“You know of course about the massive help the Government has given AVTOVAZ, and you are surely also aware of the related criticism. I would heed that criticism because we must not preserve inefficient production. We cannot leave a business, or workforce, in difficulty: we must and will help them. However, at the same time, we must require that the owners and the managers take concerted action to improve production, reduce delays and expenses.”

They discussed the impact of the global crisis on the region’s social and economic affairs.

"We have discussed on several occasions the effectiveness of regional authorities. We have also worked out criteria to assess the work of the Government, and now we should refer to them more often. We should frequently reassess our anti-crisis policies, whether they work and help address our immediate concerns, and which of our actions produce tangible results for specific people."

“We are fully funding this project from the federal budget. However, 35 scholarships which the German Government grants for the annual training of our personnel is very important support. It would be impossible to set up this centre without this intellectual contribution.”

“It goes without saying that despite the current crisis, we will give priority to such projects. What we are doing in the Government together with Russian medical experts is natural because it is our duty.”