic Committee.







President of the Russian Olympic Committee Stanislav Pozdnyakov:

Thank you very much, Mr President, for your congratulations. It is a great honor for me to lead the Russian Olympic Committee. As someone who has devoted his entire life to sports, in various ways, I saw notable success in this sector, and would like to thank you personally for the systematic and attentive approach to promoting sports.

And one more thing: I would like to congratulate you and all Russian people, all fans, on the successful start of the World Cup – the event itself and the two wins of our national football team.



Vladimir Putin:

Now we have results in other areas as well.







Stanislav Pozdnyakov:

Yes, we have things to be proud of. The European Fencing Championships finish today, with six out of the 12 gold medals won by our athletes.

Of course, this is a credit to all of us, to the systematic training of our teams. I am ready to use one of the models I used in my previous job, while training our fencers, in my work at the Russian Olympic Committee.

Of course, as you have noted, the Olympic Committee’s international activities are a priority of ours. In this sense, the Committee serves as an institute of sport diplomacy. After the Russian Olympic Committee’s rights were reinstated at the end of February, or main task is of course to win back the trust of our international partners in the Olympic Committee itself and the activities we are engaged in.

Now we are preparing a number of proposals for the International Olympic Committee department – the Olympic Solidarity Commission – with a package of events that we are ready to implement in Russia jointly with the International Olympic Committee.

Preparations for the Olympic Games are the second important issue: Tokyo-2020 it is not as far off as it seems. Of course, we should work on this consistently, as a team, with the Sports Ministry and other agencies, and not forget that, although the Winter Olympics were held in Pyeongchang this year, the next Winter Olympics will take place in Beijing in four years. And, of course, we need to consider how we prepare for the Olympics in Beijing now.

In other words, we have many important tasks that, of course, will require your support and, as I mentioned, your attention to this area – sports.



Vladimir Putin:

We will get to work. I wish you success.



Stanislav Pozdnyakov:

Thank you.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57826






Vladimir Putin laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on the Day of Memory and Sorrow



On the 77th anniversary of the beginning of the Great Patriotic War, Vladimir Putin laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by the Kremlin wall to commemorate the war dead.



June 22, 2018 - 12:15 - Alexander Garden, Moscow







Taking part in the ceremony to pay tribute to the memory of those who fell defending their homeland were Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko, State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Anton Vaino, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, Supreme Court President Vyacheslav Lebedev, Constitutional Court Chairman Valery Zorkin, Prosecutor General Yury Chaika, members of the Government and Parliament, senior officials of the Russian Armed Forces and representatives of veterans organisations.



















The ceremony was followed by a march by troops representing the three branches of the armed forces: the Army, the Aerospace Forces and the Navy.
















The President also laid flowers at the memorial plaques honouring the hero cities and cities of military glory.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57827






Nikolai Patrushev appointed Secretary of the Security Council



The President signed Executive Order On the Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation.



June 22, 2018 - 13:00




Vladimir Putin signed an Executive Order appointing Nikolai Patrushev Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57828






Address to Russian school leavers



June 23, 2018 - 18:00








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Dear friends,

I am happy to greet you all and sincerely congratulate all Russian school leavers on the completion of their studies.

Today is one of the most remarkable and memorable days in your lives – a good, touching, exciting and also a sad day because you are parting with your dear old schools, while ahead of you is the beginning of a new major stage in your lives and anticipation of turbulent and interesting changes.

It is time for you to set meaningful, truly adult goals. I have no doubt that you are ready for this, and that your schools have equipped with everything you need for the future.

The energy of change and challenges are always inspiring; they help us to achieve bright, dizzying victories in further studies and profession, in science, art and sports.

I am confident that you will be able to attain your wildest dreams and conquer the highest peaks.

You quickly master new technologies, you already know a lot and know how to do things – take your rightful credit for that. Still, be appreciative and sincerely grateful to your parents, teachers, and mentors for their work, wisdom and patience.

We all believe in you, respect your views on life, your hobbies, even though they are so different from ours, and your choice of path in life.

Such people – daring, free, resolute, independent and responsible – will certainly be able to transform our country, to make a real breakthrough, surprise the world with new records and discoveries.

We will make every effort to make Russia a country of opportunities for you, so that each of you will achieve personal success – in business, in science, in the professional work, in volunteer, public or political activities. All roads should be open to you.

For us, you will be reliable partners in our massive work to build Russia’s future. Do not just limit yourself to ‘likes’ on social networks. Act, acquire new knowledge, just go for it!

Once again, I congratulate you on your graduation.

Good luck to you. Happiness, love and great success.

You can do it!




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57839






Greetings to participants of Graduate-2018 reception in the Kremlin



Vladimir Putin sent greetings to the participants of the Graduate-2018 ceremony being held in the Kremlin.



June 23, 2018 - 20:00



The message reads, in part:

“Graduation is an important event for every young person. Your last school bell rang, your exams are over, and you have new and ambitious goals ahead, the choice of your life journey and professional career.

I am sure that you will remember with special warmth your wonderful school years, true friends and certainly your favourite teachers who opened up to you a huge world of knowledge, being genuinely happy for your successes, supporting you in difficult times, helping with both wise counsel and action, standing by you at all times.

I sincerely wish that your plans and dreams come true, that you use all your talents and take opportunities, and serve your Fatherland with honour.

I wish you every success in all your endeavours.

Good luck!”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57841
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old July 2nd, 2018 #857
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Congratulations to Recep Tayyip Erdogan on his reelection as President of Turkey



Vladimir Putin sent a message of greetings to Recep Tayyip Erdogan on his reelection as President of the Republic of Turkey, and the Justice and Development Party’s victory in the latest elections.



June 25, 2018 - 10:20



The President of Russia said the results of the vote fully confirm Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s political weight and the wide support of the policy pursued under his leadership to address the urgent social and economic challenges facing Turkey and to strengthen the country's foreign policy positions.

Vladimir Putin noted with satisfaction the progressive development of Russian-Turkish partner relations that have confidently reached a strategic level in certain areas. The Russian President reaffirmed his readiness to continue the substantive dialogue and close cooperation on the bilateral, regional and international agenda, stressing that this undoubtedly meets the fundamental interests of the peoples of Russia and Turkey, and the goals of ensuring peace, stability and security on the Eurasian continent.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57842






Telephone conversation with President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan



Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan.



June 25, 2018 - 15:30



Vladimir Putin congratulated the Turkish President on winning the June 24 presidential election and wished him success in further state administration.

The presidents confirmed their mutual interest in expanding partnership between the two countries and noted as priorities joint strategic energy projects, including the construction of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant and the TurkStream pipeline.

President Putin and President Erdogan agreed to maintain close cooperation in the Syrian conflict resolution.

Earlier, Vladimir Putin sent a message congratulating Recep Tayyip Erdogan on his re-election as the President of the Turkish Republic and the victory of the Justice and Development Party in the parliamentary election.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57845






Meeting with Assistant to the US President for National Security Affairs John Bolton



Vladimir Putin received Assistant to the President of the United States for National Security Affairs John Bolton in the Kremlin.



June 27, 2018 - 15:30 - The Kremlin, Moscow







Russian participants at the meeting included Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

The discussion focused on the prospects for developing Russian-US relations, disarmament, the Syria and Ukraine crises, and the situation on the Korean Peninsula.

In addition, an agreement was reached on a meeting between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. The time and venue of the summit will be announced later.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Bolton, colleagues, I warmly welcome you to Moscow.

To begin with, I regret to have to point out that Russian-US relations are not at their best. I have mentioned this publicly more than once, and I want to say it again at this meeting as well.







I believe that this is largely due to sharp domestic political strife in the United States, but your visit to Moscow gives us hope that we can make at least the first steps towards restoring full-fledged relations between our states. Russia has never sought confrontation.







I hope that today we can discuss what could be done on both sides to restore full-fledged relations based on equality and respect for each other's interests.

