Transcript
Plenary Session of the 10th Eastern Economic Forum
English includes full house translations. Review is pending; untranslated passages and selected digest glosses remain labelled.
| Русский | English |
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| 1 Trusting Economic Information | |
| М.Рыбакова: Добрый день, уважаемые почётные гости, Владимир Владимирович! Добрый день, участники форума, зрители в зале, те ранние пташки, которые на западной части нашей страны проснулись, для того чтобы посмотреть нашу пленарную сессию. Впереди, естественно, нас с вами ждут и выступления почётных гостей. Но в самом начале я бы хотела немножко перетянуть одеяло на свою сторону. Владимир Владимирович, Вы не против? Пару минуток украсть, немножко объясниться. Хочу сразу признаться, я не экономист. Я ведущая новостей, я в прошлом юрист, я москвичка, одним словом, гуманитарий. Но я также часто хожу в магазины, я тот человек, который смотрит на цены в этих магазинах и, мягко говоря, иногда удивляется. Я действительно очень много в экономике не понимаю, и, вы знаете, бывает, для того чтобы найти ответы, ты заходишь на один замедленный сейчас в России видеохостинг, и там тебе экономисты рассказывают, что всё плохо, инфляция, бюджет трещит. Потом ты заходишь на другой видеохостинг, там тебе другие экономисты рассказывают о том, что всё хорошо, всё замечательно, впереди прорывы, мы всех победим и так далее. И у меня, наверное, как и у любого обычного россиянина, возникает вопрос: кому верить, Владимир Владимирович, кому верить из этих экономистов? Верить никому нельзя. Нужно исходить из собственного опыта, обращаться к мнению не просто тех людей, которые с удовольствием сидят в интернете и высказывают свою точку зрения, обращаться к мнению специалистов, если есть желание глубоко разобраться в вопросе, который вас интересует. Ничего революционного я вам не скажу. Но если обращаться к мнению действительно специалистов, они разные. И вопросы, которые Вы задаёте, на самом деле только внешне кажутся простыми. Вот Вы сказали про цены. Рост цен – это как бы инфляция. Центральный банк борется с этой инфляцией и пытается вернуться к известным и нужным показателям, не больше 4–5 процентов. Но это связано с высокой ключевой ставкой, это вызывает вопросы у тех, кто занимается реальным производством, и наверняка многие сидящие здесь в зале скажут: да, это безобразие, невозможно, нужно ключевую ставку резко снижать. Но тогда цены будут расти. В общем, единственное, что я могу сказать, хочу заверить вас в том, что российские финансовые власти, Правительство Российской Федерации и Центральный банк ведут себя профессионально. Мы всегда, я хочу это подчеркнуть, всегда исходили из того, что базовым условием для развития российской экономики, а значит, и социальной сферы, является устойчивая макроэкономическая политика. Мы её проводили на протяжении многих, многих лет, на протяжении как минимум полутора десятков лет, и это давало в конечном итоге положительный эффект, положительный результат, создавало условия для движения страны вперёд. Уверен, что будет так и на этот раз. Спасибо большое. Может быть, я немножко сумбурно начала, но, наверное, самое главное, что я хотела сейчас озвучить, – то, что мне хочется сегодня поговорить об экономике, знаете, не в «высоколобых» таких экономических формах, не об институциональной экономике, а об экономике, которая, наверное, понятна и важна обычному жителю Владивостока, обычной семье, которая интересует меня и таких, как я. Давайте я быстренько расскажу, как всё будет сейчас происходить, по какому принципу строиться. Формат, я думаю, здесь всем знакомый. Сначала у нас будет официальная часть, это выступления уважаемых гостей, Владимира Владимировича. И дальше мы перейдём к блоку вопросов и ответов. Очень хочется рассчитывать, что это будет дискуссия. Но пока я не уверена, что получится, потому что с Владимиром Владимировичем спорить сложно, но я, по крайней мере, попробую. Передаю слово Президенту страны – хозяйки форума. Владимир Владимирович, просим Вас. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Good afternoon, honored guests, Vladimir Vladimirovich! Good afternoon to the forum participants, the audience in the hall, and those early birds in the western part of our country who have woken up to watch our plenary session. Naturally, speeches by our honored guests await us. But at the very beginning I would like to pull the blanket over to my side a little. Vladimir Vladimirovich, would you mind? To steal a couple of minutes and explain myself a little. I want to admit right away that I am not an economist. I am a news presenter, a former lawyer, a Muscovite—in short, someone with a humanities background. But I also often go shopping; I am someone who looks at prices in these shops and, to put it mildly, is sometimes surprised. There really is a great deal about economics that I do not understand, and you know, sometimes, to find answers, you go to one video-hosting platform that is currently slowed down in Russia, and economists there tell you that everything is bad, there is inflation, the budget is cracking. Then you go to another video-hosting platform, and other economists there tell you that everything is good, everything is wonderful, breakthroughs lie ahead, we will defeat everyone, and so on. And I, probably like any ordinary Russian, have a question: whom should we believe, Vladimir Vladimirovich, which of these economists should we believe? You should believe no one. You need to proceed from your own experience and consult the opinions not simply of people who enjoy sitting on the internet and expressing their point of view, but of specialists, if you want to understand deeply an issue that interests you. I will tell you nothing revolutionary. But if you consult the opinions of genuine specialists, they differ. And the questions you ask actually only look simple on the surface. You mentioned prices. Rising prices are, in a sense, inflation. The Central Bank is fighting this inflation and trying to return to the familiar and necessary indicators, no more than 4–5 percent. But this involves a high key rate, which raises questions among those engaged in actual production, and surely many sitting here in the hall will say: yes, this is outrageous, impossible, the key rate needs to be lowered sharply. But then prices will rise. Overall, the only thing I can say is that I want to assure you that Russia’s financial authorities, the Government of the Russian Federation and the Central Bank are acting professionally. We have always—I want to emphasize this—always proceeded from the principle that a fundamental condition for the development of the Russian economy, and therefore the social sphere too, is a stable macroeconomic policy. We have pursued it for many, many years, for at least a decade and a half, and ultimately this had a positive effect, a positive result, creating conditions for the country to move forward. I am confident it will be the same this time too. Thank you very much. Perhaps I began a little chaotically, but probably the main thing I wanted to say just now is that today I would like to discuss economics, you know, not in such “highbrow” economic terms, not institutional economics, but economics that is probably understandable and important to an ordinary resident of Vladivostok, an ordinary family, that interests me and people like me. Let me quickly explain how everything will proceed now, the principle on which it will be organized. The format, I think, is familiar to everyone here. First we will have the official part, speeches by our honored guests and Vladimir Vladimirovich. Then we will move on to the question-and-answer section. I very much hope it will be a discussion. But for now I am not sure it will work, because arguing with Vladimir Vladimirovich is difficult, but at least I will try. I give the floor to the President of the forum’s host country. Vladimir Vladimirovich, please. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Plenary session moderator |
| 2 Development of the Russian Far East | |
| В.Путин: Уважаемый господин Сонсай Сипхандон! Уважаемый господин Занданшатар! Уважаемый господин Ли Хунчжун! Дамы и господа! Дополнительно Встреча с Премьер-министром Лаоса Сонсаем Сипхандоном 4 сентября 2025 года Встреча с Премьер-министром Монголии Гомбожавын Занданшатаром 4 сентября 2025 года Встреча с заместителем Председателя Постоянного комитета Всекитайского собрания народных представителей Ли Хунчжуном 4 сентября 2025 года Хочу обратиться сейчас к российской части аудитории и попросил бы вас поприветствовать всех наших иностранных гостей. И со своей стороны хочу выразить благодарность нашим иностранным гостям, которые приехали к нам, проявляют интерес к работе с нами и посчитали возможным потратить на это своё драгоценной время. Россия, Владивосток вновь принимают участников и гостей Восточного экономического форума из более чем семидесяти стран мира. В этом году форум проводится уже в десятый раз. Напомню, что сама идея его организации была реализована вместе с началом нового этапа развития Дальнего Востока, той большой работы, которая призвана создать широкие возможности для граждан, молодёжи, прежде всего для бизнеса, в полной мере раскрыть ресурсный, промышленный, логистический потенциал этого стратегически значимого региона России, повысить качество жизни дальневосточников. Сегодняшний, юбилейный Восточный экономический форум – это не только повод подвести некоторые итоги совместных действий органов власти и предпринимателей, общественных объединений, но и обозначить дальнейшие шаги, наши долгосрочные планы на Дальнем Востоке, по наращиванию его роли и в отечественной экономике, и в системе международных связей, прежде всего в динамично растущем Азиатско-Тихоокеанском регионе. Как вы знаете, развитие Дальнего Востока и Сибири было обозначено национальным приоритетом России на весь XXI век. Об этом было сказано в Послании Федеральному Собранию в конце 2013 года. Затем стала формироваться и обновляться нормативная база, запущен целый ряд инструментов поддержки бизнеса, включая территории опережающего развития, режим свободного порта Владивосток и преференциальный режим на Курилах, специальный административный район на острове Русский. Развёрнуты масштабные планы по укреплению транспортной, энергетической, коммунальной инфраструктуры. Приняты решения для поддержки жилищного строительства, ремонта и создания социальных объектов: школ, детских садов, поликлиник и больниц, спортивных комплексов. Эти усилия объединены в большую государственную программу развития Дальнего Востока. В ней обозначены амбициозные ориентиры опережающего экономического и технологического роста, повышения благополучия жителей дальневосточных субъектов Федерации. И эти усилия дают ожидаемые результаты. За прошедшие годы по многим ключевым показателям, в первую очередь экономическим, Дальний Восток занял лидирующие позиции, опережая общероссийские темпы. Так, за 10 лет валовой региональный продукт Дальнего Востока увеличился более чем в 2,5 раза: с четырёх триллионов рублей до 11 триллионов. За это время в основной капитал дальневосточных компаний и предприятий было вложено 20 триллионов рублей. Четверть из них – в проекты с государственной поддержкой в таких отраслях, как горнорудная промышленность, нефтегазохимия, строительство и так далее. Назову, пожалуй, и регионы – лидеры по инвестициям в основной капитал за 10 лет: Якутия – 4,5 триллиона рублей, Амурская область – четыре триллиона рублей и Сахалинская область – 2,6 триллиона рублей. На их долю приходится 55 процентов всех инвестиций в Дальневосточный федеральный округ. Динамика инвестиций в дальневосточных регионах такова, что в прошлом году их объём вдвое превысил значение десятилетней давности в реальном выражении. Для сравнения, по России в целом он оказался в полтора раза выше – тоже хороший результат, но всё-таки на Дальнем Востоке лучше. В пересчёте на одного жителя сегодня на Дальнем Востоке инвестируется в два раза больше средств, если сравнить с общероссийским показателем. Что это означает? Что формируется не просто современная промышленная база, а, по сути, новая индустриальная карта региона – вот что это означает. На ней уже появились и появляются тысячи точек роста. В том числе предприятия мирового уровня, такие как Баимский горно-обогатительный комбинат на Чукотке, «Удоканская медь» в Забайкалье, газоперерабатывающий завод и газохимический комплекс в Амурской области, Находкинский завод минеральных удобрений, а также судостроительный завод «Звезда» в Приморье, гидрометаллургический комбинат в Хабаровском крае и другие объекты. Рост деловой, предпринимательской активности, расширение экономических возможностей Дальнего Востока – это основа для дальнейшего развития региона. И важно сохранить устойчивую динамику в его традиционных отраслях, по тем направлениям, которые уже, что называется, пошли в рост, развивать инфраструктурные, логистические связи, обеспечивать надёжное снабжение доступной и чистой энергией и, конечно, ресурсами. Отмечу, что сырьевая база Дальнего Востока, добыча полезных ископаемых в регионе расширяется. Так, добыча угля и золота в регионе за 10 лет выросла почти в 1,7 раза. В том числе благодаря заявительному принципу лицензирования недр, который позволил более активно привлечь частный капитал в геологоразведку, кратно увеличить количество открытий новых месторождений, включая такие крупные, как золото-медное месторождение Лугокан в Забайкалье и золото-серебряное месторождение Роман в Якутии. Отдельно затрону тему редких и редкоземельных металлов, которые применяются в высокотехнологичных отраслях, в приборостроении, атомной технике, в радиоэлектронике и так далее. Зачастую эти ресурсы накапливаются и в отвалах при освоении месторождений, в том числе и здесь, на Дальнем Востоке. Система учёта таких запасов налажена. По мере развития технологий они могут быть извлечены и эффективно использованы. О запуске соответствующих программ говорил и в июне на Петербургском экономическом форуме. Вместе с тем необходимо проводить регулярную ревизию таких ценных компонентов по всей цепочке, в том числе на этапе переделов и экспорта в виде концентратов. Кроме того, нужно внедрять передовые технологии обогащения руды редких и редкоземельных металлов и их обработки. И конечно, стимулировать спрос на них внутри России, на новых производствах. Полгода назад, в феврале, мы договорились утвердить долгосрочный план развития редкоземельной индустрии. Прошу Правительство Российской Федерации сделать это не позднее ноября текущего года. Далее. Буквально накануне пленарного заседания прошло совещание по энергетике Дальнего Востока. Наверняка многие из вас это заметили, обратили на это внимание. Очевидно, что с развитием экономики, социальной сферы потребность в электроэнергии в регионе будет только увеличиваться. И, соответственно, нужно так планировать ввод мощностей, чтобы они отвечали растущим запросам бизнеса, городов и поселений, граждан. Речь о развитии газовой и современной угольной генерации. И конечно, об использовании огромного потенциала гидроэнергетики. На реках Дальнего Востока уже действуют и должны строиться электростанции, которые вырабатывают экологически чистую энергию. Их создание требует современных инженерных, технологических решений, и наша ведущая компания, «Русгидро», располагает таким опытом, такими заделами. Но очевидно, что для развития гидроэнергетики требуются серьёзные капиталовложения. Поручения на этот счёт давались. Рассчитываю, что Правительство, коллеги в регионах продолжат уделять особое внимание развитию малых и крупных ГЭС. Причём подчеркну: речь в данном случае идёт не только об экономической составляющей. Неотъемлемой частью развития гидроэнергетики является ответственное водопользование, управление многолетними стоками, предотвращение паводков, что прямо влияет на экологию, сельское хозяйство и безопасность городов и посёлков. И конечно, реки Дальнего Востока – это природные транспортные артерии, которые соединяют территории, обеспечивают снабжение городов и посёлков в рамках северного завоза. В этой связи отдельный вопрос – это логистика. За последние годы нагрузка на транспортную систему Дальнего Востока заметно выросла. Укрепляются связи региона с зарубежными странами. Всё это требует обновления автомобильных и железнодорожных магистралей, расширения морских терминалов, создания современных транспортных узлов с роботизированными складами и цифровой обработкой грузов. Мы продолжим модернизацию Восточного полигона железных дорог – БАМа и Транссиба. В 2032 году их провозные мощности должны стать в полтора раза выше, чем на начало текущего года. Предстоит и дальше расширять железнодорожные подходы к морским портам Дальнего Востока, которые динамично развиваются, прежде всего за счёт частных инвесторов. За последние 10 лет портовые мощности в регионе фактически удвоились. Сегодня они составляют почти 380 миллионов тонн грузов в год. В соответствии с действующим федеральным проектом портовые мощности Дальнего Востока должны вырасти к 2030 году ещё на 115 миллионов тонн грузов в год. На Дальнем Востоке уже построены транспортные мосты в Китай – «Нижнеленинское – Тунцзян» и «Благовещенск – Хэйхэ». В планах также строительство новых мостов, в том числе в Корейскую Народно-Демократическую Республику, через реку Туманную, который должен быть открыт в следующем году. Нужно активно развивать транспортно-логистические центры в районе этих мостов, чтобы использовать их возможности, пропускные способности по максимуму. Кроме того, модернизируются пограничные переходы. Такая задача также поставлена. Решение её представляет значительный интерес, потому что одной транспортной артерии недостаточно, нужна соответствующая административная логистика. Добавлю, что в каждом регионе Дальнего Востока обновляются аэропорты. Они уже обслуживают более 14 миллионов пассажиров в год, в том числе туристов, которые всё активнее посещают эти замечательные, красивейшие места. В этой связи отмечу инициативу корпорации «ВЭБ.РФ». Подготовлены мастер-планы развития 12 новых всесезонных курортов в Приморье, на Сахалине и Камчатке, что позволит в течение десяти лет практически удвоить количество туристов, которые приезжают в эти регионы. Отмечу в этой связи такие знаковые события, как восстановление после пандемии ковида авиарейсов между Владивостоком и Пхеньяном, а также запуск прямого авиасообщения между столицами России и Корейской Народно-Демократической Республики. Полёт по этому маршруту состоялся в конце июля. А месяцем ранее возобновилось курсирование беспересадочных вагонов между Москвой и Пхеньяном. Уверен, эти решения послужат дальнейшему сближению наших стран, установлению более прочных связей. Конечно, особо значимая тема – как для Дальнего Востока, так и для всей нашей страны, для всего Евразийского континента – это развитие Трансарктического транспортного коридора. Он пролегает от Санкт-Петербурга через Мурманск, Архангельск и Северный морской путь во Владивосток. Мы видим, что заинтересованность в этом маршруте растёт. Как со стороны российских компаний, работающих в Арктике, так и со стороны иностранных перевозчиков. Причём речь идёт не только о единичных, разовых транзитах, а о формировании устойчивой грузовой базы. Мы будем развивать Трансарктический коридор. Мы всё время говорим про Северный морской путь. Но если вы обратили внимание, я сказал и говорю про Трансарктический коридор, потому что мы пришли к выводу, что нужно оперировать соображениями большего масштаба, и нужно, чтобы эта артерия действовала в комплексе со всеми прилегающими к Северному морскому пути территориями и с их возможностями. Ну так вот, это комплексная система, которая должна объединить морской, железнодорожный, автомобильный виды транспорта. Она позволит использовать потенциал наших крупнейших рек, таких как Обь, Енисей и Лена. Всё должно работать в единой системе. Нам предстоит не только прокладывать надёжные, безопасные морские маршруты в Арктике, выходить на круглогодичную работу Трансарктического коридора. Впереди и работа, что называется, «на берегу». Имею в виду развитие связи и навигации, систем обслуживания судов и аварийно-спасательной инфраструктуры. И конечно, речь идёт о модернизации морских портов в Арктике и на Дальнем Востоке. Кстати, буквально вчера был открыт мультимодальный комплекс «Артём» здесь, в Приморском крае. Он обрабатывает контейнеры, которые поступают как из-за рубежа, так и из регионов России, а также должен повысить эффективность северного завоза. Очень важно, чтобы подобные современные транспортно-логистические центры в нашей стране развивались, чтобы их становилось всё больше и больше, чтобы доставка, обработка грузов происходила быстрее и эффективнее. И, подчеркну, именно в таких точках, в логистических комплексах важно применять передовые, в том числе беспилотные технологии. Далее. Трансарктический коридор должен работать в первую очередь в интересах отечественной экономики и наших регионов Дальнего Востока, Сибири, Арктики, учитывать кооперацию между ними и открывать новые возможности для бизнеса. И здесь подчеркну два потенциально значимых направления развития. Это создание современных центров судостроения. Они должны будут выпускать всю линейку судов для работы на маршруте: от буксиров и судов снабжения до балкеров и газовозов ледового класса, а также сверхмощных ледоколов. И второе. Чтобы повысить эффективность, устойчивость Трансарктического коридора, нужно открыть прямой доступ грузам из Сибири, с Урала на морские трассы Арктики. Я прошу коллег из Правительства, из морской коллегии России оценить целесообразность этих предложений и дать по ним свои предложения. В своё время хороший импульс для экономического роста, для частной инициативы на Дальнем Востоке дали передовые, новаторские для нашей страны механизмы, такие как территории опережающего развития. Напомню, что закон о ТОРах был принят в конце 2014 года, а сам механизм был запущен в следующем, 2015 году. Задача заключалась в том, чтобы у нас на Дальнем Востоке создать по-настоящему глобально конкурентоспособные условия для бизнеса. Поэтому мы разрабатывали режимы ТОРов на основе лучших практик делового, инвестиционного климата, в том числе Азиатско-Тихоокеанского региона. Какие льготы даёт сегодня этот механизм? Коллеги в основном знают, тем не менее для наших гостей я повторил бы: это прежде всего пониженные тарифы страховых взносов 7,6 процента на 10 лет; пониженная до нуля федеральная часть налога на прибыль сроком на пять лет; сниженная региональная часть этого налога: в первые пять лет она составляет от нуля до пяти процентов, а в следующие пять лет – 10 процентов; льготная ставка налога на добычу полезных ископаемых. Кроме того, в ТОРах предусмотрена процедура свободной таможенной зоны, а также возмещение части затрат на инфраструктуру и льготное кредитование бизнеса. Почему я так подробно останавливаюсь на условиях ТОРов? Потому что они уникальны для бизнеса, причём не только для нашей страны, но и для многих других государств, для наших коллег и друзей из других стран. Инструмент ТОРов доказал свою эффективность, помог запустить множество инвестпроектов, системно поддержать предпринимателей, компании на самом важном этапе – в период строительства, налаживания производства и выхода на проектные мощности. На Дальнем Востоке создано 18 территорий опережающего развития. В них работают более трёхсот резидентов, которые вложили почти четыре триллиона рублей инвестиций и создали 95 тысяч новых рабочих мест. Уже не раз Правительство принимало решения расширить границы конкретных ТОРов под новые проекты. Сейчас с учётом накопленного успешного опыта предлагаю сделать кардинальный шаг, а именно: что называется, бесшовно, с сохранением условий для действующих инвесторов запустить на всей, подчеркну, на всей территории Дальнего Востока и Арктики единый преференциальный режим для бизнеса. И сделать это нужно с 1 января 2027 года. Речь идёт о том, чтобы упростить использование инструментов поддержки предпринимателей, компаний, их новых проектов. Иными словами: куда бы ни пришёл инвестор, в любой дальневосточный или арктический регион, город, посёлок, он везде будет иметь право на льготы. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: Respected Mr. Sonexay Siphandone! Respected Mr. Zandanshatar! Respected Mr. Li Hongzhong! Ladies and gentlemen! Additionally Meeting with the Prime Minister of Laos, Sonexay Siphandone, 4 September 2025 Meeting with the Prime Minister of Mongolia, Gombojavyn Zandanshatar, 4 September 2025 Meeting with the Deputy Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, Li Hongzhong, 4 September 2025 I want now to address the Russian part of the audience and would ask you to welcome all our foreign guests. And for my part I want to express gratitude to our foreign guests, who have come to us, show interest in working with us, and considered it possible to spend their precious time on this. Russia, Vladivostok, is once again receiving the participants and guests of the Eastern Economic Forum from more than seventy countries of the world. This year the forum is being held already for the tenth time. I will recall that the very idea of its organization was realized together with the beginning of a new stage of development of the Far East, of that large work which is meant to create broad possibilities for citizens, for young people, above all for business, to disclose in full the resource, industrial, and logistics potential of this strategically significant region of Russia, to raise the quality of life of Far Easterners. Today's anniversary Eastern Economic Forum is not only an occasion to sum up some results of the joint actions of the authorities and entrepreneurs, of public associations, but also to mark further steps, our long-term plans in the Far East, for building up its role both in the domestic economy and in the system of international ties, above all in the dynamically growing Asia-Pacific region. As you know, the development of the Far East and Siberia was designated a national priority of Russia for the whole twenty-first century. This was said in the Address to the Federal Assembly at the end of 2013. Then the regulatory base began to be formed and updated; a whole series of instruments of support for business was launched, including territories of advanced development, the free-port-of-Vladivostok regime and the preferential regime on the Kurils, a special administrative district on Russky Island. Large-scale plans for strengthening transport, energy, and municipal infrastructure have been unfolded. Decisions have been taken to support housing construction, repair, and the creation of social facilities: schools, kindergartens, polyclinics and hospitals, sports complexes. These efforts are united in a large state program for the development of the Far East. In it ambitious benchmarks are marked for advanced economic and technological growth, for a rise in the well-being of the residents of the Far Eastern constituent entities of the Federation. And these efforts are giving the expected results. Over the years that have passed, by many key indicators, first of all economic ones, the Far East has taken leading positions, outpacing the all-Russian rates. Thus, over 10 years the gross regional product of the Far East increased by more than 2.5 times: from four trillion rubles to 11 trillion. Over this time, 20 trillion rubles were invested in the fixed capital of Far Eastern companies and enterprises. A quarter of them were in projects with state support in such branches as the mining industry, oil and gas chemistry, construction, and so on. I will name, perhaps, the regions that are leaders in investment in fixed capital over 10 years as well: Yakutia — 4.5 trillion rubles, Amur Oblast — four trillion rubles, and Sakhalin Oblast — 2.6 trillion rubles. They account for 55 percent of all investment in the Far Eastern Federal District. The dynamic of investment in the Far Eastern regions is such that last year their volume was twice the value of ten years ago in real terms. For comparison, for Russia as a whole it turned out one and a half times higher — also a good result, but all the same it is better in the Far East. Recalculated per inhabitant, today twice as much money is invested in the Far East, if one compares with the all-Russian indicator. What does this mean? That not simply a modern industrial base is being formed, but, in essence, a new industrial map of the region — that is what this means. On it thousands of points of growth have already appeared and are appearing. Including enterprises of world level, such as the Baimsky mining and processing plant on Chukotka, Udokan Copper in Transbaikalia, the gas-processing plant and the gas-chemical complex in Amur Oblast, the Nakhodka mineral-fertilizer plant, and also the Zvezda shipbuilding plant in Primorye, the hydrometallurgical plant in Khabarovsk Krai, and other facilities. The growth of business and entrepreneurial activity, the expansion of the economic possibilities of the Far East, is the basis for the further development of the region. And it is important to preserve a stable dynamic in its traditional branches, in those directions that have already, as they say, gone into growth, to develop infrastructure and logistics ties, to ensure a reliable supply of accessible and clean energy and, of course, of resources. I will note that the raw-materials base of the Far East, the extraction of minerals in the region, is expanding. Thus, the extraction of coal and gold in the region over 10 years grew by almost 1.7 times. Including thanks to the declarative principle of licensing of the subsoil, which made it possible to attract private capital into geological exploration more actively, to increase severalfold the number of discoveries of new deposits, including such large ones as the Lugokan gold-copper deposit in Transbaikalia and the Roman gold-silver deposit in Yakutia. I will separately touch on the theme of rare and rare-earth metals, which are applied in high-technology branches, in instrument-making, in nuclear technology, in radio electronics, and so on. Often these resources also accumulate in the dumps during the mastery of deposits, including here, in the Far East. A system of accounting for such reserves has been set up. As technologies develop they can be extracted and used effectively. I also spoke of the launch of corresponding programs in June at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum. At the same time it is necessary to conduct a regular audit of such valuable components along the whole chain, including at the stage of processing and of export in the form of concentrates. In addition, advanced technologies for the enrichment of the ore of rare and rare-earth metals and for their processing need to be introduced. And of course, demand for them inside Russia, at new production facilities, needs to be stimulated. Half a year ago, in February, we agreed to approve a long-term plan for the development of the rare-earth industry. I ask the Government of the Russian Federation to do this no later than November of the current year. Further. Literally on the eve of the plenary session a meeting on the energy of the Far East took place. Surely many of you noticed this and paid attention to it. It is obvious that with the development of the economy and the social sphere the need for electricity in the region will only increase. And, accordingly, the commissioning of capacities must be planned so that they answer the growing requests of business, of cities and settlements, of citizens. This is about the development of gas generation and of modern coal generation. And of course, about the use of the enormous potential of hydropower. On the rivers of the Far East power stations that generate environmentally clean energy are already operating and must be built. Their creation requires modern engineering and technological solutions, and our leading company, RusHydro, has such experience, such groundwork. But it is obvious that the development of hydropower requires serious capital investment. Instructions on this score were given. I count on the Government and on colleagues in the regions continuing to pay special attention to the development of small and large hydroelectric stations. And I emphasize: in this case the talk is not only of the economic component. An inseparable part of the development of hydropower is responsible water use, the management of multi-year runoff, the prevention of floods, which directly affects the ecology, agriculture, and the safety of cities and settlements. And of course, the rivers of the Far East are natural transport arteries that connect territories and ensure the supply of cities and settlements within the framework of the northern delivery. In this connection a separate question is logistics. Over recent years the load on the transport system of the Far East has grown noticeably. The region's ties with foreign countries are strengthening. All this requires the renewal of automobile and railway main lines, the expansion of sea terminals, the creation of modern transport hubs with robotized warehouses and digital processing of cargo. We will continue the modernization of the Eastern operating domain of the railways — the BAM and the Trans-Siberian. In 2032 their carrying capacities must become one and a half times higher than at the beginning of the current year. The railway approaches to the sea ports of the Far East, which are developing dynamically, above all at the expense of private investors, also remain to be expanded further. Over the last 10 years port capacities in the region have in effect doubled. Today they come to almost 380 million tons of cargo a year. In accordance with the current federal project, the port capacities of the Far East must grow by 2030 by another 115 million tons of cargo a year. In the Far East transport bridges to China have already been built — Nizhneleninskoye–Tongjiang and Blagoveshchensk–Heihe. Also in the plans is the construction of new bridges, including into the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, across the Tumannaya River, which must be opened next year. Transport and logistics centers in the area of these bridges need to be developed actively, in order to use their possibilities and their throughput capacities to the maximum. In addition, border crossings are being modernized. Such a task has also been set. Solving it is of significant interest, because one transport artery is not enough; corresponding administrative logistics is needed. I will add that in every region of the Far East airports are being renewed. They already serve more than 14 million passengers a year, including tourists, who are visiting these remarkable, most beautiful places ever more actively. In this connection I will note the initiative of the VEB.RF corporation. Master plans have been prepared for the development of 12 new all-season resorts in Primorye, on Sakhalin, and on Kamchatka, which will make it possible, within ten years, practically to double the number of tourists who come to these regions. I will note in this connection such landmark events as the restoration, after the COVID pandemic, of flights between Vladivostok and Pyongyang, and also the launch of direct air service between the capitals of Russia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. The flight on this route took place at the end of July. And a month earlier the running of through carriages between Moscow and Pyongyang resumed. I am sure these decisions will serve the further drawing-together of our countries and the establishment of firmer ties. Of course, a particularly significant theme — both for the Far East and for our whole country, for the whole Eurasian continent — is the development of the Trans-Arctic transport corridor. It runs from St. Petersburg through Murmansk and Arkhangelsk and the Northern Sea Route to Vladivostok. We see that interest in this route is growing. Both on the part of Russian companies working in the Arctic and on the part of foreign carriers. And the talk is not only of single, one-time transits, but of the formation of a stable cargo base. We will develop the Trans-Arctic corridor. We speak all the time of the Northern Sea Route. But if you paid attention, I said, and I am speaking, of the Trans-Arctic corridor, because we have come to the conclusion that one must operate with considerations of a larger scale, and that this artery must act in a complex with all the territories adjoining the Northern Sea Route and with their possibilities. Well then, this is a comprehensive system that must unite the sea, rail, and automobile modes of transport. It will make it possible to use the potential of our largest rivers, such as the Ob, the Yenisei, and the Lena. Everything must work in a single system. Before us lies not only the laying of reliable, safe sea routes in the Arctic and the reaching of year-round operation of the Trans-Arctic corridor. Ahead is also work, as they say, "on shore." I mean the development of communications and navigation, of systems for servicing ships, and of emergency-rescue infrastructure. And of course, the talk is of the modernization of sea ports in the Arctic and in the Far East. By the way, literally yesterday the Artyom multimodal complex was opened here, in Primorsky Krai. It processes containers that arrive both from abroad and from the regions of Russia, and it must also raise the effectiveness of the northern delivery. It is very important that similar modern transport and logistics centers in our country develop, that there be more and more of them, so that the delivery and processing of cargo take place faster and more effectively. And, I emphasize, it is precisely at such points, in logistics complexes, that it is important to apply advanced technologies, including unmanned ones. Further. The Trans-Arctic corridor must work first of all in the interests of the domestic economy and of our regions of the Far East, Siberia, and the Arctic, take into account cooperation among them, and open new possibilities for business. And here I will emphasize two potentially significant directions of development. This is the creation of modern centers of shipbuilding. They will have to turn out the whole line of ships for work on the route: from tugs and supply ships to bulk carriers and ice-class gas carriers, and also super-powerful icebreakers. And the second. In order to raise the effectiveness and the resilience of the Trans-Arctic corridor, direct access for cargo from Siberia and from the Urals onto the sea routes of the Arctic must be opened. I ask colleagues from the Government, from the Maritime Collegium of Russia, to assess the expediency of these proposals and to give their own proposals on them. In its time a good impulse for economic growth, for private initiative in the Far East, was given by advanced mechanisms that were innovative for our country, such as territories of advanced development. I will recall that the law on the territories of advanced development was adopted at the end of 2014, and the mechanism itself was launched in the following year, 2015. The task consisted in creating, in our Far East, truly globally competitive conditions for business. Therefore we worked out the regimes of the territories of advanced development on the basis of the best practices of the business and investment climate, including those of the Asia-Pacific region. What benefits does this mechanism give today? Colleagues in the main know; all the same, for our guests I would repeat: this is above all reduced tariffs of insurance contributions of 7.6 percent for 10 years; the federal part of the profit tax reduced to zero for a term of five years; a reduced regional part of this tax: in the first five years it comes to from zero to five percent, and in the next five years — 10 percent; a preferential rate of the mineral-extraction tax. In addition, a free-customs-zone procedure is provided in the territories of advanced development, and also reimbursement of part of the costs of infrastructure and preferential lending to business. Why do I dwell in such detail on the conditions of the territories of advanced development? Because they are unique for business, and not only for our country, but for many other states as well, for our colleagues and friends from other countries. The instrument of the territories of advanced development has proved its effectiveness; it has helped launch a multitude of investment projects and systematically support entrepreneurs and companies at the most important stage — in the period of construction, of setting up production, and of reaching design capacities. In the Far East 18 territories of advanced development have been created. More than three hundred residents work in them, who have invested almost four trillion rubles and created 95 thousand new jobs. More than once the Government has taken decisions to expand the boundaries of specific territories of advanced development for new projects. Now, taking into account the successful experience accumulated, I propose taking a radical step, namely: seamlessly, as they say, while preserving the conditions for current investors, to launch, across the whole — I emphasize, the whole — territory of the Far East and the Arctic, a single preferential regime for business. And this must be done from 1 January 2027. The talk is of simplifying the use of the instruments of support for entrepreneurs, for companies, for their new projects. In other words: wherever an investor may come — to any Far Eastern or Arctic region, city, or settlement — everywhere he will have the right to the benefits. |
| Matching Russian passage has not been identified |
Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Mr Putin, honourable guests, good afternoon. I also extend my greetings to the participants of the forum, the audience and the early risers in the western part of our country who have woken up to watch our plenary session. Our guests of honour will deliver their statements soon. But first, if you don’t mind, Mr Putin, I would like to steal the spotlight for a moment. Just a couple of minutes to say a few words of explanation. I should say straight away: I am not an economist. I am a news presenter with a legal education who lives in Moscow. In short, I am oriented towards the humanities. But I also go shopping quite often, and I am someone who pays attention to prices, which, frankly, sometimes surprise me. I really know very little about economics, and you know, sometimes when you are looking for answers, you go on a video platform – which, as you know, now runs a bit slowly in Russia – and there, economists tell you that everything is bad: inflation is rising and the budget has been stretched to the limit. Then you go on another platform, and there, other economists tell you that everything is fine, everything is great, that there are breakthroughs ahead, we will beat everyone, and so on. You know, I have already answered questions of this kind. Don't take anyone at their word. The truth is, you should proceed from your own experience, rather than seeking the opinions of those who like to voice their views online. Instead, I suggest you consult the opinions of experts if you truly want to get to the essence of the issue that concerns you. I am not saying anything revolutionary here. But even among specialists, views differ. The questions you have raised only appear simple on the surface. Take prices, for example. Rising prices are, essentially, inflation. The Central Bank is working to curb this inflation and bring it back to the well-known and necessary target of no more than 4–5 percent. But this requires keeping the key rate high, which raises concerns for those engaged in real production. Many people here in this hall will no doubt say: “This is unacceptable, it is impossible, the key rate must be sharply reduced.” But if that happens, prices will only rise further. So the only thing I can say is this: I want to assure you that Russia’s financial authorities – the Government of the Russian Federation and the Central Bank – are acting professionally. We have always, and I want to stress this, always proceeded from the principle that a stable macroeconomic policy is the foundation for developing the Russian economy and, consequently, the social sphere. We have pursued this course for many years, at least a decade and a half, and it has consistently delivered positive results, creating the conditions for the country to move forward. I am confident this will be the case again. |
| 3 Unified Preferential Regime for Business | |
