Communications Minister Igor Shchegolev briefed the Prime Minister on the progress of the Federal targeted programme "for the development of Radio and TV broadcasting in Russia in 2009 - 2015."

The Far East was chosen as the starting point for the introduction of digital broadcasting to Russia. Digital broadcasting on Russian national TV and Radio channels will begin in the region by the end of 2010.

Of the 41 facilities required to launch digital broadcasting in the Far East, 17 have already been built. In Khabarovsk region, "actual digital broadcasting will start as early as February 2010," and in Vladivostok, "test broadcasting is already under way on conversion channels."

The Prime Minister had the opportunity to watch a digital broadcast in Vladivostok and commented that "the quality is surprisingly good, even for specialists."

The total amount of funds allocated for the Federal targeted programme "for the development of Radio and TV broadcasting in Russia in 2009 - 2015" stands at over 122 billion roubles.