I want to congratulate you on the United States obtaining the right to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. So far, we have been able to run this event properly. We will be glad to share our experience with you.

Welcome.







Assistant to the President of the United States for National Security Affairs John Bolton:

Thank you very much, Mr President.

We appreciate your taking the time to receive us today. It is great to be back in Moscow. I very much look forward to discussing with you, as I have had the opportunity to do with your colleagues, how to improve Russian-US relations, find areas where we can agree and make progress together.







Even in earlier days, when our countries had differences and our leaders and their advisors met and I think that was good for both countries, good for stability in the world. President Trump feels very strongly on that subject.

So again, we are most appreciative of your courtesy and graciousness here and I look forward to learning how you handled the World Cup so successfully, among other things.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57866






Greetings on the opening of the 7th Russian-Armenian Inter-Regional Forum



Vladimir Putin sent a message of greetings to the participants and guests of the 7th Russian-Armenian Inter-Regional Forum.



June 29, 2018 - 10:00



The message reads, in part:

“Your annual meetings have become a good tradition, offering a platform to national and local government officials, politicians, public figures, entrepreneurs, researchers and experts from the two countries for exchanging best practices and engaging in constructive debates on topical bilateral matters.

Russia and Armenia are united by solid bonds of friendship and strategic partnership. Our two countries established meaningful political dialogue at various levels, and are proactive in promoting trade, economic, scientific and technical, as well as humanitarian cooperation.

Inter-regional cooperation makes an important contribution to strengthening Russian-Armenian relations by facilitating multiple joint projects in infrastructure, social development, culture, sports and other fields.

I am confident that you will come up with new inspiring ideas and proposals at the forum with a view to further stepping up partnership ties between Russia and Armenia, and promoting mutually beneficial integration processes in Eurasia.”

The 7th Russian-Armenian Inter-Regional Forum opened on June 29 in Yerevan.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57902






Telephone conversation with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko



Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko.



June 29, 2018 - 11:10



Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko discussed topical matters on the bilateral agenda, following up on the agreements reached at the June 19, 2018 meeting of the Supreme State Council of the Union State of Russia and Belarus in Minsk.

The two presidents also discussed the schedule of future contacts.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57895






Telephone conversation with President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov



Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov.



June 29, 2018 - 12:50



Vladimir Putin offered happy birthday greetings to Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and wished him further success in his office.

The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further stepping up bilateral cooperation in various areas.

In addition to this, earlier that day Vladimir Putin sent Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov a congratulatory message, which reads, in part:

“Russia values highly your efforts to strengthen the strategic partnership between our countries and promote mutually beneficial cooperation across the board.

I hold warm memories of our last year’s meeting in Ashgabat, where we had meaningful and fruitful talks. I hope that the constructive dialogue with you and joint efforts to expand bilateral ties will carry on alongside initiatives to ensure stability and security in Central Asia and the Caspian region.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57901
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old July 2nd, 2018 #858
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Greetings to Olympic boxing champion Boris Lagutin



Vladimir Putin extended his greetings to Olympic boxing champion and Merited Master of Sports of the USSR Boris Lagutin on his 80th birthday.



June 24, 2018 - 11:00







The message reads, in part:

“Boxing fans and those striving to succeed in this spectacular sport know your name very well. Throughout your triumphant career, you scored numerous outstanding and unforgettable victories at top-level competitions, and twice you became an Olympic champion.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57859






Meeting with Kemerovo Region Acting Governor Sergei Tsivilev



Vladimir Putin had a working meeting with Acting Governor of Kemerovo Region Sergei Tsivilev to discuss the main socioeconomic matters of the region and optimal solutions.



June 25, 2018 - 13:50 - The Kremlin, Moscow







Sergei Tsivilev, who was appointed Acting Governor of Kemerovo Region on April 1, spoke about the priority objectives for the region. They include raising wages by 30 percent, extending life expectancy by two years and increasing the GRP by 30 percent in 2018–2019, as well as increasing the share of small and medium-sized businesses from 15 percent to 21 percent. Another task is to reduce crime by at least one-third and unemployment from 7.5 percent to the average national level of 5.2 percent.







The acting governor also addressed the President with requests concerning the improvement of the airport in Kemerovo, completing a hospital in Mezhdurechensk, the elimination of TB, upgrading school buses and building a cultural centre of Siberia in Kuzbass. The cultural cluster will comprise the Kemerovo Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre, a virtual cinema and a centre for gifted children.







The President promised to help with the requests and noted that the issues will be tackled, particularly, under the existing state programmes. He also recommended using projects of similar centres to be set up in Vladivostok, Sevastopol and several other cities as the basis for the cultural centre.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57843






Irina Barakat granted Russian citizenship



Vladimir Putin signed an Executive Order granting Russian citizenship.



June 25, 2018 - 16:20



In accordance with Article 89, Section A of the Constitution of the Russian Federation, President Vladimir Putin signed an Executive Order granting Russian citizenship to Irina Barakat, born on September 29, 1980, in Ukraine.



During the Direct Line broadcast in June, military interpreter Irina Barakat asked Vladimir Putin to grant her Russian citizenship. Irina Barakat is recovering from a serious injury she received in Aleppo, Syria. Russian citizenship will help here receive medical aid in full and also invite her family, which remains in Syria, to Russia.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57846






Meeting with Head of the Federal Taxation Service Mikhail Mishustin



Vladimir Putin had a working meeting with Head of the Federal Taxation Service Mikhail Mishustin. The official briefed the President on tax collectability, the results of measures to eliminate dummy companies from the company register and plans to improve registration of self-employed individuals with the tax authority.



June 26, 2018 - 13:30 - Novo-Ogaryovo, Moscow Region








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Let us begin with tax collectability. This is my regular question. I know you also have some suggestions and ideas. We will discuss them as well.



Head of the Federal Taxation Service Mikhail Mishustin:

Mr President, the general rate remained quite good between January and May 2018 at all budget levels. The consolidated tax revenue is one trillion rubles higher than over the same period last year, at 8.3 trillion. The amount of taxes paid to the federal budget has increased by 18.9 percent, or 4.4 trillion.

Therefore, if we speak about specific taxes, it is good to see that the oil and gas tax revenue continues to grow and has gone up by 10 percent. Of course, the tax on extractable resources ensured a significant increase, which is 29.5 percent, due to the rising oil prices. But the non-oil taxes are growing.

Revenue from the income tax has increased by 12.5 percent. It is good to see that this is due in particular to business activity and the profit growth rate of successful companies, which was over three percent in the first quarter.

For value-added tax, collectability has been growing for the past five years without fail. The rate is 14 percent despite the fact that the companies that commissioned large projects received significant tax rebates. But the automated VAT refund monitoring system allows us to monitor VAT collectability across entire groups of companies that must pay value-added tax to the state, with great precision.

The collection of personal income tax has increased by 12.9 percent, while wages have increased by an average of 12.1 percent. We have recorded an increase of 13.1 percent in the collection of insurance payments to three funds: the Pension Fund, the Social Insurance Fund and the Mandatory Medical Insurance Fund. We have streamlined interaction between the Tax Service and the Pension Fund. As for business, we have simplified tax reporting and reporting to the funds. We hope that the legalisation of wages will enhance the efficiency of the collection of taxes to the extra-budgetary fund.

Also, I would like to tell you about an important figure we have reported, which concerns a reduction in the number of ‘dummy’ firms. Starting in 2016, we have been working with law enforcement agencies to get rid of companies that engaged in so-called aggressive tax planning from the corporate register. We are also taking serious preventive measures to get such companies from using aggressive tax planning schemes. There is a fivefold reduction. Back in 2016, we reported the existence of some 1.649 million ‘dummy’ companies, or some 34.2 percent of the total number of all legal entities operating in Russia.







Vladimir Putin:

More than one-third of the total?