| Подчеркну: при запуске единого преференциального режима будут сохранены условия для действующих инвесторов в территориях опережающего развития. Никаких беспокойств по поводу того, что что-то сейчас будет меняться на ходу, ни у кого не должно быть. В том числе речь идёт о резидентах международных ТОРов. Этот инструмент предполагает ещё более длинные льготы по налогу на прибыль и так называемую «дедушкину оговорку» – здесь все в зале знают, что это такое, тем не менее скажу ещё раз, – то есть неизменные условия работы на период до 15 лет, а также индивидуальный подход и сопровождение каждого инвестора, в том числе иностранных компаний. Нормативная база уже готова, и с 1 января 2026 года международные ТОРы будут работать в Забайкалье, Амурской области, Еврейской автономной области, в Хабаровском крае и Приморье. Приглашаем воспользоваться этой новой возможностью всех наших заинтересованных партнёров. Возвращаясь к единому преференциальному режиму для Дальнего Востока, отмечу следующее. Каким будет набор его преференций, их точные параметры, сроки, отраслевую направленность – предстоит определить Правительству вместе с коллегами в дальневосточных субъектах Федерации. Но что здесь принципиально важно, на что нужно обратить внимание. С опорой на достигнутые результаты в добывающей и обрабатывающей промышленности, на прочный инфраструктурный каркас мы должны запустить новый этап развития Дальнего Востока, формировать экономику будущего с кардинальным улучшением среды для жизни в городах и посёлках, с подготовкой востребованных профессиональных кадров, с высокотехнологичными проектами. В этом, собственно говоря, и суть нового этапа. Нужно сделать территорию всего Дальнего Востока именно территорией, где будут развиваться высокотехнологичные проекты. Думаю, что понятно. Но всё-таки такая огромная территория с небольшим населением и большими пространствами – здесь есть чем загружать людей. И осваивать эти пространства нужно современными методами. У нас уже стартовали национальные проекты по обеспечению технологического лидерства страны. На базе каждого из них прошу Правительство до конца года подготовить и утвердить соответствующую программу развития применительно к Дальнему Востоку и Арктике. Для технологического рывка необходим действительно смелый подход к регуляторике, к правовым рамкам работы бизнеса. Они должны давать зелёный свет новациям, стимулировать разработку прорывных решений и их внедрение в опытное, а затем и в серийное производство, в социальную сферу, в повседневную жизнь. Так, на Сахалине уже действует экспериментальный правовой режим. Он позволяет ускоренными темпами обкатывать беспилотные технологии. Прошу Правительство создать условия для их широкого применения на землях сельхозугодий, в охране природы и природопользовании, на производственных и логистических площадках. На таких пространствах почему беспилотие-то не развивать? Здесь нет таких угроз, которые могут складываться в густонаселённых районах страны. Да и сама жизнь требует применения таких технологий. У нас, допустим, лесные пожары возникают на расстоянии сотен километров от тех центров, из которых можно реагировать на эти пожары. Вот беспилотие в самый раз использовать на этих пространствах. И другие есть возможности на этих огромных территориях для применения современных технологий. Именно здесь их и нужно применять. А это требует, чтобы кадры были соответствующие. А для того, чтобы были соответствующие кадры, что нужно сделать? Нужно создать условия, чтобы люди здесь могли жить, чтобы им хотелось здесь жить, «социалку» надо развивать, культуру надо развивать и так далее. Иначе кадров этих не будет. А значит, и не будет тех людей, которые могут развивать эти технологии. Это комплексная задача. Очевидно, что такие решения будут востребованы не только на Сахалине, но и в других регионах Дальнего Востока, в том числе в Амурской области, Забайкальском крае, на Чукотке и так далее. В этой связи считаю возможным распространить экспериментальный правовой режим в части беспилотных систем на все дальневосточные регионы и расширить его в первую очередь на такие направления, как использование цифровых платформ, искусственный интеллект и оборот данных. В июне на Петербургском экономическом форуме говорил о том, как важно использовать преимущества электронных маркетплейсов. В рамках экспериментального правового режима предлагаю задействовать инфраструктуру отечественных информационных платформ для государственных и муниципальных закупок в сфере образования. И ещё. Дальний Восток должен стать передовым регионом цифрового развития России, особенно в сфере оборота данных. Конечно, с учётом требований по конфиденциальности и безопасности такого оборота. Мы об этом всё время говорим. Мы обязательно вернёмся к этой теме на форуме по искусственному интеллекту, который состоится ближе к концу текущего года. Рассчитываю, что Правительство подготовит предложения на этот счёт. Далее. Для разработки и освоения технологий, для налаживания современных производств к 2030 году в России будет отрыто не менее ста промышленных, бизнес- и технопарков с необходимыми площадями и коммуникациями. Не менее десяти таких парков предстоит создать на Дальнем Востоке и в арктических регионах страны. Уверен, их современная инфраструктура и возможности будут востребованы компаниями, которые находятся на старте своих проектов, реализуют перспективные начинания, в том числе планируют выпускать продукцию, которая призвана заместить иностранные аналоги, включая строительные материалы, медицинское оборудование, транспортную технику и так далее. Чтобы стимулировать развитие собственных отечественных производств, нужны условия для более широкого применения так называемых офсетных контрактов. Когда инвестор вкладывается в новые заводы, цеха, предприятия под гарантированные заказы от государства. В том числе важно развивать практику межрегиональных офсетных контрактов, когда производство открывается в одном субъекте Федерации, а продукция по гарантированным заказам поставляется сразу в несколько регионов. Отдельный вопрос касается финансирования инновационных идей и новых технологических проектов. Тут важны усилия не только государства, но прежде всего частных инвесторов, привлечение венчурных инвестиций. Хорошим примером стал фонд «Восход», который уже поддержал около 40 компаний в робототехнике, медицине, космических технологиях. Прошу коллег из Правительства внимательно изучить опыт этого фонда и помочь с масштабированием его работы на проекты технологического лидерства России. Обратите внимание в первую очередь. В целом считаю необходимым развивать на Дальнем Востоке прозрачную, современную, эффективную финансовую экосистему. У нас уже действует Восточная биржа, по сути, дальневосточный фондовый центр. Предлагаю проработать планы его дальнейшего развития, включая финансовые каналы, регуляторную базу, стимулы для размещения корпоративных акций. Уважаемые коллеги! Развитие Дальнего Востока, Арктики, построение экономики будущего должно вести к повышению благополучия людей, их доходов, к структурному изменению занятости в пользу квалифицированных, высокооплачиваемых рабочих мест. В этом логика, сквозной смысл той стратегии, которую мы реализуем в этих регионах и по всей стране. |
Full house translation — pending review Подчеркну: at the launch of the single preferential regime, the conditions for current investors in the territories of advanced development will be preserved. No one should have any worries that something will now be changed on the move. This also concerns the residents of the international territories of advanced development. This instrument presupposes still longer benefits on the profit tax and the so-called "grandfather clause" — everyone in the hall knows what this is; all the same I will say it once more — that is, unchanged conditions of work for a period of up to 15 years, and also an individual approach and support for each investor, including foreign companies. The regulatory base is already ready, and from 1 January 2026 the international territories of advanced development will operate in Transbaikalia, Amur Oblast, the Jewish Autonomous Oblast, Khabarovsk Krai, and Primorye. We invite all our interested partners to make use of this new possibility. Returning to the single preferential regime for the Far East, I will note the following. What the set of its preferences will be, their precise parameters, the time frames, the sectoral orientation — the Government, together with colleagues in the Far Eastern constituent entities of the Federation, has yet to determine. But what is of principle importance here, what one must pay attention to. Relying on the results achieved in the extractive and manufacturing industries, on a firm infrastructure frame, we must launch a new stage of development of the Far East, form the economy of the future with a radical improvement of the environment for life in cities and settlements, with the training of professional cadres who are in demand, with high-technology projects. This, strictly speaking, is the essence of the new stage. The territory of the whole Far East must be made precisely a territory where high-technology projects will develop. I think this is clear. But all the same, such an enormous territory with a small population and large spaces — there is something with which to occupy people here. And these spaces must be mastered by modern methods. We have already launched national projects for ensuring the country's technological leadership. On the basis of each of them I ask the Government, by the end of the year, to prepare and approve a corresponding development program as applied to the Far East and the Arctic. For a technological leap a truly bold approach to regulation is needed, to the legal frameworks of the work of business. They must give a green light to innovations, stimulate the development of breakthrough solutions and their introduction into pilot and then into serial production, into the social sphere, into everyday life. Thus, an experimental legal regime is already operating on Sakhalin. It makes it possible to test unmanned technologies at an accelerated pace. I ask the Government to create the conditions for their broad application on agricultural lands, in the protection of nature and in nature use, on production and logistics sites. On such spaces, why not develop unmanned systems? There are not the threats here that can take shape in the densely populated districts of the country. And life itself requires the application of such technologies. With us, say, forest fires arise at a distance of hundreds of kilometers from those centers from which one can react to these fires. Unmanned systems are just the thing to use on these spaces. And there are other possibilities on these enormous territories for the application of modern technologies. It is precisely here that they must be applied. And this requires that the cadres be corresponding ones. And in order for there to be corresponding cadres, what must be done? Conditions must be created so that people can live here, so that they will want to live here; the "social sphere" must be developed, culture must be developed, and so on. Otherwise these cadres will not exist. And that means there will not be the people who can develop these technologies. This is a comprehensive task. It is obvious that such solutions will be in demand not only on Sakhalin, but in other regions of the Far East as well, including in Amur Oblast, Transbaikal Krai, on Chukotka, and so on. In this connection I consider it possible to extend the experimental legal regime in the part concerning unmanned systems to all the Far Eastern regions and to expand it first of all to such directions as the use of digital platforms, artificial intelligence, and the circulation of data. In June, at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum, I spoke of how important it is to use the advantages of electronic marketplaces. Within the framework of the experimental legal regime I propose engaging the infrastructure of domestic information platforms for state and municipal procurement in the sphere of education. And one more thing. The Far East must become an advanced region of Russia's digital development, especially in the sphere of the circulation of data. Of course, taking into account the requirements for the confidentiality and security of such circulation. We speak of this all the time. We will certainly return to this theme at the forum on artificial intelligence, which will take place closer to the end of the current year. I count on the Government preparing proposals on this score. Further. For the development and mastery of technologies, for setting up modern production, by 2030 no fewer than one hundred industrial, business, and technology parks with the necessary areas and communications will be opened in Russia. No fewer than ten such parks are to be created in the Far East and in the Arctic regions of the country. I am sure their modern infrastructure and possibilities will be in demand by companies that are at the start of their projects, that are carrying out promising undertakings, including those that plan to turn out products meant to replace foreign analogues, including building materials, medical equipment, transport machinery, and so on. In order to stimulate the development of our own domestic production, conditions are needed for a broader application of so-called offset contracts. When an investor puts money into new plants, shops, enterprises against guaranteed orders from the state. It is also important to develop the practice of interregional offset contracts, when production is opened in one constituent entity of the Federation and the products, against guaranteed orders, are supplied at once to several regions. A separate question concerns the financing of innovative ideas and new technological projects. Here the efforts not only of the state are important, but above all of private investors, the attraction of venture investment. A good example has become the Voskhod fund, which has already supported about 40 companies in robotics, medicine, and space technologies. I ask colleagues from the Government to study carefully the experience of this fund and to help with scaling its work onto the projects of Russia's technological leadership. Pay attention first of all. On the whole I consider it necessary to develop in the Far East a transparent, modern, effective financial ecosystem. The Eastern Exchange is already operating with us; in essence, a Far Eastern stock center. I propose working through plans for its further development, including financial channels, the regulatory base, and incentives for the placement of corporate shares. Respected colleagues! The development of the Far East and the Arctic, the building of the economy of the future, must lead to a rise in people's well-being, their incomes, to a structural change in employment in favor of skilled, highly paid jobs. This is the logic, the through-line meaning of the strategy we are carrying out in these regions and across the whole country. |
| Matching Russian passage has not been identified |
Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you very much. Perhaps my introduction was a little scattered, but the main point I wanted to make is this: today I would like us to talk about the economy not in abstract, highbrow terms, not about institutional economics, but about the economy that matters to ordinary people in Vladivostok, to a typical family. That is the kind of economy that concerns me, and people like me. Let me briefly explain how we will proceed, what the format will be. I think everyone here is familiar with it. First, we will have the official part, with speeches by our distinguished guests, including Mr Putin. After that, we will move on to the Q&A session. I very much hope it will be a real discussion. I am not sure how it will unfold, because it’s not easy to argue with Mr Putin, but I will do my best. I will now give the floor to the president of the country hosting this forum. Mr Putin, you have the floor. Additional Meeting with Prime Minister of Laos Sonexay Siphandone September 4, 2025 Meeting with Prime Minister of Mongolia Gombojav Zandanshatar September 4, 2025 Meeting with Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China Li Hongzhong September 4, 2025 Vladimir |
| 5 Energy and Resource Development | |
| Повторю: экономика России должна стать экономикой высоких зарплат. Это не пустой звук, не популизм какой-то. В этом есть экономический смысл. За последние 10 лет средняя зарплата на Дальнем Востоке выросла в 2,5 раза и по итогам прошлого года превысила 100 тысяч рублей в месяц в номинале. Уровень безработицы в регионе сократился с 7 до 2,4 процента. Во всех дальневосточных субъектах Федерации снизился уровень бедности. Да, в большинстве из них он пока выше, чем в среднем по России, и здесь есть над чем работать, однако в целом, подчеркну, динамика хорошая, позитивная. В среднем по России с 2014 по 2024 год уровень бедности сократился с 11,3 процента до 7,2 процента. Среди дальневосточных регионов бедность ниже среднероссийского уровня в некоторых регионах: на Сахалине – 5,3 процента, в Магаданской области – 5,9 процента, на Чукотке – 4,4 процента. Что отмечу: мы с вами помним, как на фоне проблем, трудностей в экономике, социальной сфере в конце прошлого века с Дальнего Востока начали уезжать люди. Это была действительно угрожающая тенденция, которую было очень сложно переломить. Но нам это удаётся. Постепенно, но удаётся. Приведу показательные цифры: с 2014 года за пять лет миграционный отток на Дальнем Востоке составил 211 тысяч человек, но уже в следующие пять лет он сократился до 109 тысяч человек. Тоже много, но сокращение почти в два раза. Причём в 2024 году был впервые отмечен миграционный приток, небольшой, но всё-таки: 24 тысячи человек. Да, пока не так много, но сам факт изменения тенденции уже стал серьёзным достижением. Что особенно важно, на Дальний Восток поехала молодёжь, причём со всей страны. Начиная с 2015 года, девять лет подряд, отмечается приток ребят в возрасте от 20 до 24 лет. Причём только в прошлом году он вырос в два с лишним раза по сравнению с предыдущим годом. О чём это говорит? О том, что здесь можно получить интересную профессию, найти хорошо оплачиваемую работу, обустроиться, решить вопросы жилья, создать семью, воспитать детей; что именно на Дальнем Востоке создаётся будущее нашей страны. Молодёжь это чувствует, видит и соответствующим образом реагирует. Мы продолжим развитие системы среднего и высшего образования в регионе, будем постоянно настраивать её на кадровые потребности предприятий, организаций, учитывать прогноз состояния рынка труда с развитием новых, перспективных направлений экономики. Уже договорились открыть университетские кампусы в Южно-Сахалинске и Петропавловске-Камчатском, в Якутске и Хабаровске, в Благовещенске, Улан-Удэ и Чите, построить вторую очередь кампуса Дальневосточного федерального университета, кампусы мирового уровня и в Арктике, и в Мурманске, и в Архангельске. Словом, будем формировать все условия для получения качественных, современных знаний. Конечно, важно поддержать не только тех, кто собирается приехать в регион, но и тех, кто родился здесь, живёт, трудится, кто своими руками делает Дальний Восток – а значит, и всю Россию – сильнее, успешнее. Нужно добиться уверенного роста качества жизни дальневосточников и их семей. Это ключевой, важнейший вопрос, который является фундаментом для формирования экономики будущего. По доступности жилья, состоянию городской среды, экологии, социальной сферы в горизонте десятилетия дальневосточные регионы должны выйти на уровень выше среднего по стране. Как вы знаете, с этой целью были составлены мастер-планы для 22 дальневосточных городов и агломераций. Они включают в себя задачи экономического развития населённых пунктов, призваны сформировать современную, по-настоящему комфортную среду для жизни с обновлением жилищно-коммунальной инфраструктуры, обустройством общественных пространств, парков, бульваров, детских и спортивных площадок, с модернизацией социальной сферы. Мастер-планы уже воплощаются в жизнь. На сегодня в их рамках уже создано более 160 объектов, в том числе набережная и детский технопарк в Комсомольске-на-Амуре, стадион в Улан-Удэ и крытый каток в Находке. Проведена модернизация судоверфи, построена набережная и разбит сквер в Якутске. Завершено строительство Камчатской краевой больницы. Конечно, успешная реализация мастер-планов зависит от того, как налажено взаимодействие на местах, в том числе насколько грамотно учитываются аспекты управления городскими агломерациями, которые охватывают сразу несколько муниципалитетов. Прошу Правительство вместе с коллегами в регионах в пилотном режиме апробировать механизмы такого взаимодействия во Владивостокской городской агломерации. А затем на основе полученного опыта к 2030 году зафиксировать их в нормативном поле. До конца текущего десятилетия в рамках дальневосточных и арктических мастер-планов предстоит ввести ещё более шестисот объектов. В их создании важно применять передовые решения – как в проектировании, так и в строительстве. Далее. Для финансирования мастер-планов мы договорились сформировать в национальных проектах специальные разделы, посвящённые именно Дальнему Востоку и Арктике, а также направить на мероприятия мастер-планов пять процентов от расходов профильных государственных программ в социальной сфере, инфраструктуре и так далее. Прошу Министерство финансов обратить внимание на то, что эти решения приняты. Да, там нужно поработать, внимательно посмотреть все эти программы. Но прошу пять процентов сюда безусловно направить и решить стоящие перед регионом задачи. Кроме того, на прошлом форуме поручил выделить отдельный лимит казначейских инфраструктурных кредитов на мастер-планы городов Дальнего Востока и Арктики. До 2030 года на эти цели будет направлено 100 миллиардов рублей, прежде всего на строительство и обновление инфраструктуры. |
