"Human history has known many barrier and division lines and structures. One of the most famous is the Great Wall of China. I think that it is the only man-made structure visible from space. But why is it still standing after hundreds of years? Because it protected a nation, while the Berlin Wall divided one. That, of course, was its unnatural aspect. It was clear to me that in the modern world, it is impossible to confine a nation and have it remain confined."

The meeting focused on the social and economic situation in the Perm Territory.

“We have established a good way to communicate directly with people. It allows us to understand their concerns, and for the State Duma, the Federal Government, and the regional governments to take these concerns into account when developing policy. All the more so since United Russia is represented in all regions, and has a majority in most regional parliaments."

“The recent tragedy at the Sayano-Shushenskaya electric power station reminded us how cautious we must be while dealing with infrastructure security. Operating without accidents and meeting the demands of the economy and ordinary people are the main criteria by which we must evaluate the effectiveness of an energy system. Clearly, this can be achieved by thoroughly modernising electric power stations and distribution networks, and refurbishing obsolete facilities with reliable cutting-edge and high-capacity equipment.”

“Today, we will discuss the state of leading Russian manufacturers—mainly AvtoVAZ, the United Aircraft Building Corporation and the Oboronprom United Industrial Corporation.”

“We have great cinematographic legacy. Our films traditionally receive prestigious awards at international festivals. However, our films have not yet won a mass foreign audience. In other words, we are still unable to exert in full measure economic, cultural, and humanitarian influence, which is one of the most important and serious tasks of domestic film making.”

Accompanied by VGIK Rector Vladimir Malyshev, Mr Putin visited the floor where operators conducted practical training. He was presented with a small statue of an operator with a camera, VGIK’s symbol, across his shoulder.

Mr Putin and Mr Artemyev discussed stiffening penalties for the crime of collusion and enacting of an appropriate law.