Mikhail Mishustin:

Yes, that was the figure. As of this moment, there are 309,450 such companies on the corporate register, or some 7.3 percent of the total. This shows that our economy is getting rid of dishonest taxpayers who do not pay taxes and use aggressive tax schemes.







Vladimir Putin:

Is this the result of the new methods you have mentioned?



Mikhail Mishustin:

Exactly. We have devised a package of measures jointly with the law enforcement agencies, the Central Bank and Rosfinmonitoring [the Federal Financial Monitoring Service]. The key measure concerns the removal of such companies from the corporate register. We amended the legislation in 2016, which allowed us to remove over 1.3 million such non-operating firms from the register.

I would also like to report on the implementation of your instructions, which you also mentioned in your executive order, on the establishment of a special mechanism for the self-employed. As you said, it must be a convenient system of interface between the people and the tax service, so that people only need to register and subsequently fulfil their obligations to the country in a one-click process.

For example, we have created a prototype mobile app so that people would be able to register with the tax authorities without having to go to tax offices and to pay taxes without compiling tax reports or submitting all manner of background information and various documents.

We also believe that the yearend insurance payments by the self-employed can be included in the tax. Mr Siluanov [First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance] has issued instructions to this effect, and a draft law will be eventually submitted to the State Duma.

I would like to ask you to approve the use as a pilot scheme, of this technology in four regions – Moscow, Moscow Region, Kaluga Region and the Republic of Tatarstan – just as we did in the case of online cash registers before their introduction throughout the country.

We believe that we could launch a six-month trial period of this technology on January 1, 2019, and if you approve of the idea and the performance of this technology, we will be able to introduce it throughout the country so that it will be easier for people to fulfil their obligations without submitting specialised reports.







Vladimir Putin:

Let us do this.



Mikhail Mishustin:

Thank you.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57848






The President signed executive orders on presidential plenipotentiary envoys to federal districts



Vladimir Putin signed several executive orders on presidential plenipotentiary envoys to federal districts.



June 26, 2018 - 14:20



The executive orders release Oleg Belaventsev from his duties as Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the North Caucasus Federal District and Igor Kholmanskikh from his duties as Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Urals Federal District.

The President appointed the following presidential plenipotentiary envoys:




Igor Shchegolev to the Central Federal District;




Alexander Beglov to the Northwestern Federal District;




Vladimir Ustinov to the Southern Federal District;




Alexander Matovnikov to the North Caucasus Federal District;




Nikolai Tsukanov to the Urals Federal District;




Sergei Menyailo to the Siberian Federal District.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57861






Greetings to Terra Scientia on Klyazma River National Educational Youth Forum



Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to the Terra Scientia on Klyazma River National Educational Youth Forum.



June 27, 2018 - 10:00



The message reads, in part:

“It is very good that your forum has achieved broad popularity over the past years and that its programme has been complemented with new interesting ideas, concepts and initiatives. Energetic, creative and inspired young people from across Russia have met again in the ancient Vladimir land.

Students, young researchers, teachers and social activists attending the forum will be able to assert themselves here, demonstrate their professional potential, find new associates and like-minded people, and discuss possible joint plans and projects in various spheres.

I am confident that the forum’s rich agenda and the excellent conditions created here for business and friendly communication can lead to the development of ambitious, truly innovative solutions, which will be implemented in the future.”

The Terra Scientia on Klyazma River National Educational Youth Forum was first held in the Vladimir Region in 2015 for young people aged 18 to 30 from Russia and other countries. In 2018, some 6,000 people will attend the forum’s six themed sessions to be held between June 27 and August 12.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57865






Presentation of state decorations



The traditional ceremony to present state decorations of the Russian Federation was held at Kremlin’s St Catherine Hall. The President presented orders, distinctions and honorary titles to more than thirty Russians for their outstanding achievements in research, culture, education, medicine, agriculture and manufacturing.



June 27, 2018 - 14:00 - The Kremlin, Moscow







Vladimir Putin presented the Order for Services to the Fatherland, I degree, to a number of recipients, including Vladimir Etush. First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee for Physical Education and Sport Vyacheslav Fetisov received the Order for Services to the Fatherland, II degree; Order for Services to the Fatherland, III degree, was presented to President of the Russian Tennis Federation Shamil Tarpishchev; and Order for Services to the Fatherland, IV degree, was bestowed upon Head of the A Just Russia party faction in the State Duma Sergei Mironov.

The Order of Courage was presented to test pilot Dmitry Komarov; Aeroflot CEO Vitaly Savelyev received the Order of Alexander Nevsky. Explorer Fedor Konyukhov and pianist Denis Matsuev were awarded the Order of Honour. Artistic Director of the Moscow Gubernsky (Provincial) Theatre Sergei Bezrukov received the Order of Friendship. First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Culture Iosif Kobzon was awarded For Beneficence distinctive mark.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Good afternoon, friends,







It gives me sincere pleasure to be presenting Russia’s highest decorations here at the Kremlin to the most talented and deserving citizens of our country.







Each and every one of you has achieved outstanding results in your fields. Your accomplishments, victories, records, courage and labour all contribute to Russia’s development in meaningful ways. Of course, there is also a moral dimension to these efforts.










You serve as examples of hard work, brave pursuits, commitment and of course have a sense of responsibility for the future of our country and a commitment to do as much as possible in order to achieve breakthroughs and new heights, and change life for the better.







Those who have received awards today include well-known public figures and less well known persons. However, you are all united by the fact that you have been able to fulfil your talents and achieve dreams, while also benefiting your Fatherland.

Yury Bugakov and Vladimir Etush have become full cavaliers of the Order for Services to the Fatherland.







Yury Bugakov dedicated almost 50 years to agriculture. For many years, he has been at the helm of a major Siberian agro-industrial complex that has maintained its leadership regardless of the prevailing economic system.

It is thanks to progressive, smart, assiduous and caring managers of this kind that the Russian agro-industrial complex has been developing.







Theatre plays with Vladimir Etush, a brilliant and audacious actor, have become an inherent part of Russian culture. He literally conquered the hearts of millions with his acting talent.







Dedication and a sense of purpose are essential for any activity. Still, there are professions that require courage and being ready to risk your own life. Dmitry Komarov tested a number of Il series aircraft, and has overcome a number of challenging and emergency situations while in the air, helping identify shortcomings as well as helping to improve the safety of aircraft. For that, he is awarded the Order of Courage.







Anatoly Ivanishin took part in lengthy space expeditions and in a number of research projects. We value highly the services of cosmonaut researchers, and in general the contribution of the Yury Gagarin Centre to upholding Russia’s leadership in exploring near-Earth space.







World-famous scholars are known for seeking to go beyond the horizons of the ordinary and expand the frontiers of knowledge. There is no doubt that Viktor Matveyev, director of the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, belongs to researchers of this kind. He specialises in elementary particle physics.

Viktor Matveyev has been paying special attention to the promotion of international cooperation in this field. In this connection, let me emphasise that fundamental research and mega-science projects will definitely continue to be supported.







This provides a foundation for a scientific and technological breakthrough we need to achieve in order to develop the country and improve the lives of our citizens.







Medicine is becoming an increasingly science-based sector that depends on the introduction of the latest methods of prevention, diagnostics and treatment. This is one of the main elements in the work of Viktoria Dvornichenko, chief physician at the Irkutsk Regional Cancer Centre.







The technology for treating cardiac arrhythmia developed by Academician Amiran Revishvili is used around the world.










Vyacheslav Fetisov and Sergei Mironov will receive state decorations for their active involvement in the life of society and politics.







One of my colleagues in the State Duma and a legendary person whom we love dearly is Iosif Kobzon. He has been awarded the distinctive mark For Beneficence. Iosif Kobzon generously shares his talent and offers people his care and support, which come from his heart.










Culture and the arts are a universal language that brings together generations and nations. When people of the arts add charity projects to their work, this greatly increases the enlightening role of culture. This is how Sergei Bezrukov and Denis Matsuev see their mission.
