Full house translation — pending review Повторю: Russia’s economy must become an economy of high wages. These are not empty words or some kind of populism. There is economic sense in this. Over the past 10 years, the average wage in the Far East has grown 2.5 times and, at the end of last year, exceeded 100 thousand rubles a month in nominal terms. The unemployment rate in the region has fallen from 7 to 2.4 percent. Poverty has declined in all Far Eastern constituent entities of the Federation. Yes, in most of them it is still above the Russian average, and there is work to be done here, but overall, I emphasize, the trend is good, positive. Across Russia on average, from 2014 to 2024, poverty declined from 11.3 percent to 7.2 percent. Among Far Eastern regions, poverty is below the national average in some regions: Sakhalin, 5.3 percent; Magadan Region, 5.9 percent; Chukotka, 4.4 percent. What I would note: you and I remember how, amid economic and social difficulties and problems at the end of the last century, people began leaving the Far East. This was a truly threatening trend that was very difficult to reverse. But we are succeeding. Gradually, but we are succeeding. Let me give revealing figures: over the five years beginning in 2014, migration outflow in the Far East was 211 thousand people, but in the following five years it fell to 109 thousand. Still a lot, but a reduction of almost half. Moreover, in 2024, a migration inflow was recorded for the first time, small but nevertheless an inflow: 24 thousand people. Yes, not very many yet, but the very fact that the trend changed has already become a significant achievement. Particularly importantly, young people have gone to the Far East, from across the country moreover. Beginning in 2015, for nine consecutive years, an inflow of young people aged 20 to 24 has been recorded. Last year alone, it more than doubled compared with the preceding year. What does this indicate? That here you can gain an interesting profession, find a well-paid job, settle down, resolve housing issues, start a family and raise children; that it is precisely in the Far East that our country’s future is being created. Young people sense this, see it and respond accordingly. We will continue developing the region’s secondary and higher education system, constantly adapting it to the staffing needs of enterprises and organizations, taking account of labor-market forecasts as new, promising areas of the economy develop. We have already agreed to open university campuses in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk and Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Yakutsk and Khabarovsk, Blagoveshchensk, Ulan-Ude and Chita, to build the second stage of the Far Eastern Federal University campus, and world-class campuses in the Arctic too, in Murmansk and Arkhangelsk. In short, we will create all the conditions for obtaining high-quality, modern knowledge. Of course, it is important to support not only those planning to come to the region, but also those born here, who live and work here, who with their own hands make the Far East—and thus all Russia—stronger and more successful. We must achieve steady growth in the quality of life of Far Eastern residents and their families. This is a key, vitally important issue that forms the foundation for building the economy of the future. Within a decade, the Far Eastern regions must reach above-average national levels in housing affordability, the condition of the urban environment, ecology and the social sphere. As you know, master plans were drawn up for 22 Far Eastern cities and agglomerations for this purpose. They include economic development objectives for these communities and are intended to create a modern, truly comfortable living environment by renewing housing and utility infrastructure, developing public spaces, parks, boulevards, playgrounds and sports grounds, and modernizing the social sphere. The master plans are already being implemented. To date, more than 160 facilities have already been created under them, including an embankment and a children’s technology park in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, a stadium in Ulan-Ude and an indoor skating rink in Nakhodka. The shipyard has been modernized, an embankment built and a small park laid out in Yakutsk. Construction of the Kamchatka Regional Hospital has been completed. Of course, successful implementation of the master plans depends on how cooperation is organized locally, including how competently account is taken of managing urban agglomerations encompassing several municipalities at once. I ask the Government, together with colleagues in the regions, to pilot mechanisms for this cooperation in the Vladivostok urban agglomeration. Then, on the basis of the experience gained, formalize them in the regulatory framework by 2030. Before the end of the current decade, more than six hundred further facilities must be commissioned under the Far Eastern and Arctic master plans. It is important to use advanced solutions in creating them, in both design and construction. Next. To finance the master plans, we agreed to create special sections in the national projects devoted specifically to the Far East and the Arctic, and also to allocate five percent of expenditure under the relevant state programs in the social sphere, infrastructure and so on to master-plan activities. I ask the Finance Ministry to note that these decisions have been made. Yes, work is needed there, all these programs must be examined carefully. But I ask that five percent be allocated here unconditionally and the tasks facing the region be resolved. In addition, at the last forum I instructed that a separate allocation of treasury infrastructure loans be provided for the master plans of Far Eastern and Arctic cities. By 2030, 100 billion rubles will be allocated for these purposes, primarily for infrastructure construction and renewal. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Putin: Mr Sonexay Siphandone, Mr Zandanshatar, Mr Li Hongzhong, ladies and gentlemen, Allow me first to address the Russian part of the audience. I would ask you to extend a warm welcome to all our international guests. For my part, I wish to express my gratitude to our foreign colleagues for coming here, showing an interest in working with us, and devoting their valuable time to this forum. Russia and Vladivostok once again are hosting participants and guests of the Eastern Economic Forum, with representatives from more than seventy countries around the world. This year, the forum is being held for the tenth time. Let me remind you that the very idea of establishing it coincided with the launch of a new stage in the development of the Russian Far East. This major undertaking is aimed at creating broad opportunities for citizens, for young people, above all for businesses, to fully unlock the resource, industrial and logistical potential of this strategically important region of Russia, and to improve the quality of life for its residents. Today’s anniversary forum is not only an opportunity to take stock of the joint efforts of government bodies, entrepreneurs and public organisations, but also to outline the next steps – our long-term plans for the Far East. These plans concern strengthening its role both in Russia’s national economy and in international relations, above all in the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific region. As you know, the development of the Far East and Siberia has been designated as Russia’s national priority for the entire 21st century. This was announced in the Address to the Federal Assembly at the end of 2013. Subsequently, the legal framework was formed and updated, and a whole range of instruments to support business was introduced, including advanced special economic zones, the Free Port of Vladivostok regime, preferential arrangements for the Kuril Islands, and the establishment of a special administrative district on Russky Island. Ambitious plans have been rolled out to strengthen transport, energy and utilities infrastructure. Decisions have been made to support housing construction, renovation, and the development of social facilities: schools, kindergartens, clinics and hospitals, and sports complexes. All these measures are united within the large-scale State Programme for the Development of the Far East. It sets ambitious targets for accelerated economic and technological growth and for improving the wellbeing of the population across the Far Eastern regions of the Russian Federation. These efforts are delivering results. In recent years, the Far East has taken a leading position across many key indicators – first and foremost economic ones – outpacing Russia’s overall growth rates. Over the past 10 years, the gross regional product of the Far East has increased more than 2.5 times, from 4 trillion rubles to 11 trillion. During this time, 20 trillion rubles were invested in the fixed capital of Far Eastern companies and enterprises. A quarter of this amount was channelled into projects with state support in such sectors as mining, oil and gas chemistry, construction and others. Let me name the leading regions in terms of fixed capital investment over these 10 years: Yakutia, with 4.5 trillion rubles, Amur Region, with 4 trillion rubles, and Sakhalin Region, with 2.6 trillion rubles. Together, these three account for 55 percent of all investment in the Far Eastern Federal District. The investment dynamics in the Far Eastern regions are such that, in real terms, their volume last year was double that of 10 years ago. For comparison, across Russia as a whole the figure was 1.5 times higher. That, too, is a good result. But still, the Far East has done better. Per capita, investment in the Far East today is twice as high as the national average. What does this mean? It means that not only is a modern industrial base being formed, but in fact a new industrial map of the region is emerging. Thousands of new growth points have already appeared, including world-class enterprises such as the Baimsky mining and processing plant in Chukotka, the Udokan Copper project in the Trans-Baikal Territory, the gas processing plant and petrochemical complex in the Amur Region, the Nakhodka mineral fertiliser plant, the Zvezda shipbuilding complex in Primorye, the hydrometallurgical plant in the Khabarovsk Territory, and many others. The growth of business and entrepreneurial activity, along with the expansion of economic opportunities in the Far East, forms the foundation for the region’s future development. It is important to maintain steady progress in its traditional sectors, in areas that are already on an upward trajectory, to develop infrastructure and logistics links, to ensure reliable supplies of affordable and clean energy, and, of course, resources. I should also note that the Far East’s resource base and mineral extraction are expanding. Over the past decade, coal and gold production in the region has grown almost 1.7 times. This has been made possible in part by the declarative principle of subsoil licensing, which has enabled greater private capital involvement in geological exploration, significantly increasing the number of newly discovered deposits, including major ones such as the Lugokan gold and copper deposit in the Trans-Baikal Territory and the Roman gold and silver deposit in Yakutia. I will separately touch on the issue of rare earth metals, which are used in high-tech industries, instrument-making, nuclear technology, electronics and other spheres. These resources are often accumulated in dumps during the development of deposits, including here in the Far East. There is a system for registering these resources. They can be extracted and effectively used with the development of new technologies. I spoke about the launch of such programmes at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum. At the same time, we should regularly review these valuable components throughout the production chain, including at the stage of their reprocessing and export in the form of concentrates. In addition, we must introduce advanced technologies for enriching and processing rare and rare earth metal ores. We must also encourage demand for them at new industrial facilities in Russia. Some months ago, in February, we agreed to approve a long-term plan for the development of the rare earth metals industry. I would like the Government of the Russian Federation to do this no later than November this year. Next, a meeting on the development of the energy complex of the Far East was held on the eve of this plenary session. Many of you have likely taken notice of it. It is clear that the demand for electricity in the region will increase with the development of the economy and the social sphere. Consequently, we must plan the construction of energy facilities so that they meet the growing demands of businesses, cities and villages, and the people. The focus is on the expansion of gas and modern coal generation, as well as using the huge potential of hydropower generation. The hydroelectric power plants on rivers in the Far East are a low-impact electricity source, and new ones must be built. Their construction implies modern engineering and technological solutions, and our leading company in this field, RusHydro, has the necessary experience and groundwork. However, it is obvious that the development of hydropower generation calls for major investments. Relevant instructions have been issued. I hope that the Government and our colleagues in the regions will continue to give special attention to the development of small and large hydroelectric power plants. I would like to emphasise that we are not only talking about the economic aspect. Responsible water use, maintenance of perennial runoff, and flood prevention are integral parts of the development of hydropower generation that have a direct impact on the environment, agriculture and the safety of cities and towns. Rivers in the Far East are also natural transport arteries connecting territories and ensuring deliveries to cities and towns within the framework of the northern supply. In this context, a separate issue is logistics. In recent years, the load on the transport system of the Far East has grown significantly. The region’s ties with foreign countries are being strengthened. All of this requires the upgrading of road and rail arteries, the expansion of seaports and the creation of modern transport hubs with automated warehouses and digital cargo processing. We will continue modernising the Eastern railway network – the BAM and the Trans-Siberian Railway. By 2032, their carrying capacity should be one and a half times higher than at the beginning of this year. It will also be necessary to further expand the railway links to the seaports of the Far East, which are developing dynamically, primarily through private investment. Over the past 10 years, port capacity in the region has effectively doubled. Today, it stands at almost 380 million tonnes of cargo per year. According to the current federal project, the Far Eastern ports’ capacity should increase by a further 115 million tonnes of cargo per year by 2030. In the Far East, transport bridges to China have already been built: the Nizhne-Leninskoye-Tongjiang and Blagoveshchensk-Heihe bridges. Plans also include the construction of new bridges, including one to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea across the Tumannaya River, which is scheduled to open next year. It is essential to actively develop transport and logistics hubs in the vicinity of these bridges to make full use of their capacity. In addition, border crossings are being modernised. This task has also been set, as it is of considerable importance: a single transport artery is not enough, and appropriate administrative logistics are required. I would also add that airports in every region of the Far East are being upgraded. They now handle more than 14 million passengers a year, including tourists, who are increasingly visiting these remarkable and beautiful places. In this context, I would like to note the initiative of VEB.RF. Master plans have been prepared for the development of twelve new all-season resorts in Primorye, Sakhalin and Kamchatka. This will allow the number of tourists visiting these regions to almost double over the next ten years. I would also highlight such landmark developments as the restoration of flights between Vladivostok and Pyongyang following the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the launch of direct air services between the capitals of Russia and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. The flight on this route took place at the end of July. A month earlier, direct train services between Moscow and Pyongyang were resumed. I am confident that these measures will contribute to the further rapprochement of our countries and the establishment of stronger ties. Of course, a particularly significant topic for the Far East, for our entire country, and for the whole Eurasian continent is the development of the Trans-Arctic Transport Corridor. It runs from St Petersburg through Murmansk, Arkhangelsk, and the Northern Sea Route, all the way to Vladivostok. We see that interest in this route is growing, both from Russian companies operating in the Arctic and from foreign carriers. And this is not just about individual, one-off shipments, but about forming a stable cargo base. We will develop the Trans-Arctic Corridor. We often speak about the Northern Sea Route. But if you have noticed, I specifically said – and continue to say – Trans-Arctic Corridor, because we have concluded that we need to operate on a larger scale, and that this artery must function as part of a complex system with all the territories adjoining the Northern Sea Route and their capacities. So, this is a comprehensive system that should integrate maritime, rail and road transport. It will allow us to use the potential of our largest rivers, such as the Ob, Yenisei, and Lena. Everything must work as a single, unified system. Our task is not only to establish reliable and safe sea routes in the Arctic and enable year-round operation of the Trans-Arctic Corridor. There is also work, as they say, onshore: developing communications and navigation, ship servicing systems, and emergency and rescue infrastructure. And, of course, this includes modernising seaports in the Arctic and the Far East. Incidentally, just yesterday, the multimodal hub Artyom was opened here, in the Primorye Territory. It handles containers arriving both from abroad and from Russian regions, and it is expected to improve the efficiency of northern supply deliveries. It is very important that similar modern transport and logistics centres develop in our country, that there are more and more of them, and that cargo delivery and handling become faster and more efficient. And I would like to emphasise that it is precisely at such points, in logistics hubs, that advanced technologies, including unmanned systems, should be applied. Next, the Trans-Arctic Corridor must primarily operate in the interests of the domestic economy and our regions of the Far East, Siberia, and the Arctic, taking into account cooperation between them and opening new opportunities for business. Here, I would like to underline two potentially significant directions for development. First, the creation of modern shipbuilding centres. They should be capable of producing the full range of vessels needed for the route, from tugs and supply ships to bulk carriers and ice-class gas carriers, as well as ultra-powerful icebreakers. Second, to increase the efficiency and resilience of the Trans-Arctic Corridor, we need to provide direct access for cargo from Siberia and the Urals to Arctic maritime routes. I ask my colleagues in the Government and the Russian Maritime Board to assess the feasibility of these proposals and provide their recommendations. Back in the day, mechanisms that were advanced and innovative for our country, such as priority development areas (PDAs), gave a strong boost to economic growth and private initiative in the Far East. As you may recall, the law on PDAs was adopted in late 2014, and the mechanism was launched in 2015. The goal was to create truly globally competitive environment for doing business in the Russian Far East. Therefore, we developed PDA arrangements based on the best business and investment climate practices, including from the Asia-Pacific region. What benefits does this mechanism provide today? Our colleagues are well aware of them in general, but I would like to go over them for our guests. These are, first of all, low insurance premium rates (7.6 percent for 10 years). The federal revenue tax will be zero for five years. The regional revenue tax will amount to anywhere from zero to five percent in the first five years, and ten percent in the next five years. The subsidised tax rate on mineral extraction is provided. In addition, the PDAs provide for a free customs zone, as well as reimbursement of a portion of the expenses involved in building infrastructure and issuing low-interest loans to businesses. The reason I am dwelling on the PDA terms in such great detail is because they are unique for business, and not only in our country, but in many other countries around the world as well, for our colleagues and friends from other countries. PDAs have proven their effectiveness. They have helped launch numerous investment projects, systematically support entrepreneurs and companies at the most important stage during construction, setting up the production cycle, and reaching design capacity. In the Far East, 18 PDAs have been created employing over 300 residents, who have invested almost four trillion rubles and created 95,000 new jobs. The Government has made several decisions to expand the boundaries of specific PDAs to accommodate new projects. Based on existing successful experience, I propose taking a radical step and, as the saying goes, seamlessly, while keeping the terms and conditions for the existing investors unchanged, launch a single preferential regime for business throughout, I emphasise, throughout the entire Russian Far East and the Arctic. This work must begin on January 1, 2027. The task is to simplify the use of support measures for entrepreneurs, companies and their new projects. In other words, investors should have access to incentives wherever they take their money, in every Far Eastern or Arctic region, city and town. I would like to point out