Prime Minister Vladimir Putin chairs a Government Presidium meeting

“The main thing we expect from the integration of Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan is further rapprochement between the countries, the strengthening of their economic potential and improved living standards for their citizens. I am convinced that this powerful new integration project could dramatically change the geopolitical configuration of the Eurasian space and promote unification processes in all the CIS countries.”

Prime Minister Vladimir Putin holds a meeting of the government commission on the socio-economic development of the North Caucasus Federal District in Yessentuki

“The federal programme for the development of the North Caucasus must become a major instrument in resolving the region’s socio-economic issues, supporting business, launching new production lines, forming a modern social infrastructure, and reducing unemployment, which has become the main social headache in the region.”

Prime Minister Vladimir Putin holds a meeting with Rashid Temrezov, head of the Karachayevo-Circassian Republic

The two officials discussed issues related to agro-industrial and industrial production and the development of tourism in the region, including the Arkhyz project. Moreover, the prime minister highlighted the situation in the construction sector and the education modernisation programme in Karachayevo-Circassia.

Prime Minister Vladimir Putin meets with Sergei Frank, general director of the state shipping company Sovcomflot

Vladimir Putin and Sergei Frank discussed progress in the fleet modernisation programme, Sovcomflot’s involvement in major projects, including those in the Arctic, the company’s contract portfolio, and the quality of the Russian shipbuilding industry’s products.

Prime Minister Vladimir Putin meets with Yaroslavl Governor Sergei Vakhrukov

The two officials discussed the results of activities conducted in the Yaroslavl region in the first quarter and other important projects, including: mechanical engineering, roads and a plan to update the regional healthcare service.

Prime Minister Vladimir Putin holds a meeting with Minister of Culture Alexander Avdeyev and Director of the State Hermitage Museum Mikhail Piotrovsky

The officials discussed the upcoming 250th anniversary of the State Hermitage Museum, to be celebrated in 2014. The prime minister noted that the Hermitage Museum is a site of global cultural significance, and its anniversary should be celebrated accordingly. At the same time, he added, the goal is not only to celebrate but to strengthen the museum.

Prime Minister Vladimir Putin met with trade union representatives at the Research Institute of Physical Measurements in Penza

The conversation touched on a variety of issues, including the role trade unions play at the company, skill formation, space industry development and other important topics.