Our country is hosting the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and it is symbolic that decorations will be presented today to those who made the development of sports their life’s work: Shamil Tarpishchev, Vladimir Chagin, Ivan Dusharin and Oleg Matytsin.










Friends, there are representatives of widely different trades and professions in this room, and the life of each of them is proof that people can soar to new heights when they find their calling in life, and that there is nothing impossible when the road to your goal is lit up with love for your country.







Congratulations on receiving these high state decorations.






<…>






Vladimir Putin:

Friends, I would like to congratulate all the recipients once again.










Present are people from many different kinds of professions and a whole range of ages. You have come here from various regions of Russia.

Here is Denis Matsuev. I have exchanged a few words with him. He made a beautiful metaphor by comparing our team with a symphony orchestra. I think we can compare our whole country with a symphony orchestra.










Every person has their own role and field of activities. Each area has a talented, beautiful and inimitable sound, all the more so if it has such wonderful soloists as you.







I congratulate you on your success.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57864






Visit to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Football Park on Red Square



Vladimir Putin and FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Football Park on Moscow’s Red Square.



June 28, 2018 - 13:20 - Moscow







The President of Russia and the FIFA President looked around the sports and entertainment sections of the park and visited the pavilion that houses the World Cup, the main trophy awarded to the winners of the FIFA World Cup.



















Vladimir Putin and Gianni Infantino also opened a friendly match of football stars, including goalkeeper Iker Casillas and defender Carles Puyol from the Spanish team, which won the 2010 World Cup, and former Russian players Alexei Smertin and Dmitry Bulykin, against young players from FC Totem, including children from an orphanage in Krasnoyarsk.






















The coaches of the mixed teams were Ronaldo (Brazil, 1994 and 2002 world champion) and Lothar Matthaeus (Germany, 1990 world champion).



















The traveling park of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia, which has toured the cup host cities, reached Moscow on June 21 and will be open to the public until the end of the World Cup. The programme includes workshops, autograph sessions with Russian and foreign football stars and open-air games. Fans will be able to take part in multimedia quizzes and try their hand at football attractions.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57891






Reception in honour of graduates of military academies



A reception was held at the Grand Kremlin Palace in honour of graduates of military academies of the Defence Ministry, Emergency Situations Ministry, Federal Security Service, Federal Guard Service and National Guard of Russia, and higher education institutions of the Interior Ministry and the Federal Penitentiary Service.



June 28, 2018 - 13:40 - The Kremlin, Moscow








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Comrade officers, friends,

I would like to extend my wholehearted greetings and congratulate you on completing your studies.

In keeping with tradition, as we honour the best graduates of military academies and universities, we come to the reception halls of the Moscow Kremlin, which stand witness to the greatest moments in the history of Russia and are filled with symbols of military glory and pride.







I strongly believe that at this moment each and every one of you is aware of the unbreakable bond that transcends time and generations. All of you realise that you have been trusted with the highest honour as soldiers and officers of perpetuating what other sons and daughters of the Fatherland and heroes did when they stood up for the freedom and independence of their homeland, and protected peace and security for our people.

At all times and throughout centuries, the Russian officers’ corps served its Fatherland faithfully, while Russian commanders were always known for their ironclad will and courage, professionalism and respect for their subordinates, and readiness to sacrifice themselves for the Fatherland and their comrades-in-arms. Continuity of these great traditions provides the Russian army and navy a spiritual and moral foundation, underpinning its strength and firmness for the current and future generations of Russian officers.







Comrades, over the past years a great deal has been done to develop the Russian Armed Forces. The Russian Army demonstrated its increased potential and coordination when it fought terrorists in Syria. It is now up to you and your comrades-in-arms to make full use of this operation in your military training.

As you know, we started the withdrawal of our forces during my visit to Khmeimim. The withdrawal carries on as we speak: 13 aircraft, 14 helicopters, and 1,140 personnel were withdrawn over the past few days. All these people were tested in combat. You and your comrades-in-arms will have to make full use of this experience when training personnel in Russia in order to master the most challenging and unconventional skills that will be tested during snap inspections, strategic and tactical exercises, and learn to use cutting-edge new generation armaments that are being supplied to the Army.

We have achieved a decisive breakthrough in this field, and it would not be an exaggeration to say that it required an outstanding effort from our researchers, engineers and manufacturers. This was a true feat by the workers, engineers and researchers. Just as so many times in our history, they have succeeded in what others were unable to achieve.







Six years ago, the share of modern weapons and equipment used by the Russian army and navy did not exceed 16 percent, but now this indicator is approaching 60 percent. If we keep up this momentum, the target threshold of 70 percent will have been reached by 2021.

A number of Russian weapons’ systems are years, if not decades ahead of similar foreign products. For instance, an experiment to deploy the latest Kinzhal air-launched missiles in the Southern Federal District is underway. Avangard intercontinental missile systems will be delivered to the army in the near future, and Sarmat ICBMs will follow within one year. This is only part of the modern armaments that are expected to improve Russia’s potential several fold.

You will soon take up your duties in the army. Your goal is to become true military professionals, and in order to do so you need to master management tactics and the latest equipment, be competent when managing personnel, and be always up to the standard set during the years of your studies. You have to be the best, serving as a role model for your comrades-in-arms and subordinates. I strongly believe that you are ready to deliver on this vision.







I would also like to take this opportunity to extend my greetings to the officers who are about to join law enforcement agencies and security services.

You will be facing a very broad range of tasks, including protecting citizens’ rights and freedoms, and waging a merciless war on terrorism and extremism, organised crime and corruption. I hope that you will demonstrate your best professional and personal qualities by adopting a responsible and principled attitude while strictly abiding by the letter and spirit of the law.

Comrades,

I want to emphasise that the state will expand the social safety net for the service members, officers and their families.

The amount of service pay has been adjusted since January 1. This practice will, of course, continue.

There is a programme to provide service members with permanent housing. This year, over 4,000 families moved into new flats, and almost 14,500 keys to service housing were issued.







Medical services are improving. An important issue for officers' families such as enrolling children in kindergartens and nurseries is being addressed. This year, it is planned to more than quadruple the number of free military sanatoriums for children of military members.

To reiterate, the work to improve social safety net will definitely continue.

Friends, in closing, I would like to quote legendary Air Force Marshal Alexander Pokryshkin, who said that ”the most important and most sacred thing is our duty to the Motherland.“ I am confident that Russian officers will show impeccable performance and reliably protect the security of our Motherland and citizens.







Once again, I congratulate you on the occasion of completing your studies. I wish happiness and good health to you, your families and friends. I wish you and all 2018 graduates successful service.

I propose a toast for the continuation of the best traditions of the Russian officer corps, for our Armed Forces and Russia.







Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu:

Comrade Supreme Commander-in-Chief, comrade officers,

Here, in the Grand Kremlin Palace, we now have the top graduates of military universities, recipients of gold medals, scholarship holders and honours students – those who have the honour to represent a new detachment of the officer corps. At all times, it has been the core of the Armed Forces, the backbone of state power, and the guarantor of the country's independence and peaceful life.

Today, it is hard to imagine an officer without a fundamental systemic training, general culture and high moral qualities. Moreover, officers must constantly improve the knowledge and skills received at the university, and persistently look for new forms of personnel training. It is not accidental that the outstanding military leaders were well-rounded people, talented educators and skilful psychologists who knew how to find a path to the soldier's hearts.







Comrades, I am confident that you, as heirs of our military glory, will bear with honour the honourable title of defenders of the Fatherland and will always abide by the officer’s code of honour. One of its precepts says, “Give your soul to God, your heart to a woman, your duty to the Fatherland, and your honour to no one.”







Please accept my best wishes on the conclusion of an important period in your professional development. Be strong in spirit, show initiative and strive for success. The national leadership and the Defence Ministry count on you.