that the launch of the single preferential regime will preserve all the terms extended to investors in priority development areas. They do not have to worry that anything will be changed spontaneously. This also concerns the residents of international priority development areas. This instrument stipulates even longer-term profit tax privileges and the so-called grandfather clause – not everyone in the hall knows what it is, so I will explain this term. This clause precludes any changes in the terms of operation for up to 15 years and stipulates an individual approach and support for each investor, including foreign companies. The legal framework is ready, and international priority development areas will start operating in the Transbaikal Territory, the Amur Region, the Jewish Autonomous Region, and the Khabarovsk and Primorye territories on January 1, 2026. We invite all interested partners to take advantage of this opportunity. Regarding the single preferential regime for the Far East, I would like to say this: the list of incentives, their precise parameters, deadlines and industry focus will be determined by the Government together with our colleagues in the Far Eastern entities of the federation. But there are some fundamental issues I would like to point out. Using the results achieved in the mining and processing industries and solid infrastructure, we must start a new development stage in the Far East, shaping an economy of the future, radically improving living conditions in cities and towns, training in-demand professionals and launching high-tech projects. This is the essence of the new stage. We must turn the entire territory of the Far East into a hub for high-tech projects. It is a vast territory with a sparse population and large areas where people can be employed. We must use modern methods for the development of this territory. National projects to ensure the country’s technological leadership have already been launched. On the basis of each of these, I instruct the Government to prepare and approve an appropriate development programme for the Far East and the Arctic by the end of the year. For a technological breakthrough, a genuinely bold approach to regulation and the legal framework for business operations is required. These must give the green light to innovation, stimulate the development of cutting-edge solutions, and facilitate their implementation in pilot and subsequently serial production, as well as in the social sphere and everyday life. For instance, an experimental legal regime is already in effect on Sakhalin. It allows for the accelerated testing of unmanned technologies. I instruct the Government to create conditions for their widespread application on agricultural lands, in environmental protection and natural resource management, as well as at industrial and logistics sites. Why should unmanned technology not be developed in such areas? There are none of the risks that might arise in densely populated regions of the country. Moreover, life itself demands the use of such technologies. Take, for example, forest fires that break out hundreds of kilometres away from the centres responsible for responding to them. Unmanned technology is perfectly suited for use in these vast areas. There are other opportunities for applying modern technologies across these vast territories. This is precisely where they should be deployed. However, this requires a corresponding workforce. What must be done to ensure such a workforce? Conditions must be created so that people can live here, so that they want to live here. Social infrastructure must be developed, cultural facilities must be enhanced, and so on. Otherwise, there will be no workforce, and consequently, there will be no people capable of advancing these technologies. This is a comprehensive task. It is evident that such solutions will be in demand not only on Sakhalin but also in other regions of the Far East, including the Amur Region, the Trans-Baikal Territory, Chukotka, and so on. In this regard, I consider it possible to extend the experimental legal regime for unmanned systems to all Far Eastern regions and expand it primarily to include such areas as the use of digital platforms, artificial intelligence, and data exchange. In June, at the St Petersburg Economic Forum, I spoke about the importance of leveraging the advantages of electronic marketplaces. Within the framework of the experimental legal regime, I propose utilising the infrastructure of domestic information platforms for state and municipal procurement in the field of education. There is more to it. The Russian Far East must become an advanced digital development region, especially in data circulation. Of course, this circulation should take into account matters of confidentiality and security. We talk about this all the time. We will definitely revisit this topic at the artificial intelligence forum, which will take place closer to the year end. I look forward to the Government preparing corresponding proposals. Next up, to develop and master technologies and to establish modern production facilities, at least 100 industrial, business and technology parks with the proper areas and utilities will have become operational in Russia by 2030. At least ten such parks will need to be created in the Russian Far East and the Arctic regions. I am confident that their state-of-the-art infrastructure and capabilities will be popular with the start-up companies that are implementing promising projects and, among other things, planning to manufacture products that are designed to replace foreign analogues, including construction materials, and medical and transport equipment, to name a few. In order to promote the development of domestic production facilities, conditions must be met for a wider use of the so-called offset contracts, when investments in new factories, workshops, or enterprises are guaranteed by state orders. It is likewise important to expand the practice of interregional offset contracts, under which production facilities open in one constituent entity of the Federation, and products manufactured under guaranteed orders are shipped to more than one region. Financing innovative ideas and technological projects is a separate issue. Private investors and venture investment have a greater role to play under these arrangements than the state. The Voskhod Fund, which has supported about 40 companies in robotics, medicine, and space technologies, is a compelling example to back up this point. I am asking our colleagues from the Government to carefully review the experience of this Fund and to help scale up its activities to include our technological leadership projects. Please focus on this. In general, I believe a transparent, modern, and effective financial ecosystem must be created in the Far East. The Eastern Exchange, which is, for all intents and purposes, a Far Eastern stock exchange, is operational. I suggest working out plans for further expanding it, including financial channels, regulatory framework, and incentives for placing corporate shares. Colleagues, developing the Far East and the Arctic, and building the economy of the future should improve the well-being of the people, increase their incomes, and lead to structural changes in employment in favour of high-skilled and well-paying jobs. This is the underlying logic and the core meaning of the strategy that we are implementing in these regions and throughout the country. To reiterate, the Russian economy must become an economy of high wages. This is not an empty phrase, not some kind of populist rhetoric. There is economic sense to it. Over the past ten years, the average salary in the Far East has increased by 2.5 times. As of the end of last year, it exceeded 100,000 rubles per month in nominal value. The unemployment rate in the region went down from 7 percent to 2.4 percent. The poverty rate is down across Far Eastern constituent entities of the Federation. Indeed, in most of them it is still higher than the national average, and there is room for improvement. However, overall, I emphasise, the dynamics are good and positive. On average, the poverty level in Russia decreased from 11.3 percent to 7.2 percent from 2014 to 2024. Among the Far Eastern regions, poverty is below the national average in some regions, namely, 5.3 percent on Sakhalin, 5.9 percent in the Magadan Region, and 4.4 percent in Chukotka. We remember how, amid economic headwinds and challenges in the social sphere in the late 1990s, people began to leave the Far East. It was a truly threatening trend, and reversing it was a challenge. But we are getting there. Gradually, we are getting there. I will give you some telling figures. Since 2014, the migration outflow in the Far East amounted to 211,000 people over five years, but it decreased to 109,000 people in the next five years, which is also a lot. But it was down almost by half. Moreover, 2024 saw a migration influx, albeit a small one at 24,000 people. Not many, indeed, but the very fact of trend reversing was a major achievement. Particularly important is the fact that young people from all over the country headed to the Far East. Since 2015, an influx of young people aged 20 to 24 has been noted for nine years in a row. Last year alone, it more than doubled compared to the year before that. This means that you can go there to get an interesting profession, find a well-paying job, settle down, solve housing issues, start a family, and raise children. The future of our country is being created in the Far East. Young people sense it, see it, and react accordingly. We will continue to improve the system of general and higher education in the region, encouraging it to adjust to the personnel demands of enterprises and organisations, and to take into account potential changes in the employment market due to the development of new forward-looking economic sectors. We have agreed to open university campuses in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Yakutsk, Khabarovsk, Blagoveshchensk, Ulan-Ude and Chita, to build the second phase of the Far Eastern Federal University campus and to establish world-class campuses in the Arctic, namely Murmansk and Arkhangelsk. In other words, we will create all the necessary conditions for receiving a quality modern education. Of course, it is necessary to support not only those who plan to move to the region but also those who were born and are living and working here, making the Far East and consequently, the whole of Russia stronger and better. We must ensure a sustainable improvement in the standards of living for people and families in the Far East. This is a crucial aspect and the basis for creating an economy of the future. Regarding housing affordability, urban development, the environment and the social sphere, the standards in the Far Eastern regions must rise above the country’s average within a decade. As you know, master plans for 22 Far Eastern cities and agglomerations have been prepared with this aim in view. They include the economic development of residential areas and are designed to create a modern and truly comfortable living environment, with renovated housing and utilities, developed public spaces, parks, boulevards, children’s playgrounds and sports grounds, and a modernised social sphere. These master plans are being implemented. To date, over 160 facilities have been built in accordance with them, including an embankment and a children’s technology park in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, a stadium in Ulan-Ude, and a roofed skating rink in Nakhodka. A shipyard has been modernised, an embankment has been built and a park has been laid out in Yakutsk. The construction of the Kamchatka Region Hospital has been completed. It is clear that the successful implementation of these master plans depends on interaction between local authorities, including proper regard for governance elements in the urban agglomerations that comprise several municipal areas. I would like to ask the Government, working jointly with local colleagues, to test the mechanisms of such interaction in the Vladivostok City Agglomeration, with the results of this experience formalised by 2030. By the end of this decade, within the framework of the Far Eastern and Arctic master plans, more than 600 facilities are to be put into service. In their development, it is important to apply advanced solutions, both in design and in construction. Next, for the financing of the master plans, we have agreed to create special sections in the national projects specifically dedicated to the Far East and the Arctic, and to allocate 5 percent of the expenditures of relevant state programmes in the social sphere, infrastructure and other areas to master plan initiatives. I ask the Ministry of Finance to note that these decisions have been made. Yes, there is work to be done, and all of these programmes need to be carefully reviewed. But I ask that 5 percent be allocated here unconditionally, to address the tasks facing the region. In addition, at the last Forum, I instructed that a separate limit of treasury infrastructure loans be allocated for the master plans of Far Eastern and Arctic cities. By 2030, 100 billion rubles will be directed to these purposes, primarily for the construction and upgrading of infrastructure. Projects from the regions are already being selected locally and reviewed by the Government. I want to emphasise that resources for them are allocated to the Far Eastern regions in addition to the existing instruments of the so-called infrastructure menu. These include funds from the National Wealth Fund, the issuance of infrastructure bonds, and financing under the Modernisation of Utilities Infrastructure and Housing federal projects. All of this is an important contribution to the development of housing construction in the Far East and to improving housing availability for Far Eastern families. If in 2015 the region completed the construction of 2.9 million square metres of housing, last year the figure stood at 4.7 million. The Far Eastern Quarter mechanism, with incentives for developers, played a role here. And, of course, the Far Eastern and Arctic mortgage programme with a low rate of 2 percent – originally covering young families, families with children, and participants in the Far Eastern and Arctic Hectare programmes – also contributed. More than 165,000 loans have already been issued under this mortgage programme. We have extended it until 2030, and expanded it to include participants in the special military operation, employees of defence industry enterprises, doctors, and education workers. Specific age limits have been applied to these categories. I would like to make an important clarification. The opportunity to receive a mortgage at a 2 percent rate should be available not only to teachers, but, I emphasise, to all employees of state and municipal educational institutions in the Far East and the Arctic. I ask the Government to make the necessary amendments to the regulatory framework. These are funds that, even under current conditions, are quite manageable, and I ask that this be done. I also propose using the Far Eastern and Arctic mortgage programme for the secondary housing market as well, not just primary market, but specifically in those urban areas without blocks of flats, where developers do not offer anything. Of course, the year of the construction and the condition of the buildings will need to be assessed before a mortgage loan is issued. I am asking our colleagues to have a careful look into that. We have discussed this in relation to other regions. Subsidised arrangements must definitely be allowed on the secondary market. Well, what if no new housing is built there? Please work it through. This decision must be made. The housing issue is the key to improving the demographic situation. Families in the Far East are paid one million rubles for the third baby, rather than 450,000 rubles as in the rest of the country, which makes perfect sense. All of that together produces the result that I just talked about. Young people are coming here. Initially, this support mechanism was introduced in the Primorye Territory, and then in seven more regions. Twenty-five percent more third and subsequent babies are born into Far Eastern families than the national average. It is also a telling indicator. Since this payment of one million rubles is used to pay off mortgage loans, I think the right thing to do is to make the Far Eastern and Arctic mortgage programme available to all families in the region with three or more children. To reiterate, to all large families, regardless of the age of the parents. We had a cap of 35 years. But now women give birth at 35, 40, and even older. God bless them. The more babies we have, the better. Of course, Far Eastern families, families with children should be provided with social facilities such as outpatient clinics, kindergartens, schools, and hospitals. Building such facilities at the expense of businesses, or more precisely, strategic partners that carry out major investment projects and conduct large-scale production operations in a particular population centre is a popular approach in remote Far Eastern urban and rural areas. As a reminder, last year we agreed to create such a convenient mechanism, so that businesses could use their own funds to build social facilities when they are building their production facilities. They would build social facilities concurrently and then transfer them to regional or municipal authorities and have their expenses reimbursed. How will the reimbursement work? By way of future tax deductions when an enterprise becomes operational. I would like the Government and the VEB.RF corporation – Mr Shuvalov, please note that – launch this tool widely and use budget resources that are set aside to cover investment tax deductions. Without a doubt, public-private partnerships and concessions should be used widely as well. In this regard, I count on VEB’s energetic participation in further improving concession and PPP mechanisms. I am talking about creating a national standard and financing model in this area, which should ensure transparency and a common understanding of the terms of public/private partnership in socially important projects. This is a simple mechanism, and there is nothing important here. The budget will not be overly burdened by it. It is a quite feasible project. Colleagues, The Russian Far East and the Asia-Pacific region as a whole is an area of dynamic change and burgeoning growth. We should maintain high rates of positive change, improve the structure of the domestic economy, increase the technological efficiency of all spheres of life, and more effectively use the resource, production, logistics, and research potential that the Far Eastern regions and the country as a whole possess. To be able to do this, we need to widely implement bold innovative solutions. All of that must be reflected in the regulatory framework and business environment, as we continue addressing issues that define the quality of life of our citizens. All of that should be done in a timely manner. Such approaches have proven themselves in the Far East and the Arctic. We will continue developing them and adjusting them to the needs of people and the needs of businesses and regions. We will use them to ensure Russia’s national interests. Of course, the success of this work largely relies on a systematic and comprehensive approach, the ability to look forward, to see prospects, to set big goals, and to set the plans to achieve them. Based on the outcomes of this forum, I am asking the Government to approve a long-term Strategy for the Development of the Far Eastern Federal District to 2036. Please do that within the next 12 months. Much is being done in the Far East and the Arctic, and a lot more will need to be accomplished. Importantly, and I want our foreign friends to hear me, we are open to everyone who is willing to take part in this work. Thank you for your attention. Thank you. |
| 6 Social Policy and Demographics | |
| Правительстве. Подчеркну: ресурсы на них выделяются дальневосточным регионам в дополнение к действующим инструментам так называемого инфраструктурного меню. А это средства Фонда национального благосостояния, выпуск инфраструктурных облигаций, финансирование в рамках федеральных проектов «Модернизация коммунальной инфраструктуры» и «Жильё». Всё это важный вклад в развитие жилищного строительства на Дальнем Востоке, в повышение доступности жилья для семей дальневосточников. Если в 2015 году в регионе было введено 2,9 миллиона квадратных метров жилья, то в прошлом году – уже 4,7 миллиона. Здесь сыграл свою роль механизм «Дальневосточного квартала» с льготами для застройщиков. И конечно, программа дальневосточной и арктической ипотеки с низкой ставкой в два процента, которая изначально охватывала молодые семьи, семьи с детьми, участников программ «Дальневосточный» и «Арктический гектар». По этой ипотечной программе уже выдано более 165 тысяч кредитов. Мы продлили её до 2030 года, распространили на участников специальной военной операции, сотрудников предприятий ОПК, врачей, а также работников сферы образования. К этим категориям были обращены и определённые возрастные ограничения. Здесь сделаю важное уточнение: возможность получить ипотеку по ставке в два процента должны иметь не только учителя, но, подчеркну, все работники государственных и муниципальных образовательных учреждений Дальнего Востока и Арктики. Прошу Правительство внести соответствующие поправки в нормативную базу. Это деньги, которые даже в сегодняшних условиях вполне подъёмные, прошу это сделать. Также предлагаю использовать дальневосточную и арктическую ипотеку не только на первичном, но и на вторичном рынке жилья. Но именно в тех городах, где пока не возводятся многоквартирные дома. И где просто нет предложений от застройщиков. Конечно, при этом нужно будет учесть и годы постройки, и состояние домов, где приобретается жильё в ипотеку. Прошу коллег внимательно отработать эту тему. Мы уже говорили об этом применительно к другим регионам. На вторичном рынке, здесь во всяком случае, точно нужно разрешать эту работу по этим льготным нормативам. Ну, если не строится там новое жильё, что делать? Прошу отработать, и это решение должно быть принято. Жилищный вопрос – один из ключевых для улучшения демографической ситуации. На Дальнем Востоке действует увеличенная выплата при рождении в семье третьего ребёнка. Она составляет не 450 тысяч рублей, как по всей стране, а один миллион рублей. И это обоснованно. Всё это в комплексе даёт тот результат, о котором я только что говорил. Молодые люди едут сюда. Сначала такой инструмент поддержки был введён в Приморье, а затем ещё в семи регионах. И сейчас рождаемость третьих и последующих детей в семьях дальневосточников примерно на четверть выше, чем в среднем по России. Тоже показатель. Поскольку эта выплата в 1 миллион рублей направляется на выплату ипотечного кредита, считаю правильным сделать дальневосточную и арктическую ипотеку доступной для всех семей в регионе, которые воспитывают трёх и более детей. |
