Transcript of the beginning of
the meeting:
Vladimir Putin: Mr Belykh, the Kirov Region had it rough last year and reported a significant decline in production that exceeded the national average.
Nikita Belykh: That is true, production fell by approximately 16%.
Vladimir Putin: However, your region is recovering significantly faster than the national average as well. Industrial production grew by about 6% on average in Russia in the first quarter - in the first two months, to be more precise - whereas in the Kirov Region it reached 13.5%, as far as I know.
Nikita Belykh: The growth rate was 13.5% in January and February. We expect a somewhat lower rate for the quarter - about 11% against the first quarter of 2009.
Vladimir Putin: I have reviewed the rise in regional electricity rates. Rates increased by 10% for the population, which is acceptable. But why did rates grow by more than 33% for agricultural enterprises?
Nikita Belykh: A government resolution that had been in effect since 2004 classified agricultural enterprises as a special group entitled to special rates. Starting January 1, 2010, these enterprises were reclassified as general consumers. We have already prepared a letter to you requesting an extension of these special rates for agricultural producers. We fear that the current rise in agricultural production could level off as a result of increased rates and electricity costs this year.
Vladimir Putin: In any case, we need to support agricultural producers during the spring sowing season. As for the rates, let's discuss the matter in detail.