Let us drink to the power and prosperity of our great Motherland and its loyal allies: the Army and Navy, for President and Supreme Commander-in-Chief of Russia Vladimir Putin, to the heath and prosperity of those present!







Graduate of the Military Academy of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Russia Major General Alexander Maksimtsev:

Comrade Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Federation, comrade officers,

Today we have graduated from military academies and universities and entered a new period in our lives, the period of serving our Motherland.







During our studies, we acquired practical skills that will help us protect national security and defend the state and its interests against any armed threats and challenges. We are deeply aware of this great responsibility for the Motherland and are ready to do our military duty to the best of our abilities.







Let us express our gratitude to our teachers and mentors, who have shared their rich life and combat experience and their thorough knowledge of the military art with us. Thank you.

Comrade Supreme Commander-in-Chief,

Allow me to express our gratitude to you and to the leaders of the country and the Defence Ministry for your unflagging attention to the Armed Forces, for supplying the latest weapons and hardware to the troops and for enhancing the prestige of military service and patriotic education of the young people.







I assure you on behalf of all of us that we will fulfil all the tasks of ensuring national security, which you have set to us.

Let us drink to the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, to Russia, and to its glorious Armed Forces and the unconquerable Russian soldier!




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57892






Meeting with Minister of Agriculture Dmitry Patrushev



Vladimir Putin met with Minister of Agriculture Dmitry Patrushev to review the sowing and harvesting campaigns.



June 29, 2018 - 16:30 - The Kremlin, Moscow







The Minister said the sowing campaign has almost been completed. As of June 27, the area under spring crops totaled about 52 million hectares or 97 percent of the forecast. Harvesting is taking place in the south. As of June 27, 4.4 million tonnes of grain have already been processed but the crop yield is a bit less than last year due to drought. Nonetheless, 100 million tonnes of grain are expected to be harvested.

Mr Patrushev noted that last year’s record harvest of 135.4 million tonnes has resulted in fairly serious influence on grain prices. Prices of class four wheat have dropped by almost 20 percent – from 8,400 roubles per tonne to 6,800 roubles. Analysts estimate that by the end of 2018, the price of class four wheat could reach about 8,700 roubles. The same trend is predicted for prices of all grains. According to forecasts, grain exports will reach 44 million tonnes in 2018, about the same as last year.







Stabilisation and even a small reduction in prices of fuel and lubricants, which is very important for agricultural producers, were also discussed. The minister reported that the Government made a decision to reimburse agricultural producers from its Reserve Fund for certain losses related to the increase in prices of diesel fuel and petrol.







Mr Patrushev also informed the President about loans for the sowing and harvesting campaigns, laying emphasis on the importance of launching the new mechanism for easy-term loans last year. By June 25, the Ministry of Agriculture had already approved over 220 billion roubles for subsidised short-term loans for all purposes.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57903
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old July 7th, 2018 #859
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Greetings to the 26th Alye Parusa of Artek International Children’s Film Festival



Vladimir Putin sent a message of greeting to participants, organisers and guests of the 26th Alye Parusa of Artek International Children’s Film Festival now taking place in the Crimea.



July 1, 2018 - 10:30



The message reads, in part:

“Your cinema forum is considered to be one of the most promising creative projects for children and young people and a great and popular event of the summer season at the Artek International Children's Centre.

It is gratifying that the organisers set themselves such important goals as education and raising awareness, while striving to support the children in their professional and spiritual development, as well as in the fulfilment of their talents and abilities. This festival certainly always leads to opportunities to meet new people, make interesting, amazing discoveries and see the best works of your peers; it is also a wonderful opportunity to meet famous directors, actors, writers, actors, and learn from them.”

The festival is being held at the Artek International Children's Centre. The Big and Small Children's Juries will evaluate over 20 films from the contest programme.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57907






Telephone conversation with King Felipe VI of Spain



July 1, 2018 - 21:55



The President of Russia extended his greetings to King Felipe VI of Spain, who attended the football match between the national teams of Russia and Spain. King Felipe VI congratulated Vladimir Putin on the Russian team's victory.

The two sides had a brief exchange of opinions on issues related to the further development of bilateral relations.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57908






Congratulations to Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on winning the presidential election in Mexico



Vladimir Putin sent a message of congratulations to Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on winning the presidential election in Mexico.



July 2, 2018 - 12:30



In his message, the Russian President noted that Russia highly appreciates its friendly relations with Mexico and advocates their further development. Vladimir Putin also expressed hope that in his new capacity Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador would give due consideration to Russia-Mexico cooperation.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57920






Congratulations to President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko on Independence Day



Vladimir Putin congratulated President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko on the country’s national holiday, Independence Day.



July 3, 2018 - 10:00



“July 3 is a memorable date in the history of Belarus. The liberation of Minsk from the Nazi invaders was one of the most important victories attained by our fathers and grandfathers during the Great Patriotic War. Their legacy of fraternal friendship and mutual assistance continues to serve as the solid foundation for the further development of Russian-Belarusian ties,” the President of Russia wrote in his message.

Vladimir Putin expressed gratitude to the President of Belarus for the hospitality the Russian delegation recently enjoyed in the capital of Belarus and expressed confidence that the implementation of the decisions adopted at the meeting of the Supreme State Council of the Union State would help the advancement of bilateral integration.

The President of Russia also confirmed the resolve to continue to work constructively within the Union State and the Eurasian Economic Union in the interests of both nations.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57923






Birthday greetings to President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev



Vladimir Putin sent birthday greetings to President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev.



July 6, 2018 - 09:00



“In the many years you have been serving as the head of state, you have earned respect of the people of Kazakhstan and a high international profile. You have shaped the vision of Eurasian integration, and it is now about to materialise, facilitating socioeconomic development in our countries, and ensuring stability and security on the continent,” the President of Russia wrote in his message.

Vladimir Putin praised the warm and friendly relations he enjoys with Nursultan Nazarbayev, expressing confidence that Moscow and Astana will further strengthen their allied and strategic partnership, as well as expand effective bilateral ties within the Eurasian Economic Union, the CSTO, the SCO, the CIS and many other multilateral platforms in the interests of the brotherly peoples of Russia and Kazakhstan.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57952






Telephone conversation with President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev



Vladimir Putin congratulated President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev on his birthday and on the 20th anniversary of Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan.



July 6, 2018 - 16:10



The two presidents discussed current bilateral and international topics as well as the schedule of upcoming contacts.

Earlier today, Vladimir Putin sent a message of congratulations to Nursultan Nazarbayev.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57959
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln
 
Old July 7th, 2018 #860
Alex Him
Senior Member
 
Alex Him's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 6,834
Blog Entries: 219
Post

Working meeting with Acting Governor of Novosibirsk Region Andrei Travnikov



Vladimir Putin had a working meeting with Acting Governor of the Novosibirsk Region Andrei Travnikov to discuss the current situation in the region and its socioeconomic development plans.



July 2, 2018 - 14:30 - Novo-Ogaryovo, Moscow Region







The Acting Governor reported that the industrial production index increased by 5.8 percent over a period of the past five months. In 2017 the Novosibirsk Region moved up from the 27th to the 19th place in the rating of the regions’ investment appeal. Now work is underway to draft a strategy for the region’s socioeconomic development through to 2030. Benchmarks for the majority of social goals outlined in the presidential executive orders of May 2012 have been achieved.

Science and education are the region’s main strong points. Novosibirsk is a major scientific centre. The plan of measures to develop the Siberian Scientific Centre and the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences is being elaborated in cooperation with the Russian Government, the Plenipotentiary Envoy’s office together with the Academy of Sciences. The plan is comprehensive: its aim is to develop the field of scientific research and create conditions for introducing and increasing the number of medium-sized and future major enterprises that will engage in the implementation of innovations.

