The working group discussed the development of biomedical technology in Russia. The Deputy Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Healthcare jointly with relevant federal executive bodies, technology platforms and development institutions to prepare a concept for the federal targeted programme for funding biomedical research.

Meeting participants also discussed using biotechnology to develop innovative medical equipment, including modern diagnostics equipment based on biosensors and biochips. They took a decision in principle to support this field. Arkady Dvorkovich instructed the relevant federal executive bodies to prepare, by May 1, 2013, proposals on developing diagnostics and screening technology.

In addition, they discussed issues related to improving the legal framework governing the use of biomedical cell technology, including customs regulation, biomedical use of human tissue, and tax concessions. The Deputy Prime Minister issued an instruction to expedite the development of these legal acts.

The meeting was attended by Minister of Healthcare Veronika Skvortsova, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Yury Slyusar, State Secretary – Deputy Minister of Economic Development Oleg Fomichyov, Chairman of the State Duma Committee for Science and Science-Intensive Technology Valery Chereshnyov, Vice President of the Russian Academy of Sciences Anatoly Grigoryev, Vice President of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences Alexander Gintsburg and other representatives of federal and regional bodies, as well as the scientific and business communities.