"The state will continue to support the initiatives of the church aimed at strengthening civil and interregional accord, its social, cultural, educational and charitable mission. Orthodoxy has from the start been exceptionally tolerant of other religions. It was the position of the Russian Orthodox Church that contributed to the creation of the Russian state both as a multinational and a multi-confessional one."

“I will put the interests of the state first and as a Government member I deem it my duty to effectively strike a balance between the interests of the state and the development of the company,” Mr Zubkov stressed.

"I am convinced that we must move further in order to tap the full potential of the two countries and use their significant resources. We should step up our work in all areas. The various Union State structures must act more efficiently and with greater commitment."

"We still face many challenging tasks that call for prompt decisions and vigorous actions. Above all they have to do with the creation of a common economic space and a fully-fledged customs union, as well as removing the obstacles that hinder our integration."

"We can report many achievements not only in cooperation, but in the development of our countries. We are aware that resolving social issues on the basis of economic achievements is our priority."