The Acting Governor noted that the Novosibirsk transport hub is another strong point of the region. This is why the work on transport strategy both of the region and its agglomeration is conducted in parallel with the elaboration of the socio-economic strategy. The region is taking part in the Safe and Quality Roads federal project. Every year the share of roads within the agglomeration that meet the standards grows by 10 percent. The region will bring the share of such roads to 52 percent by the end of this year and to 85 percent by 2024, as contemplated by the Executive Order of May 7.







Air transportation services are making good headway. Tolmachevo Airport, the largest transport hub beyond the Urals, served over 5 million passengers in 2017. The airport’s operator, Novaport, has major plans for increasing its capacity to 9–10 million passengers annually in the next few years.

Andrei Travnikov also reported on preparing Novosibirsk for the 2023 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships. Work is underway on a new ice sports centre and the surrounding infrastructure.

The region’s agriculture reported a nearly 8 percent growth and a record large grain harvest of nearly 3 million tonnes last year. However, there is a shortage of processing facilities for agricultural products. The socioeconomic development strategy provides for building processing and also storage facilities. Andrei Travnikov believes the focus must be on enhancing the efficiency of agricultural producers and processing companies, saying that farms must have enough funds to keep up the pace of growth.







The President pointed out two things. First, the regional authorities must work with the Government of Russia to further develop Akademgorodok. The respective forward looking plans were formulated together with the Academy of Sciences and the Government back in February.

Second, all matters related to air transportation should be coordinated with the Transport Ministry, which must deal with the Siberian group of airports – Novosibirsk, Omsk, Krasnoyarsk and Irkutsk – to determine the role each of them will play and to consider the distribution of passengers and cargo between them. Much still has to be done to improve the runways as well as the terminals.

The President emphasised that the Government must start working immediately.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57921






Working meeting with Acting Governor of Ivanovo Region Stanislav Voskresensky



Stanislav Voskresensky briefed the President on the socioeconomic situation in the region.



July 3, 2018 - 14:10 - The Kremlin, Moscow







Early on during the meeting, Stanislav Voskresensky focused on complying with the presidential instructions issued following the Direct Line concerning a preferential loan for a large family.

Further, the Acting Governor, who has held this position since October 2017, reported on progress in addressing the region’s problems, including low wages, bad roads and poor quality of healthcare, and asked for support in replenishing the fleet of ambulances and school buses.







According to Mr Voskresensky, the region has new investors. Two major federal companies, SOGAZ and Inter RAO, decided to place a number of their subdivisions in the Ivanovo Region. The plant producing Ivanovets truck cranes is being modernised, and its output is now exported.







With regard to investments in agriculture, they will amount to about 3 billion rubles this year, which is 30 times more than last year. A large livestock production complex, several dairy processing complexes and other enterprises have been built. The Ministry of Agriculture approved these investments and will allocate loans on easy terms. Flax cultivation is being revived.

A decision was made to create an advanced development area in Navoloki, northern Ivanovo Region. The investors are already buying equipment and starting construction.







Domestic tourism is expanding in the region. The railway station in Ivanovo is being renovated. Investments are made in the town of Palekh, an important site for Russian history and culture, which has been considered the capital of Russian icon painting since the 18th century. In addition, the Russian Government allocated funds to repair the road to Palekh, which is home to one of the largest museums of Russian icons.







Improving life in the region’s small towns is a top priority. Many of them, such as Palekh, Kineshma, Yuryevets, Shuya, Kholui – the capital of the lacquer miniature – and other towns, are an important part of the Russian cultural history.

The Acting Governor of the Ivanovo Region also said that he needs federal support to improve roads, in particular, the road connecting Ivanovo with Nizhny Novgorod, which will help promote mutually beneficial development projects for the two regions.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57925






Working meeting with Acting Governor of the Primorye Territory Andrei Tarasenko



Acting Governor of the Primorye Territory Andrei Tarasenko informed the President about the priorities of the region’s socioeconomic development.



July 4, 2018 - 16:40 - The Kremlin, Moscow







Andrei Tarasenko has been acting governor since October 4, 2017, and sees it as his task to recover the production that was lost in the region, and to boost the existing industries – primarily, the sea port facilities. Agriculture, specifically, crop husbandry and livestock breeding, is developing in the region.










The Acting Governor also pointed out certain problems in the region, particularly, the distribution of quotas on fish and crab fishing as well as the shortage of doctors and teachers. According to Tarasenko, the region needs support in training professionals for Primorye, including in universities based in other Russian regions.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57946






Meeting with St Petersburg Governor Georgy Poltavchenko



Georgy Poltavchenko reported to the President on the socioeconomic situation in St Petersburg.



July 5, 2018 - 13:20 - The Kremlin, Moscow







The Governor informed the President that preliminary reports show industrial production growth rate of 3.5 percent in the first six months of the year, while growth rate in retail and services is slightly lower. This indicates economic recovery.







The region’s revenue grew by approximately 10 percent year-on-year. At the end of the first quarter, investment in capital stock stood at around 82 billion rubles. Capital investment over the previous year was 658 billion rubles.







Georgy Poltavchenko reported that the St Petersburg City Government approved the strategy of socioeconomic development for the city until 2035. The action plan to implement the strategy is based on all the provisions of the Presidential Executive Order of May 12, including the indicators. Currently, the Government is drafting a budget for 2019 and further years to meet the objectives of the May Executive Order.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57948






Meeting on economic issues



The President held a meeting on economic issues at the Kremlin.



July 5, 2018 - 19:30 - The Kremlin, Moscow







The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, First Deputy Prime Minister – Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Anton Vaino, First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Sergei Kiriyenko, Presidential Aide Andrei Belousov and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Oreshkin.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Good afternoon, colleagues.

Today we will discuss important socio-economic issues and review additional proposals on promoting business activities, improving the investment climate and encouraging large infrastructure projects on road construction, transport and communications. Naturally, we will analyse our progress in the major areas of our social and demographic policy.

Before we start, I would like to note that in the first five months of this year the macro-economic situation has been generally stable. Positive trends are being posted in key areas.

Thus, in January–May industrial production increased by 3.2 percent. Agriculture grew by 2.5 percent. Freight traffic volume increased by 3.1 percent. Unemployment and inflation remain at low levels. We are seeing growth in real salary and income averages.







Of course, we need to remember that not all people feel this. We need to keep this in mind. But these are the statistics, and I hope they will continue so that most of our people will feel the positive effect of this economic performance.

That said, it is obvious that we are still facing system-wide problems and complications related to the structural specificities of our economy and the impact of external factors. No doubt, we should not relax because of the current positive trends.

We have to resolve serious tasks of increasing peoples’ incomes and enhancing the effectiveness and targeted orientation of social support. We must do all we can to increase labour productivity, the development of small- and medium-size businesses and the appearance of new high-tech production lines in Russia.







In general, it is necessary to give additional impetus to the domestic economy and initiate a long-term trend on enhancing its stability and improving living standards. These goals are reflected in the Executive Order on National Goals and Strategic Objectives of the Russian Federation to 2024. As a reminder, before October 1 of this year the provisions of the Executive Order must be developed into specific national projects and programmes. Let me emphasise again at this point that it is very important to develop cooperation with the regions of Russia and ensure the organisational and financial alignment of the federal and regional programmes.

Let’s discuss all these issues today and see what we should do to resolve all of the above tasks.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57951






Meeting with football legends



Vladimir Putin met with world football stars in the Kremlin.



July 6, 2018 - 11:50 - The Kremlin, Moscow







The guests invited to a meeting with the President of Russia included best player of the 2010 World Cup playing for Uruguay Diego Forlan, 1990 World Cup champion playing for Germany Lothar Matthaeus, 1988 European champion playing for the Netherlands Marco van Basten, six-time winner of the English Premier League and winner of the 2008 UEFA Champions League Rio Ferdinand, 1992 European champion playing for Denmark Peter Schmeichel, 1999 Confederations Cup winner playing for Mexico Jorge Campos, bronze winner of the 1998 World Cup playing for Croatia Zvonimir Boban, silver winner of the 2009 European Women’s Championship playing for England and winner of the 2007 UEFA Women’s Champions League Alexandra Scott, as well as 1956 Olympic champion, Merited Master of Sports of the USSR, Merited Coach of the USSR and First Vice President of the Russian Football Union Nikita Simonyan.