Full house translation — pending review Правительстве. Подчеркну: resources for them are allocated to the Far Eastern regions in addition to the existing instruments of the so-called infrastructure menu. These are National Wealth Fund resources, infrastructure bond issues, and financing under the federal projects “Modernization of Utility Infrastructure” and “Housing.” All this is an important contribution to developing housing construction in the Far East and making housing more affordable for Far Eastern families. While 2.9 million square meters of housing were commissioned in the region in 2015, last year the figure was already 4.7 million. The Far Eastern Quarter mechanism, with incentives for developers, played its part here. And, of course, the Far Eastern and Arctic mortgage program with its low rate of two percent, which initially covered young families, families with children, and participants in the Far Eastern Hectare and Arctic Hectare programs. More than 165 thousand loans have already been issued under this mortgage program. We have extended it until 2030 and expanded it to participants in the special military operation, employees of defense-industry enterprises, doctors and education workers. Certain age restrictions were also applied to these categories. Here I will make an important clarification: not only teachers but, I emphasize, all employees of state and municipal educational institutions in the Far East and the Arctic should have the opportunity to obtain a mortgage at a rate of two percent. I ask the Government to make the corresponding amendments to the regulatory framework. This is money that is quite affordable even under today’s conditions; please do this. I also propose using the Far Eastern and Arctic mortgage not only in the primary housing market but also in the secondary market. But specifically in those cities where apartment buildings are not yet being built. And where developers simply have nothing on offer. Of course, account will need to be taken of both the construction year and condition of the buildings in which housing is purchased with a mortgage. I ask colleagues to work through this subject carefully. We have already discussed it with regard to other regions. In the secondary market, at least here, we certainly need to allow this activity under these preferential rules. Well, if no new housing is being built there, what can be done? Please work through it, and this decision must be made. Housing is one of the key issues in improving the demographic situation. In the Far East, there is an increased payment when a third child is born into a family. It is not 450 thousand rubles, as across the country, but one million rubles. And this is justified. All of this together produces the result I have just spoken about. Young people are coming here. This support instrument was first introduced in Primorye, then in seven more regions. And now the birth rate for third and subsequent children in Far Eastern families is about a quarter higher than the Russian average. That too is an indicator. Since this payment of 1 million rubles goes toward paying off a mortgage loan, I consider it right to make the Far Eastern and Arctic mortgage available to all families in the region raising three or more children. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you very much, Mr Putin. I have a quick question to follow up on that. The Far East will be just fine near-term and long-term as well. We can breathe a sigh of relief. Traditionally, we have two main economic forums in Russia: the Far Eastern Forum, which has always been oriented towards Asia and the Pacific region, and the St Petersburg Forum, which, I think, has always served as a platform, or a small window to Europe. If you look at our main symbol – the double-headed eagle – it also looks to the West and to the East. You had quite a fulfilling trip to China for the SCO summit. One can get an impression that the eagle is now looking to the East with its both heads. A group photo of you, Xi Jinping, and Narendra Modi has made it to tabloids around the world. It was dubbed a new alliance of the elephant, the dragon and the bear. My question is: what place does the bear have in this alliance? What is it in this group? |
| Подчеркну: для всех многодетных семей, независимо от возраста родителей. У нас там было ограничение – 35 лет. Но сейчас женщины рожают и в 35, и в 40, и побольше. Дай бог здоровья. Чем больше у нас малышей – тем лучше. Конечно, семьи дальневосточников, семьи с детьми должны быть обеспечены социальными объектами: поликлиники, детские сады, школы, больницы. На Дальнем Востоке, в отдалённых городах и посёлках востребован подход, когда такие объекты строятся за счёт бизнеса, а точнее стратегического партнёра, который реализует крупные инвестпроекты, ведёт масштабное производство в том или ином населённом пункте. |
Full house translation — pending review Подчеркну: for all families with many children, regardless of the parents' age. We had an age limit there of 35. But women now give birth at 35, at 40 and older. God grant them good health. The more little ones we have, the better. Of course, families in the Far East, families with children, must be provided with social facilities: outpatient clinics, kindergartens, schools and hospitals. In the Far East, in remote towns and settlements, there is a need for an approach whereby such facilities are built at the expense of business, or, more precisely, a strategic partner implementing major investment projects and conducting large-scale production in a particular locality. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: A bear is a bear. |
| Напомню: ещё в прошлом году мы договорились создать такой удобный механизм, чтобы бизнес мог на свои средства на первом этапе строить социальные объекты, когда строит предприятие – социальные объекты параллельно, и передавать их региону или муниципалитету, но с возмещением своих затрат. С возмещением – как? Через отчисления от будущих налогов при работающем предприятии. Обращаю внимание Правительства: нужно вместе с корпорацией «ВЭБ.РФ» – Игорь Иванович, обращаю Ваше внимание на это – широко запустить этот инструмент. В том числе задействовать ресурсы бюджета, предусмотренные на инвестиционный налоговый вычет. И конечно, активно использовать институт государственно-частного партнёрства и концессий. В этой связи рассчитываю на деятельное участие ВЭБа в дальнейшем совершенствовании механизмов концессий и ГЧП. Имею в виду создание национального стандарта и модели финансирования в этой сфере, что должно обеспечить прозрачность и общее понимание условий партнёрства государства и бизнеса в общественно значимых проектах. Механизм простой, ничего здесь важного нет. И не такая уж будет большая нагрузка на бюджет. Вполне реализуемая вещь. Уважаемые коллеги! Дальний Восток России, Азиатско-Тихоокеанский регион в целом – это территория динамичных изменений, бурного развития. И мы должны поддерживать высокие темпы позитивных перемен, улучшать структуру отечественной экономики, повышать технологичность всех сфер жизни, более эффективно использовать ресурсный, производственный, логистический, научный потенциал, которым обладают наши дальневосточные регионы и страна в целом. Для этого нужно активно пробовать, широко внедрять смелые, новаторские решения. В нормативно-правовой базе, в условиях работы бизнеса, в решении задач, которые определяют качество жизни наших граждан, нужно всё это отражать, и делать это своевременно. Такие подходы уже зарекомендовали себя здесь, на Дальнем Востоке, в Арктике. Мы будем и дальше их развивать, настраивать на запросы людей, на потребности бизнеса и регионов. На обеспечение национальных интересов России. Конечно, в этой работе важен системный, комплексный подход, способность смотреть вперёд, видеть перспективы, ставить большие цели и просчитывать планы по их достижению. Поэтому по итогам нынешнего форума прошу Правительство утвердить долгосрочную Стратегию развития Дальневосточного федерального округа до 2036 года. Сделать это прошу в течение года. Работа здесь, на Дальнем Востоке и Арктике, ведётся большая и предстоит большая. И хочу подчеркнуть, особенно обращаясь к нашим иностранным друзьям, мы, уважаемые коллеги, открыты для всех, кто готов в этой работе участвовать. Благодарю вас за внимание. Спасибо. |
Full house translation — pending review Напомню: back last year we agreed to create a convenient mechanism enabling businesses, at the first stage, to build social facilities with their own funds alongside construction of an enterprise, and transfer them to the region or municipality, but with reimbursement of their costs. Reimbursement—how? Through deductions from future taxes once the enterprise is operating. I draw the Government’s attention to this: together with VEB.RF Corporation—Igor Ivanovich, I draw your attention to this—we need to launch this instrument widely. This includes using budget resources allocated for the investment tax deduction. And, of course, actively using public-private partnerships and concessions. In this connection, I count on VEB’s active participation in further improving concession and PPP mechanisms. I mean creating a national standard and financing model in this area, which should ensure transparency and a shared understanding of the terms of partnership between the state and business in socially significant projects. The mechanism is simple; there is nothing important here. And it will not place such a large burden on the budget. It is quite feasible. Colleagues! Russia’s Far East and the Asia-Pacific region as a whole are a territory of dynamic change and rapid development. And we must sustain high rates of positive change, improve the structure of the domestic economy, increase the technological sophistication of all areas of life and make more effective use of the resource, production, logistics and scientific potential possessed by our Far Eastern regions and the country as a whole. To do this, we need to actively try out and widely introduce bold, innovative solutions. All this must be reflected in the regulatory and legal framework, in business operating conditions and in addressing the tasks that determine our citizens’ quality of life, and this must be done promptly. Such approaches have already proved themselves here in the Far East and the Arctic. We will continue developing them, adapting them to people’s needs, to the requirements of business and the regions. To ensuring Russia’s national interests. Of course, this work requires a systematic, comprehensive approach, an ability to look ahead, see prospects, set major goals and work out plans to achieve them. Therefore, following this forum, I ask the Government to approve a long-term Development Strategy for the Far Eastern Federal District through 2036. I ask that this be done within a year. A great deal of work is being done here in the Far East and the Arctic, and a great deal lies ahead. And I want to emphasize, particularly addressing our foreign friends: colleagues, we are open to everyone ready to participate in this work. Thank you for your attention. Thank you. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: But bear is a fairly tough animal, Mr Putin. |
| М.Рыбакова: Спасибо большое, Владимир Владимирович. У меня сразу по следам будет небольшой вопрос. С ближайшим будущим и долгосрочным Дальнего Востока всё в порядке, можно выдохнуть спокойно. Вообще у нас как-то традиционно так сложилось, что в России два главных экономических форума – это Дальневосточный форум, он был всегда ориентирован на Азию, на Тихоокеанский регион, и Петербургский форум, который, как мне кажется, всегда служил площадкой, был небольшим окном в Европу. И так символично, если посмотреть на наш главный символ – двуглавый орел – он тоже смотрит на Запад и на Восток. У Вас была достаточно яркая поездка сейчас в Китай на саммит ШОС. Складывается такое впечатление, что орёл начинает смотреть своими обеими головами в одну сторону, в сторону Востока. Все мировые таблоиды облетела фотография, где Вы вместе с господином Си Цзиньпином, вместе с господином Нарендрой Моди. И вообще, символично сказали о том, что это новый союз «слона, дракона и медведя». У меня вопрос: а какое место медведь в этом союзе занимает? Он кто там? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you very much, Vladimir Vladimirovich. I have a short follow-up question straight away. Everything is fine with the Far East's immediate and long-term future; we can breathe easy. Generally, it has somehow become a tradition that Russia has two main economic forums: the Far Eastern Forum, which has always been oriented toward Asia and the Pacific region, and the St Petersburg Forum, which, it seems to me, has always served as a platform, a small window into Europe. And it is symbolic if we look at our main symbol, the double-headed eagle: it too looks West and East. You have just had quite a striking trip to China for the SCO summit. One gets the impression that the eagle is beginning to look with both its heads in one direction, toward the East. A photograph of you together with Mr Xi Jinping and Mr Narendra Modi appeared in tabloids worldwide. And, in general, it was described symbolically as a new alliance of the "elephant, dragon and bear". My question is: what place does the bear occupy in this alliance? Who is it there? |
| В.Путин: Медведь – он и есть медведь. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: A bear is a bear. |
| М.Рыбакова: Но он достаточно суров, Владимир Владимирович. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: But the bear is quite fierce, Vladimir Vladimirovich. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Alright, let us say the eagle is looking southeast. |
| В.Путин: Вы сейчас сказали про то, что наш орёл куда-то смотрит: Восток, Запад. Есть ещё и Юг. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: You just said that our eagle is looking somewhere: East, West. There is also the South. |
| М.Рыбакова: Хорошо, он смотрит юго-восточнее – вот так назовём. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: All right, it is looking more toward the southeast—let us put it that way. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Continuing with the theme of returns: Overall, it seems to me that there is a global trend towards protectionism. In other words, it appears that many countries prefer focusing inward, supporting domestic business rather than attracting external competitors. I want to emphasise that this is just my observation and my opinion – I am not an economist and would like to hear your opinion. What do you think: is this policy, |
| 7 Geopolitical Orientation and Multipolar World Order | |
| В.Путин: Мы же обсуждали с коллегами многократно эту тему. Я говорил, что наше взаимодействие, расширение нашего взаимодействия и совместной работы с нашими друзьями в Азиатско-Тихоокеанском регионе, в Глобальном Юге, не связано с текущей политической конъюнктурой вообще. Потому что, посмотрите, мы с Председателем Си Цзиньпином, допустим, начали такую совместную большую работу 20 лет назад. Это не связано с текущей конъюнктурой. Это связано со взаимными национальными интересами. Наши экономики дополняют друг друга, мы соседи, у нас много общих интересов, общие подходы, общие ценности есть – традиционные, хочу подчеркнуть. Мы в России понимали, как развивается мировая экономика. А как она развивается? Всему миру хорошо известно: она развивается опережающими темпами. Это новые области и точки роста мировой экономики. И естественным образом мы ориентируемся на это, тем более что у нас очень добрые, добрососедские отношения со многими странами: и с Китайской Народной Республикой, и с Индией, с той же Индонезией. Обращаю внимание, как развиваются страны: в Индонезии уже почти 300 миллионов человек. Это какой рынок-то! А есть небольшие страны, но быстро развивающиеся, такие как Малайзия, Таиланд, Вьетнам, с которыми у нас особые отношения на протяжении десятилетий. Почему же нам всё это не использовать? Это естественно. Это не разворот куда-то – это просто ответ на объективные процессы, происходящие в мире и в мировой экономике. Но мы никогда не отказывались от сотрудничества с теми, кто хочет работать с нами, скажем, в других странах, в других азиатских странах. Сейчас просто не хочу никого ставить в какое-то сложное, неловкое положение. Никуда не уходили с нашего рынка компании некоторых стран, у которых в политическом плане, исходя из текущей ситуации, вроде как есть проблемы, но они работают, никуда не ушли, больше того – ещё хотят и расширять сотрудничество. По политическим соображениям многие европейские компании ушли – это да, с убытками для себя. Мы же знаем, у нас контакты есть, многие ждут не дождутся, пока всякие ограничения политического характера отпадут, и в любую секунду хотели бы возвратиться. Мы же ни от кого не отворачиваемся. Вот Вы сказали, мы куда-то смотрим. Никуда мы [не смотрим]… У нас стабильная, предсказуемая и внешняя политика, и экономическая политика. Кстати говоря, на мой взгляд, это является нашим объективно конкурентным преимуществом, потому что эта стабильность имеет значение для бизнеса, если мы сейчас говорим о работе с бизнесом. Поэтому мы ни от кого не отворачивались, мы никого не выгоняли. Кто хочет, всегда может вернуться, но исходя из тех условий, которые складываются на данный момент времени. А вообще-то о взаимодействии между драконом и слоном это же не я сказал – это Председатель Си Цзиньпин сказал, потом уже добавили и медведя. Медведь, конечно, символ России, но мы на Дальнем Востоке находимся: самый большой тигр в мире, кстати, уссурийский – российский тигр. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: We have discussed this topic with colleagues many times, after all. I said that our interaction, the expansion of our interaction and joint work with our friends in the Asia-Pacific region, in the Global South, is not connected with the current political conjuncture at all. Because, look, we began such joint large work with Chairman Xi Jinping, say, 20 years ago. This is not connected with the current conjuncture. It is connected with mutual national interests. Our economies complement each other; we are neighbors; we have many common interests; there are common approaches, common values — traditional ones, I want to emphasize. In Russia we understood how the world economy is developing. And how is it developing? It is well known to the whole world: it is developing at outpacing rates. These are new areas and points of growth of the world economy. And in a natural way we orient ourselves on this, all the more so since we have very kind, good-neighborly relations with many countries: both with the People's Republic of China and with India, with that same Indonesia. I draw attention to how countries are developing: in Indonesia there are already almost 300 million people. What a market that is! And there are small countries, but fast-developing ones, such as Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, with which we have had special relations over the decades. Why should we not use all this? This is natural. This is not a turn somewhere — it is simply an answer to the objective processes taking place in the world and in the world economy. But we have never refused cooperation with those who want to work with us, say, in other countries, in other Asian countries. I simply do not want now to put anyone in some difficult, awkward position. Companies of some countries, which in the political plane, proceeding from the current situation, seem to have problems, have not gone anywhere from our market; they work, they have not gone anywhere; more than that, they also want to expand cooperation. For political considerations many European companies left — that is so, with losses for themselves. We know; we have contacts; many can hardly wait until all sorts of restrictions of a political character fall away, and at any second they would like to return. We do not turn away from anyone, after all. You said we are looking somewhere. We [are not looking] anywhere… We have a stable, predictable foreign policy and economic policy. By the way, in my view this is our objectively competitive advantage, because this stability matters for business, if we are now speaking of work with business. So we have not turned away from anyone; we have not driven anyone out. Whoever wants to can always return, but proceeding from the conditions that are taking shape at the given moment. And in general, about the interaction between the dragon and the elephant, it was not I who said this — Chairman Xi Jinping said it, and then they added the bear too. The bear is of course a symbol of Russia, but we are in the Far East: the largest tiger in the world, by the way, the Ussuri tiger, is a Russian tiger. |
| М.Рыбакова: Продолжаю тему возвращений. В целом есть общемировой тренд, мне кажется, на протекционизм. То есть как будто бы замкнуться внутри, помогать развиваться бизнесу внутри страны сейчас интереснее, чем привлекать каких-то внешних конкурентов. Но это опять же моё мнение, наблюдение. Я не экономист, ещё раз хочу это уточнить. Как Вам кажется: такая политика, которая сейчас, мне кажется, в некоторых странах довольно активно себя проявляет, – это во благо или всё-таки нет? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Continuing the subject of returns. In general, there is a worldwide trend toward protectionism, it seems to me. In other words, turning inward and helping businesses develop inside the country seems more appealing now than attracting outside competitors. But again, that is my opinion, my observation. I am not an economist; I want to make that clear once again. What do you think: is this policy, which seems to me to be manifesting itself quite actively in some countries now, beneficial, or is it not after all? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. As they say in such cases – thank you for your support. |