President of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) Gianni Infantino and Presidential Aide Igor Levitin also participated in the meeting.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Mr Infantino, friends,

Welcome to the Moscow Kremlin.

First, I want to express my gratitude to the FIFA President for inviting all of you to Russia and the World Cup. I think we could start a very nice tradition for the future because you, as people who are well known not only in the football community but among all sports enthusiasts in your countries and around the world, are representatives of this wonderful sport, football. This is the first point.







Second, when people see you on the stands and how you communicate with your teams, with football fans from your and other countries, this inspires them to do sports and stay fit, and creates a special atmosphere of trust and celebration.

Therefore, I want to point out that football fans from all over the world – our fans are doing their best as well – so both foreign and Russian football fans are those who create this atmosphere of trust and celebration.

As you know, many of them are travelling all over our country. Tens of thousands of people came to Russia from across the world. Tens of thousands. And they are those who created this wonderful festive atmosphere.







Of course, they can see the hospitality and such a great welcome from our people, both sports lovers and ordinary people who are far from football. Our people are happy that so many fans came to Russia with such good intentions.

In this regard, I want to point out that the so-called people’s journalists, people who work independently on their own behalf in social media, have also helped destroy many stereotypes about Russia. People can see that Russia is a hospitable and friendly country.

To a large extent, our football enthusiasts deserve credit for this.







Everyone knows that fans in many countries behave differently, and so I will not comment on this now. However, our football fans view those who have come to cheer for their teams as their friends and members of the extended football family. This is why they are doing all they can to make visitors feel at home, as we say in Russia, and to tell them about our culture and the traditions of the diverse peoples living in Russia, because World Cup matches are held in different Russian cities and different regions. I am confident that the overwhelming majority of visitors will take back home the best feelings and impressions of our country, and that they will visit it again.

The championship itself, as I see it, being no football expert but just a person who loves this wonderful game, is proceeding very well, on high note. There have been many surprises, but then, we like it that way. It is interesting to see the strongest win, when victory depends on the team’s level of preparation and the tactics chosen by the coaches for each particular match. Unpredictability is what makes this game so interesting and why millions of people around the world love it.

Only eight out of the initial 32 teams are still fighting. You are world class experts, and maybe when the journalists leave, you will tell me which team you think will win the cup this year.







One more element of this championship, like any world football championship, is the amazing positive impetus it will give to the development of sports, in particular, football.

You can see that we love football in Russia. We have done a great deal and invested a lot of money in building football infrastructure. I am confident that it was the right decision to choose Russia to host the 2018 World Cup, and we are grateful to the FIFA leadership and everyone else who voted for Russia. To us, it is an opportunity to develop not only football but all popular sports, and football is one of the most popular sports. It is an opportunity to attract people, especially young people, to the values of sport so that they avoid self-destructive action and improve themselves, physically and spiritually.







We will pay special attention to the further development of our football heritage. As soon as the championship is over, we will get together with those who are in charge of sports and those who built and are maintaining these sports facilities and the sports infrastructure in general to discuss a plan for using this sports, engineering and transport infrastructure to promote physical culture in Russia.

I would like to thank you for coming to Russia. Thank you for taking part in this wonderful event.

I give the floor to Mr Infantino now. Gianni, please.







FIFA President Gianni Infantino:

(In Russian.) Spasibo bolshoye.

Thank you very much, Mr President,

Just really a few words to thank you for having us here today, for having these great legends here today who have written so many emotional, exciting, incredible pages in the history of our sport, a sport that millions, hundreds of millions of people, probably billions or certainly billions of people love all around the world. And I am particularly happy that we are here today, and that we are here in Russia during this month because, of course, Russia is a big country, is an important country in the world, and I think that two things have happened at this World Cup.

One is that Russia has become a true football country. I think at the latest since the qualification of the Russian national team against Spain for the quarter-final, the virus of football has entered the bodies of each and every Russian citizen from east to west and from south to north. In the whole country there were incredible celebrations.

And this passion for football in Russia together with what you were just saying – the infrastructure you have built, the stadiums that are beautiful, the 12 stadiums in 11 cities are absolutely beautiful, and there are other stadiums as well in other cities in Russia, not only in Moscow, which show what can be done with football. The plan that you have to not only organise an event but make this a legacy for the future of Russian football is absolutely crucial.







And one crucial element in addition to the stadiums, airports, infrastructure and transportation facilities is the passion for football. And now Russia is a true football country. This is the first thing that happened at this World Cup.

The second happening of this World Cup is that we all fell in love with Russia. All of us, everyone who has been here for a period of time now has discovered a country that we did not know. You were speaking about stereotypes, and it is true. When you come here, when you live here, when you meet the people in the street, when you see Moscow in its incredible beauty as it is these days with all the lights, with all the colours, and with the colours of all the participants of this World Cup walking around wearing their shirts, with their faces painted as their national flags, celebrating, partying, enjoying with the Russian people in an open, festive atmosphere.

This shows that all the fears that some were trying to put on us with regard to this World Cup, not only they are not true, but it is actually the opposite that is true. Everyone who is coming, everyone who is visiting, everyone who is living football in Russia can see what great work has been done, of course with your input by yourself and with input from all the population of Russia, and the volunteers.







I was told that police officers in Red Square are smiling when they are asked for some information. They are very friendly, and this is great. This is exactly what Russia is, and this is a new image of Russia that we now have. So thank you, and thanks to all Russian people for having us here. We are enjoying it incredibly. I feel like a child in a toy shop. I do not know how to explain it. And in addition to this we have a great World Cup from a football perspective which the whole world is enjoying.

Thank you very much on my behalf, on behalf of FIFA, on behalf of the whole world of football, and certainly as well on behalf of all the legends, who are here in Russia. Thank you.



Vladimir Putin:

(In English.) Thank Gianni, thank you for these kind words.



Gianni Infantino:

Who wants to take the floor? Don’t be shy. Lothar, you’re half Russian. (Laughter.)







1990 World Cup champion playing for Germany Lothar Matthaeus:

I am half-Russian, because my wife is from Russia. She is from the north, but she lived in Moscow, so I have been to Moscow a long time before the World Cup.

I came to Moscow for the first time in 1979 with a junior national team of Germany. We visited Red Square. It is completely different. I cannot believe that you can now play football on Red Square with kids, with the President. It was very nice. I saw how Russia and Moscow changed in the last ten, fifteen or twenty years.







Moscow is an international city with a national flair: great restaurants, great places, great places of history. I like Moscow not because of the football only. I like Moscow because it is a beautiful international city. I feel like at home here, and not only because of my wife or because of my relationship with Moscow. I always come to Moscow with a smile because I know what I can expect here. Beautiful people, and especially the World Cup is something special for Russia.

I know that Russians love football, but they were not happy that for the last ten or fifteen years there were no results from the Russian national team, especially two years ago they were not playing with this passion as they are playing now. This passion from the players is caused by spectators and makes this great atmosphere at the stadiums.







I have been to ten World Cups: five World Cups as a player, and five World Cups as a fan. And this is one of the best World Cups I saw in the last forty years.

Thank you, Mr President, thank you very much.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57956






Plenary session of the International Cybersecurity Congress



Vladimir Putin spoke at a plenary session of the International Cybersecurity Congress organised by Sberbank with the support of Data Economy and the Association of Russian Banks.



July 6, 2018 - 13:40 - Moscow







The International Cybersecurity Congress is taking place in Moscow on July 5–6. The forum is an intersectoral platform that facilitates the global cybersecurity dialogue against the backdrop of globalisation and digitalisation.

The Congress brings together the heads of major Russian and foreign companies, vendors of cybersecurity software and services, Russian federal officials and world experts.








President of Russia Vladimir Putin:

Colleagues, friends, ladies and gentlemen,

I am happy to welcome here in Moscow not only football fans, but also you, the participants in the International Cybersecurity Congress.

Very important and relevant issues are being discussed during the forum. Today, the active introduction of digital technology outlines the progressive development of each country and maybe the entire world. Artificial intelligence, robotics, the Internet of Things have become the drivers of economic growth, while digital platforms and electronic document flow radically increase the transparency and efficiency of the activity of government agencies, businesses, social and educational institutions.

Let me say a few words about what we are doing in Russia in these areas.

We understand that digitalisation is a crucial driver of national development and can really improve people's wellbeing. During recent years a lot has been done to introduce new technology and programmes in order to provide an active and equal integration of our country into the global information space.

Thus, we rank first in Europe in terms of the number of Internet users: there are over 90 millions of them in Russia. Internet trade is growing fast, while new banking, insurance and logistics products are available.

People are now used to getting state and municipal services online. Even senior citizens are using online services more and more. It’s not so very long ago that they had to collect certain documents or go to numerous offices and waste time queuing up. Sometimes they still have to do this, but the situation is changing for the better. A new digital environment truly improves the life of people. We are going to continue working in this direction consistently and system-wise.







At the same time I would like to point out that the effective digital development can only be based on a digital freedom for businesses, public organisations, citizens, on lifting the barriers that hinder progress. But nevertheless we all need to understand the responsibility and potential risks, threats together with the challenges of the digital sphere.

In 2018, Russia adopted the Digital Economy programme, aimed at making the economy, public administration and social area more efficient and competitive, as well as to promote the demand for innovative ideas and advanced research.

The programme prioritises the creation of flexible legal regulations, which should take into account the specifics of the industry, and to not hamper but to follow the breakthrough development of digital technology. It also should protect economic freedoms, ownership, security, private life and personal space of citizens.

Another important field is the creation of a modern information infrastructure to fast and securely forward, process and store volumes of data bigger by times than today, in other words, to correspond not only to today’s situation, but to the requirements of tomorrow too.

During the programme implementation, all Russian medical and educational institutions, virtually all inhabited localities will get access to modern communication services, and the spreading of the new-generation mobile communications and the wireless networks for the Internet of Things will begin.







In addition to this, a national Russian system will be implemented for assessing data processing centres; and the development of Russian communication satellite systems providing internet access to the remote northern districts and on transport routes will continue.

Another of the programme’s priorities is the development of research and innovation in the sphere of end-to-end digital technology. It will be tested in close cooperation with businesses and scientists, which will allow the promotion of Russian technology and use it as the basis for creating popular and competitive digital products.

And, of course, the most important thing is to train specialists and develop competences that will make it possible to continue large-scale transformations in the digital economy.

Colleagues,

Of course, security of the global information space requires special attention today. We can see that the number of threats and risks in this field is only growing. For example, according to the data of the World Economic Forum, last year the damages from cyberattacks alone accounted for about a $1 trillion in the world, and experts believe that this damage will be even worse if no effective measures are taken.

Like other countries, Russia faces these challenges too. For example, the number of cyberattacks on Russian websites in the first quarter of this year grew by a third compared with the same period of the previous year.

I believe that it is the job of the state to neutralise them and provide cybersecurity in general; in order to solve it, we must unite efforts of law enforcement agencies, businesses, public organisations and citizens.

In this connection we are implementing the programme that consists of specific initiatives designed to combat cybercrime. What are these priority steps?

First of all, we will have to devise new comprehensive solutions for preventing and stopping cybercrime. These solutions must enable law enforcement agencies to better respond to threats of this kind. The corresponding legal framework must be created so that we offer individuals convenient tools for interacting with government agencies.







Second, the initiative promoted by businesses to create an automated system for exchanging information on digital threats will be implemented. It is expected to facilitate coordination among telecom operators, lending institutions and internet providers with law enforcement agencies during cyberattacks, helping promptly address any emerging threats.

Third, we will seek to ensure that software and communications infrastructure are based on Russian technology and solutions that were duly certified and approved. Of course, this should not be to the detriment of competition. It goes without saying that we are talking about competitive products here that meet the highest consumer expectations.

Fourth, we intend to achieve a quality breakthrough in training experts in combatting cybercrime, and for this we will introduce practice-oriented approaches and use the best international and Russian practices.

Finally, and this is my fifth point, we intend to develop and improve international exchanges of information on cybercrime. The Government will decide in the near future on the agency that will be in charge of this work.

We know very well that cyber threats have reached a scale where they can be dealt with only through the joint efforts of the entire international community. I would like to say a few words on the matter of international cooperation in the development of the global information space and ensuring its security. Just a few words.

Russia has always called for a joint and fair settlement of any arising problems, let alone disputes. At the same time, we believe that security measures and the regulation of this space must not hinder its technological and innovative development. As I already said, our turbulent digital era depends on freedom, including the freedom to communicate as well as to exchange experience and ideas.







It is very important in this situation to develop common rules of the game and binding international standards that will take into account the rights and interests of all countries as much as possible and will be universal and acceptable for all. We have seen more than once that some countries’ egoism and self-centred policies are damaging the international information stability.

By way of a positive example, I will tell you about the coordination of the General Data Protection Regulation between Russia and European countries within the framework of the Council of Europe. Crucial decisions have been taken to prevent the illegal transfer of Russians’ personal data to other countries.

I would like to say that Russia has advanced a number of initiatives on the rules of responsible behaviour of states in the information sphere, legal mechanisms for fighting cybercrime and international internet governance.

We intend to continue to promote these initiatives, primarily at the most highly respected and influential international organisation, the UN.

In conclusion, I would like to wish you, my colleagues and friends, every success, and I hope that the ideas and proposals advanced at this congress will help boost the development of the global information space and enhance its safety.

Thank you very much.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57957






Meeting with permanent members of Security Council



Vladimir Putin held a meeting with permanent members of the Security Council.



July 6, 2018 - 15:30 - The Kremlin, Moscow







The meeting participants discussed strategic stability and security in the context of preparations for the Russian-US summit to be held in Helsinki on July 16.

They also discussed current socioeconomic issues on the national agenda.

The meeting participants wished success to the Russian football team at Russia’s upcoming quarter-final match against Croatia.

Attending the meeting were Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko, State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Anton Vaino, Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev, Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev, 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.




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57958






Greetings on 400th anniversary of Novokuznetsk



Vladimir Putin congratulated the residents of Novokuznetsk on the 400th anniversary of the city’s foundation.



July 7, 2018 - 10:00



The message reads, in part:

“Founded long ago in 1618 on the bank of the Tom River, the city stood guard for a long time of the country’s eastern border before playing a major role in the settlement of Siberia. You have every right to be proud of the many generations of your fellow city residents who developed the Kuzbass area, built plants, housing, schools, transport and energy facilities. With their selfless labour they have strengthened Russia’s economy.

Today, Novokuznetsk is a large and modern city, a major centre of the metals industry and coal mining. It is pleasing to see the respect with which you treat the glorious history of your hometown, and the real work and endeavours that you engage in to contribute to its prosperity.”




The source of information - http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/57962
__________________
Where should they dig the Very Deep Pit?
Piglet said that the best place would be somewhere where a Heffalump was, just before he fell into it, only about a foot farther on.
(c) Alan Alexander Miln

Last edited by Alex Him; July 7th, 2018 at 06:31 AM.
 
Reply

Tags
putin, putin speech, vladimir putin

Share


Thread
Display Modes


All times are GMT -5. The time now is 07:41 AM.
Page generated in 3.99422 seconds.