| В.Путин: Это во вред. Во вред и тем, кто её применяет, и во вред мировой экономике и международной торговле. Это ведёт к сепаратизму – региональному и страновому. Ничего здесь хорошего не будет для тех, кто пытается проводить такую политику, потому что современный мир очень сильно взаимосвязан, исходя из возможностей и исходя из технологического развития. Замкнуться в какой-то собственной национальной скорлупе очень сложно и вредно, потому что это будет вести к понижению конкурентоспособности. Мы исходим из того, что открыты к сотрудничеству со всеми странами мира, но, конечно, прежде всего с теми, кто хочет с нами работать, с нашими друзьями. Но мы не отгораживаемся ни от кого, и, думаю, подавляющее большинство, если не все сидящие в этом зале, со мной согласятся: такая открытость выгодна всем, кто придерживается такой точки зрения и такой политики. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: It is harmful. Harmful both to those who apply it and to the world economy and international trade. It leads to separatism, both regional and national. Nothing good will come of this for those who try to pursue such a policy, because the modern world is very closely interconnected in terms of capabilities and technological development. Shutting oneself inside some national shell of one's own is very difficult and harmful, because it will lead to reduced competitiveness. Our position is that we are open to cooperation with all countries of the world, but, of course, above all with those who want to work with us, with our friends. But we are not shutting ourselves off from anyone, and I think the overwhelming majority, if not everyone sitting in this hall, will agree with me: such openness benefits everyone who holds this view and pursues this policy. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Exactly. Thank you for your support. Next, I would like to turn it over to the Prime Minister of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Mr Sonexay Siphandone, please come up to the podium. You have the floor. Prime Minister of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic Sonexay Siphandone (retranslated): Your Excellency Mr Putin, President of the Russian Federation. Ladies and gentlemen. It is a genuine joy and honour for me to participate in this forum. I was very happy to receive an invitation from President Putin and to come to Vladivostok. This is my first time in this city. On behalf of the Government and the people of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to His Excellency President Putin and the Government of the Russian Federation for the warm welcome extended to me and our delegation. I would also like to thank you for the excellent organisation of the 10 th Eastern Economic Forum. I am absolutely sure that this forum is an important driving force in promoting cooperation in the sphere of economy, social development, and cultural interaction. This forum contributes to improving the quality of life in the Russian Far East and in the Asia-Pacific region as a whole. Our meeting today clearly demonstrates Russia’s leading role as it strives to promote international cooperation within bilateral and multilateral formats. This also applies to political and economic interaction, as well as to promoting innovative technologies and designs. Today, we have found ourselves in an extremely difficult situation, where changes in the international arena are absolutely unpredictable due to the geopolitical situation, with existing problems, primarily caused by protectionist measures that some countries are introducing in an attempt to compete and even hinder the growth, accelerated growth of other countries. This is aggravated by a number of other problems, including natural disasters, climate change, exceedingly rapid development of modern technologies, and innovative technological solutions, especially the introduction of artificial intelligence. We are facing the problem of instability on the energy and raw materials markets. Food also poses certain problems. We are witnessing crises in this area as well. These problems must be solved in order to ensure global peace, prosperity and stability now and in the future. In order to solve all these problems, we must cooperate. We must use the existing consultative, multilateral and bilateral mechanisms that are based on the principles of mutual respect and compliance with international law. This is an important mechanism that often requires certain reforms in order to properly reflect the current situation and to meet its challenges. The theme of this year’s forum is “cooperation for peace and prosperity.” This choice is highly relevant in today’s circumstances, because without peace, prosperity cannot be achieved. Conversely, without prosperity, peace cannot be truly sustainable or lasting. That is why we must work together to ensure that the concepts of prosperity and peace go hand in hand. Your Excellency, ladies and gentlemen, The Far East brings together a number of countries with enormous potential. We can see that the Russian Federation plays a key role as a driving force for strengthening cooperation in this region, both in bilateral and multilateral formats. Above all, associations such as BRICS, the Asia-Europe cooperation framework, the SCO, and others contribute significantly to advancing regional economic cooperation. These formats are based on the principles of mutual respect and the independence of their members. Laos also seeks to promote cooperation within the framework of open and inclusive mechanisms. We believe that only through such cooperation can we find effective solutions to modern challenges. It is essential to make use of international mechanisms that continue to remain relevant in addressing these problems. For the Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, it is essential to create a more favourable economic environment for attracting investment and expanding trade. Among other measures, we are working to establish and develop special economic zones and industrial parks across the country. We have also eliminated unnecessary bureaucratic barriers in order to make the process of attracting direct foreign investment as comfortable and transparent as possible. We have also updated the investment law, introducing a number of provisions that make investing in our country more attractive to both domestic and international partners. Our focus is on the most promising sectors: agriculture, renewable energy, geological exploration, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, education, technology, services, tourism, transport, infrastructure projects, and logistics. I would also like to stress that Laos is the only ASEAN member state without access to the sea. This makes it especially important for us to maximise the advantages of our strategic geographical position. Our goal is to ensure connectivity through land transport routes and thereby contribute to the development of logistics across the region as a whole. Our government makes considerable investment in infrastructure and the construction of high-speed railroads across the entire country. We also continue to extend transport and logistics connectivity with friendly countries to become a regional hub for investment and trade. Tourism obviously plays a major role in that respect. It is thanks to such policy and measures that the Lao People’s Democratic Republic has earned trust and recognition at regional and international platforms. I would like to note that Laos held the 2024 ASEAN presidency during which we identified nine priority tracks. All of them concerned the promotion of greater connectivity and sustainability of the region built around ASEAN’s three major principles. We had a very fruitful ASEAN presidency, and we remain loyal to the declared principles, namely, the principle of ASEAN’s central role. Today we can safely say that ASEAN is a community which has proved its commitment to peace and regional cooperation, acting invariably in the spirit of mutual assistance, in accordance with the path ASEAN has chosen. Therefore, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic believes that enhancing ASEAN requires the promotion of economic cooperation and connectivity in the overall region. We will continue to augment regional integration and connectivity. Your Excellency, ladies and gentlemen, The Lao People’s Democratic Republic is open for cooperation with all countries to achieve the goals of promoting peace, stability, prosperity and wellbeing in the region and worldwide. It is in this spirit that I would like to invite you all to visit Laos so as to learn about our rich culture and beautiful nature as well as to see your potential in fostering cooperation and making investment in our country. Also, on behalf of the Government and the people of Laos, I wish every success to the 10 th Eastern Economic Forum here in Vladivostok. I hope it will remain a venue for free exchange of opinions, for cooperation and building a future where all countries have equal opportunities. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to President Putin, and thank and congratulate him on the successful holding of the forum. Your Excellency, ladies and gentlemen, I wish you all good health and successful performance of all your duties. Thank you for your attention. |
| М.Рыбакова: Спасибо. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you very much for your kind words. Thank you for the invitation, I will gladly accept it as I have never been to Laos. In addition to what you have told us now, I would like to separately discuss an amazing thing. You are now the biggest exporter of electrical power. You are even nicknamed as a Southeast Asia battery. How did you manage to increase it in such amounts so fast? Respectively, we may also learn on your example, the more so as Vladimir Putin said we must also build hydroelectric power stations and increase the fuel and energy complex in every possible way. I beg your pardon, we have technical issues with translation. Mr Putin, I will have to ask you then. Yesterday, you had a major meeting, where you discussed the fuel and energy complex in the Far East, and the importance of investing in expanding it. My main question is where will the money come from? We are talking enormous amounts of funds, the volumes are large, and the goals you have set are, let us say, quite serious. |
| В.Путин: Как в таких случаях говорят, спасибо за поддержку. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: As they say in such cases, thank you for the support. |
| М.Рыбакова: Спасибо за поддержку, да. Дальше я хочу передать слово Премьер-министру Лаосской Народно-Демократической Республики. Прошу подняться за трибуну господина Сонсая Сипхандона. Вам слово. С.Сипхандон (как переведено): Ваше Превосходительство Владимир Владимирович Путин, Президент Российской Федерации! Уважаемые гости! Дамы и господа! Для меня большая радость и честь участвовать в этом форуме. Я был очень рад получить приглашение от Президента Путина и приехать сюда, во Владивосток. Я приехал во Владивосток впервые. От лица Правительства и народа Лаосской Народно-Демократической Республики хотел бы выразить мою искреннюю благодарность Его Превосходительству Президенту Путину и Правительству Российской Федерации за тёплый приём, оказанный мне и нашей делегации. Также хотел бы поблагодарить за превосходную организацию Х Восточного экономического форума. Я абсолютно уверен, что сегодня этот форум является важной движущей силой в продвижении сотрудничества в сфере экономики, социального развития, а также культурного взаимодействия. Этот форум способствует улучшению качества жизни людей на российском Дальнем Востоке и в целом в Азиатско-Тихоокеанском регионе. Наша сегодняшняя встреча наглядно демонстрирует ведущую роль России в её стремлении к продвижению международного сотрудничества в рамках двусторонних и многосторонних форматов. Это касается и взаимодействия в политическом аспекте, экономическом, а также в продвижении новых технологий и разработок. Сегодня мы находимся в крайне сложной ситуации: изменения на мировой арене совершенно непредсказуемы именно в связи с геополитической ситуацией, с имеющимися проблемами, прежде всего обоснованными именно протекционистскими мерами, которые внедряют некоторые страны в их стремлении конкурировать и даже мешать развитию, ускоренному росту других стран. Усугубляется это и целым рядом других проблем: это природные катастрофы, изменение климата, очень быстрое развитие современных технологий, новых технологических решений, особенно внедрение искусственного интеллекта. Мы сталкиваемся с проблемой нестабильности на энергетических и сырьевых рынках. Продовольствие тоже сейчас является определённой проблемой. Мы наблюдаем кризисы и в этом направлении. Но именно все эти проблемы должны быть решены для того, чтобы обеспечить глобальный мир, процветание и стабильность на данный момент и на будущее. И для того, чтобы решить все эти проблемы, мы должны сотрудничать. Мы должны использовать имеющиеся консультационные, многосторонние и двусторонние механизмы, которые основаны на принципах взаимного уважения и соблюдения стандартов международного права. Безусловно, это важный механизм, который зачастую требует определённых реформ для того, чтобы адекватно отражать текущую ситуацию, соответствовать её вызовом. Тема форума этого года – это сотрудничество во имя мира и процветания. Выбор темы наиболее актуален, учитывая текущую ситуацию, потому что именно без мира мы не можем добиться процветания. Верно и обратное утверждение: без процветания мир никогда не будет устойчивым и продолжительным. Именно поэтому мы должны работать вместе для того, чтобы понятия процветания и мира шли рука об руку. Ваше Превосходительство! Дамы и господа! Регион Дальнего Востока объединяет целый ряд стран, у которых очень большой потенциал. Мы видим, что Российская Федерация выступает ключевой движущей силой для продвижения сотрудничества именно в этом регионе. Это касается и двусторонних, и многосторонних форматов. Прежде всего это такие объединения, как БРИКС, сотрудничество между Азией и Европой, такие форматы, как ШОС, и многие другие. Именно они способствуют продвижению сотрудничества в экономической сфере в этом регионе. Это те форматы, которые работают на принципах взаимного уважения и независимости своих членов. Лаос также стремится к сотрудничеству в рамках открытых механизмов. Мы видим, что именно в рамках такого сотрудничества мы можем найти решения для современных вызовов. Необходимо использовать международные механизмы, которые сохраняют свою актуальность для решения этих проблем. Для Правительства Лаосской Народно-Демократической Республики крайне важно работать над созданием более комфортной экономической среды для привлечения инвестиций и развития торговли. Помимо прочего мы намерены создавать и развивать специальные экономические зоны и промышленные парки по всей стране. Также мы смогли избавиться от каких-то излишних сложностей или волокиты для того, чтобы процесс привлечения прямых иностранных инвестиций был наиболее комфортным и прямолинейным. Мы также усовершенствовали закон о привлечении инвестиций. Именно этот закон предполагает целый ряд мер, которые сделают инвестиции в нашу страну более привлекательными как для внутренних инвесторов, так и международных. Мы концентрируемся на наиболее привлекательных секторах: это сельское хозяйство, возобновляемые источники энергии, геологоразведка, сельское хозяйство, обрабатывающая промышленность, фармацевтическая отрасль, образование, технологии, сектор услуг, конечно же, туризм, транспорт, инфраструктурные проекты, а также логистика. Также хотел бы отметить, что Лаос – это единственная страна – член АСЕАН, которая не имеет доступа к морю. Именно поэтому для нас очень важно выступать той страной, которая максимально использует своё стратегическое местоположение. Мы хотим обеспечить максимальную связанность через сухопутные маршруты и таким образом развивать логистику в регионе в целом. Наше Правительство существенно инвестирует в развитие инфраструктуры, а также в строительство сети высокоскоростных железных дорог по всей стране. Также мы продолжаем развивать транспортно-логистическую связанность с дружественными странами, для того чтобы стать региональным хабом для инвестиций и торговли. Туризм, безусловно, играет очень важную роль в этом отношении . Именно благодаря такой политике и мерам Лаосская Народно-Демократическая Республика смогла заслужить доверие и признание на региональных и международных площадках. Стоит отметить, что в 2024 году именно Лаос выступил председателем в АСЕАН, и именно в рамках этого председательства мы определили девять приоритетных направлений. Все они были посвящены теме продвижения большей связанности и устойчивости региона, построенной вокруг трёх основных принципов сообщества АСЕАН. Мы очень успешно провели своё председательство в АСЕАН и остаёмся привержены заявленным принципам, а именно принципу центральной роли АСЕАН. Сегодня уже с уверенностью можно сказать, что АСЕАН – это сообщество, которое доказало свою приверженность миру, региональному сотрудничеству, а также всегда действует в духе взаимопомощи в соответствии с выбранным путём АСЕАН. Именно поэтому Лаосская Народно-Демократическая Республика полагает, что укрепление АСЕАН требует продвижения экономического сотрудничества и связанности в регионе в целом. Мы и в дальнейшем будем стремиться к увеличению большей региональной интеграции и связанности. Ваше Превосходительство! Уважаемые гости! Дамы и господа! Лаосская Народно-Демократическая Республика открыта для сотрудничества со всеми странами, для того чтобы достичь целей по продвижению мира, стабильности, процветания и благополучия в регионе и на международном уровне. Именно в этом духе я хотел бы пригласить всех вас посетить Лаос, для того чтобы ознакомиться с нашей богатой культурой и красивой природой, а также открыть для себя потенциал и возможности по продвижению сотрудничества и осуществлению инвестиций в нашей стране. Также от лица Правительства и народа Лаоса я желаю всяческих успехов X Восточному экономическому форуму здесь, во Владивостоке. И надеюсь, что в будущем он будет оставаться платформой для свободного обмена идеями, сотрудничества и построения будущего, где у всех стран равные возможности. Я также хотел бы выразить искреннюю благодарность Президенту Путину, а также поблагодарить его и поздравить с успешным проведением форума. Ваше Превосходительство господин Президент, уважаемые гости, желаю всем вам крепкого здоровья и успешного исполнения своих обязанностей. Благодарю вас за внимание. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you for the support, yes. Next I want to give the floor to the Prime Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic. I ask Mr. Sonexay Siphandone to come up to the rostrum. The floor is yours. S. Siphandone (as translated): Your Excellency Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, President of the Russian Federation! Respected guests! Ladies and gentlemen! It is a great joy and an honor for me to take part in this forum. I was very glad to receive the invitation from President Putin and to come here, to Vladivostok. I have come to Vladivostok for the first time. On behalf of the Government and the people of the Lao People's Democratic Republic I would like to express my sincere gratitude to His Excellency President Putin and to the Government of the Russian Federation for the warm reception given to me and to our delegation. I would also like to thank them for the excellent organization of the Tenth Eastern Economic Forum. I am absolutely sure that today this forum is an important driving force in the promotion of cooperation in the sphere of the economy, social development, and also cultural interaction. This forum contributes to an improvement in the quality of life of people in the Russian Far East and in the Asia-Pacific region as a whole. Our meeting today plainly demonstrates Russia's leading role in its striving to promote international cooperation within bilateral and multilateral formats. This concerns interaction in the political aspect, the economic one, and also in the promotion of new technologies and developments. Today we are in an extremely complicated situation: changes on the world arena are entirely unpredictable precisely in connection with the geopolitical situation, with the existing problems, above all those grounded precisely in the protectionist measures that some countries are introducing in their striving to compete and even to hinder the development, the accelerated growth, of other countries. This is aggravated by a whole series of other problems: these are natural catastrophes, climate change, the very rapid development of modern technologies, of new technological solutions, especially the introduction of artificial intelligence. We are encountering the problem of instability on the energy and raw-materials markets. Food, too, is now a certain problem. We are observing crises in this direction as well. But it is precisely all these problems that must be solved in order to ensure global peace, prosperity, and stability at the present moment and for the future. And in order to solve all these problems, we must cooperate. We must use the existing consultative, multilateral, and bilateral mechanisms, which are based on the principles of mutual respect and observance of the standards of international law. Without doubt this is an important mechanism, which often requires certain reforms in order adequately to reflect the current situation, to correspond to its challenges. The theme of this year's forum is cooperation in the name of peace and prosperity. The choice of theme is most timely, given the current situation, because it is precisely without peace that we cannot achieve prosperity. The reverse assertion is also true: without prosperity peace will never be stable and lasting. That is precisely why we must work together so that the concepts of prosperity and peace go hand in hand. Your Excellency! Ladies and gentlemen! The Far East region unites a whole series of countries that have very great potential. We see that the Russian Federation acts as the key driving force for the promotion of cooperation precisely in this region. This concerns both bilateral and multilateral formats. Above all these are such associations as BRICS, cooperation between Asia and Europe, such formats as the SCO, and many others. It is precisely they that contribute to the promotion of cooperation in the economic sphere in this region. These are the formats that work on the principles of mutual respect and the independence of their members. Laos also strives for cooperation within the framework of open mechanisms. We see that it is precisely within the framework of such cooperation that we can find solutions for contemporary challenges. International mechanisms that retain their relevance for the solution of these problems must be used. For the Government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic it is extremely important to work on the creation of a more comfortable economic environment for attracting investment and developing trade. Among other things, we intend to create and develop special economic zones and industrial parks across the whole country. We have also been able to get rid of some excessive complications or red tape so that the process of attracting direct foreign investment would be the most comfortable and straightforward. We have also improved the law on the attraction of investment. It is precisely this law that presupposes a whole series of measures that will make investment in our country more attractive both for domestic investors and for international ones. We are concentrating on the most attractive sectors: these are agriculture, renewable sources of energy, geological exploration, agriculture, manufacturing industry, the pharmaceutical branch, education, technologies, the services sector, of course tourism, transport, infrastructure projects, and also logistics. I would also like to note that Laos is the only ASEAN member country that has no access to the sea. That is precisely why it is very important for us to act as the country that makes the maximum use of its strategic location. We want to ensure maximum connectivity through land routes and in this way to develop logistics in the region as a whole. Our Government is investing substantially in the development of infrastructure, and also in the construction of a network of high-speed railways across the whole country. We also continue to develop transport and logistics connectivity with friendly countries, in order to become a regional hub for investment and trade. Tourism, without doubt, plays a very important role in this respect. It is precisely thanks to such a policy and measures that the Lao People's Democratic Republic has been able to earn trust and recognition on regional and international platforms. It is worth noting that in 2024 it was precisely Laos that acted as chair of ASEAN, and it was precisely within the framework of this chairmanship that we defined nine priority directions. All of them were devoted to the theme of promoting greater connectivity and resilience of the region, built around three basic principles of the ASEAN community. We conducted our chairmanship of ASEAN very successfully and remain committed to the declared principles, namely the principle of ASEAN's central role. Today one can already say with confidence that ASEAN is a community that has proved its commitment to peace, regional cooperation, and also always acts in a spirit of mutual assistance in accordance with the chosen ASEAN way. That is precisely why the Lao People's Democratic Republic believes that strengthening ASEAN requires the promotion of economic cooperation and connectivity in the region as a whole. We will continue to strive for an increase in greater regional integration and connectivity. Your Excellency! Respected guests! Ladies and gentlemen! The Lao People's Democratic Republic is open to cooperation with all countries in order to achieve the goals of promoting peace, stability, prosperity, and well-being in the region and at the international level. It is precisely in this spirit that I would like to invite all of you to visit Laos, in order to become acquainted with our rich culture and beautiful nature, and also to discover for yourselves the potential and the possibilities for promoting cooperation and carrying out investment in our country. Also, on behalf of the Government and the people of Laos, I wish every success to the Tenth Eastern Economic Forum here in Vladivostok. And I hope that in the future it will remain a platform for the free exchange of ideas, cooperation, and the building of a future in which all countries have equal possibilities. I would also like to express sincere gratitude to President Putin, and also to thank him and congratulate him on the successful conduct of the forum. Your Excellency Mr. President, respected guests, I wish all of you robust health and the successful fulfillment of your duties. Thank you for your attention. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: What about supporting the industries? I mean the coal industry which is going through difficult times. You mentioned gas yesterday and said that we may face gas shortages in the Far East and volumes must be increased. How do you see solutions to these problems in these particular industries and who should we start with? |
| М.Рыбакова: Спасибо большое за добрые слова. Спасибо за приглашение, с удовольствием воспользуюсь: никогда не была в Лаосе. Но кроме того, о чём Вы сейчас рассказали, хочется, конечно, отдельно остановиться на такой удивительной вещи. Вы сейчас являетесь крупнейшим экспортёром электроэнергии. У вас даже есть такое прозвище – «батарейка Юго-Восточной Азии». Вообще, как у вас так получилось быстро сделать, нарастить в таких объёмах? И, соответственно, может быть, и нам есть чему поучиться, тем более что Владимир Владимирович говорил о том, что нам тоже нужно строить гидроэлектростанции и всячески развивать ТЭК. Прошу прощения, у нас технические проблемы с переводом. Владимир Владимирович, придётся мне тогда у Вас спросить. Вчера у Вас была большая встреча, Вы говорили о топливно-энергетическом комплексе на Дальнем Востоке, о том, как важно вкладывать деньги, развивать его. У меня главный вопрос: где будем брать деньги? Потому что средства колоссальные, объёмы большие и задачи Вы поставили, скажем так, довольно серьёзные. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you very much for your kind words. Thank you for the invitation; I will gladly take you up on it: I have never been to Laos. But besides what you have just told us, I would, of course, like to focus separately on something remarkable. You are now the largest exporter of electricity. You even have a nickname, "the battery of Southeast Asia". How did you manage to do this so quickly, to increase it to such volumes? And, accordingly, perhaps we too have something to learn, especially since Vladimir Vladimirovich said that we also need to build hydroelectric power stations and develop the fuel and energy sector in every way. Excuse me, we have technical problems with the interpreting. Vladimir Vladimirovich, I will have to ask you, then. Yesterday you had a major meeting; you spoke about the fuel and energy sector in the Far East, about how important it is to invest money and develop it. My main question is: where will we get the money? Because the sums are enormous, the volumes are large, and the tasks you have set are, shall we say, quite substantial. |
| В.Путин: Деньги – всегда важная вещь, но не самая главная. Самое главное – это правильная организация работы, определение приоритетов и взаимодействие между различными структурами, которые должны решать общую задачу. Эта общая задача заключается в том, чтобы региональные власти с одной стороны договаривались с инвесторами с другой, а инвесторы должны гарантировать, – здесь есть коллеги, наверняка, которые планируют что-то сделать, – эти инвесторы должны гарантировать потребление этой энергии. А значит, тогда те, кто её будет производить, должны быть уверены в том, что они, вкладывая деньги в создание энергетических мощностей и сетевого хозяйства, не проработают вхолостую, истратят деньги, а потом всё это подвиснет. Первое, что нужно сделать, – это организовать совместную работу, а потом уже искать новейшие технологии и тех инвесторов, которые готовы применять эти технологии вместе с контролирующими организациями, которые должны следить за хрупкой экосистемой Арктики и Дальнего Востока, применять эти технологии. Вот это общая задача. И тогда проблем с деньгами никаких не будет, потому что от вложенных средств наступит быстрая отдача. В конечном итоге это пойдёт на пользу и бюджету, поскольку он будет получать новые налоговые поступления от эффективной и грамотно выстроенной работы новых предприятий. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: Money is always an important thing, but not the most important. The most important thing is the right organization of the work, the definition of priorities, and interaction among the various structures that must solve a common task. This common task consists in the regional authorities on one side coming to terms with investors on the other, and the investors must guarantee — there are colleagues here, certainly, who plan to do something — these investors must guarantee the consumption of this energy. And that means that those who will produce it must be sure that, by putting money into creating energy capacity and grid facilities, they will not work to no purpose, spend the money, and then have all of it left hanging. The first thing that must be done is to organize joint work, and only then to look for the newest technologies and those investors who are ready to apply these technologies together with the supervising organizations, which must watch over the fragile ecosystem of the Arctic and the Far East, and apply these technologies. That is the common task. And then there will be no problems with money at all, because a quick return will come from the funds invested. In the end this will benefit the budget too, since it will receive new tax receipts from the effective and competently built work of new enterprises. |
| М.Рыбакова: А что касается поддержки отраслей? Я имею в виду угольную промышленность – у неё сейчас непростые времена. И о газе Вы вчера говорили – о том, что на Дальнем Востоке, очевидно, мы столкнёмся с нехваткой и нужно наращивать объёмы. Здесь каким образом Вы видите решение проблем именно в этих отраслях и с кого вообще стоит начинать? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: And what about support for industries? I mean the coal industry; it is going through difficult times now. And yesterday you spoke about gas, about how we will evidently face a shortage in the Far East and need to increase volumes. How do you see the solution to the problems in these particular industries, and who should we start with in general? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. I would like to invite our next speaker. Prime Minister of Mongolia, Gombojavyn Zandanshatar, you have the floor. Prime Minister of Mongolia Gombojavyn Zandanshatar (retranslated): Esteemed President of the Russian Federation, Mr Putin, Esteemed Prime Minister of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic Sonexay Siphandone, esteemed Member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China Li Hongzhong! Ladies and gentlemen! Allow me to extend my greetings. Mr Putin, I would like to sincerely thank you for your kind invitation to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum, which grows in significance and scale with each passing year. It is a great honour for me to take part in the jubilee tenth Eastern Economic Forum as the head of the executive power of Mongolia. The regular assembly of the Eastern Economic Forum, along with its discussions on key issues of international and regional economic development, investment, infrastructure, energy, and environmental cooperation, is of great importance for shaping the future trajectories of our countries. This has firmly established the forum as a vital mechanism for dialogue in the Asia-Pacific region. I am confident it will continue to serve as an authoritative platform for meaningful discussions. This year’s theme – Far East: Cooperation for Peace and Prosperity – is both timely and highly relevant. I believe that our deliberations here will help chart new avenues for joint development. Amid large-scale political, social, and economic changes on the global stage, our countries are facing complex challenges in the social and economic spheres, including rising prices and persistent logistical and financial difficulties. I am confident that the Far Eastern region – home to the majority of the world’s population and accounting for one-third of global GDP – will play a decisive role in the future. For this reason, Mongolia is keen to deepen trade and economic ties and to expand investment, particularly with the states of East and Southeast Asia. Along with our geographical advantages, Mongolia boasts abundant natural resources as well as a young and skilled workforce. The Government of Mongolia has been pursuing consistent policies to harness these assets, attract investment, and foster trade and cooperation, and these efforts are already delivering results. Over the past three years, our economy has grown at an average annual rate of six percent, contributing to the region’s stable development. The Government will continue its work on diversifying the economy, strengthening macroeconomic stability, creating a favorable business climate, and enhancing the openness of foreign trade. Ladies and gentlemen, We are currently celebrating the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, an event that has been ingrained forever in the history of humankind including the peoples of Mongolia, Russia and China. Our countries, eternal neighbours and strategic partners, keep strengthening and fostering bilateral and trilateral relations, overcoming all barriers, as we are set on expanding mutually beneficial cooperation. Ten years ago, the three countries’ leaders signed a roadmap of cooperation between Mongolia, Russia and China, and identified the priorities of trilateral interaction. Several days ago – in fact, three days ago – the leaders had a meeting in China to discuss further cooperation plans. I want to stress that Mongolia is ready to actively participate in the alignment of the Steppe Road Initiative, the Eurasian Economic Union, the Belt and Road Initiative, and also to promote and deepen the implementation of the economic corridor with Russia and China. We will ensure stable and fruitful participation on this track. The programme of establishing an economic corridor Mongolia-Russia-China designed to develop and enhance comprehensive cooperation within the strategic partnership between Mongolia, Russia and China, will definitely enhance political trust, attract investment and contribute to regional integration. In this context, Mongolia has always had highest regard for the significance of and prospects for the 33 projects of the economic corridor. We believe that laying foundations for mutually beneficial cooperation, especially in road transport, helps attract investment from international banks and financial institutions. Regular trilateral meetings on the implementation of these projects also promote their advancement. The parties have also agreed in principle on another major project – construction of a gas pipeline across the territory of Mongolia. I would like to declare with full responsibly from this rostrum that the Mongolian government is committed to rendering every possible support to this mega project. We believe this project will unveil new economic opportunities, will be beneficial for the environment and strategically important. It will become a project of great significance for trilateral cooperation. Esteemed Mr Putin, I express sincere gratitude to Alexei Miller for this project. Thank you. In addition, our countries are also discussing an upgrade of the central transport corridor connecting our three nations, setting up new railway interchanges and the development of cross border checkpoints which meet international standards. These are all strategically important and economically advantageous projects. We think the implementation of these programmes and projects contributes to expanding trade and transport links between Russia, China, Asia and Europe and also steps up regional cooperation. An interim agreement on free trade between Mongolia and the Eurasian Economic Union and its member states was signed at the meeting of the Eurasian Economic Commission Supreme Council in Minsk last June. Under the agreement, tariffs were cut on 367 goods and temporary customs duties on some goods were completely scrapped, which was in important step forward in regional economic integration. Ladies and gentlemen, The Eastern Economic Forum will help open up new opportunities to fight crises in the Far East, Asia and the Pacific Region, invigorate regional cooperation in the economy and other areas, and also launch new important joint projects and programmes. We are totally ready to expand cooperation and to advance the development of the region together. Over the past time, we have initiated a multitude of programmes and measures to enhance integration. Stepping up these efforts, filling them with new content will definitely serve our common interests. I wish all the participants of the Eastern Economic Forum success, achievements in work, and good health. Thank you. |
| В.Путин: Вы сказали про угольщиков, у которых, Вы сказали, нелёгкие времена. Они нелёгкие в том смысле, что размеры нашей угольной добывающей промышленности большие, и конъюнктура на внешних рынках изменилась, но мы в значительной степени должны ориентировать себя на внутренние потребности и на внутренний рынок. Первое. Второе. Повторяю ещё раз: у нас большое количество угля, на 900 лет запасы здесь, на Дальнем Востоке. Но, для того чтобы их применять, применять эффективно эти энергоресурсы, нам нужны современные технологии. Над этим нужно прежде всего работать. Если внутренний рынок будет потреблять нужные для нас объёмы, мы сможем это использовать эффективно, то тогда никаких сложностей с конъюнктурой внешнего рынка, которые оказывали бы на отрасль такое влияние, просто не будет. Мы сможем спокойно регулировать тогда работу всех отраслей, в том числе и угледобывающей. Вот к этому мы должны стремиться, и это является одной из наших кардинальных задач. А внешняя конъюнктура, конечно, имеет значение – мы должны её учитывать. Но чтобы быть более гибкими и более устойчивыми, должны опору делать на внутренний рынок. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: You spoke about the coal miners, who, you said, are going through difficult times. They are difficult in the sense that our coal-mining industry is large and conditions in foreign markets have changed, but we must orient ourselves to a considerable degree toward domestic needs and the domestic market. That is the first point. Second. I repeat once again: we have a great deal of coal, reserves for 900 years here in the Far East. But to use them, to use these energy resources efficiently, we need modern technologies. This is what we need to work on above all. If the domestic market consumes the volumes we need, if we can use this efficiently, then there simply will be no difficulties arising from foreign market conditions that would have such an impact on the industry. We will then be able to regulate the operation of all industries smoothly, including coal mining. This is what we must strive for, and it is one of our fundamental tasks. External market conditions do, of course, matter; we must take them into account. But to be more flexible and more resilient, we must rely on the domestic market. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you very much. I have a follow-up question. Mr Gombojavyn Zandanshatar, you mentioned the Power of Siberia. Mongolia took an active part in the SCO Summit when a trilateral meeting was held. I have the following question – I was looking for information which was not available until now – will you buy our gas or will you render transit services only? Gombojavyn Zandanshatar (retranslated): We are engaged in trilateral efforts to lay that gas pipeline from Russia across Mongolia to China. At present, all technical and economic aspects have been completed, including research. It is a large-scale trilateral project. The parties agreed in principle on laying this gas pipeline. I can say with all responsibility that we are fully prepared for the construction. We attach great importance to laying this pipeline in a proper way. At today’s meeting with Alexei Miller we had a detailed discussion of all the relevant issues, how to implement this project efficiently and without any failures, and also to ink a trilateral intergovernmental agreement. Mongolia is not only a transit country. It can also buy and consume natural gas, connect its big cities to this gas pipeline, that is, build a gas distribution network. It will contribute to industrial development and mitigate environmental disasters such as winter smog in Ulaanbaatar, and will offer new opportunities for Mongolia’s economy. It will become a strategically crucial natural resource to solve current issues. Under the project, 50 billion cubic metres of gas will be transferred by that pipeline annually. It is evidently one of the biggest projects of the century. I believe it will also involve a lot of organisational efforts. I would like to thank and congratulate everyone on this project. |
| М.Рыбакова: Спасибо. Я приглашаю нашего следующего спикера. Премьер-министр Монголии Гомбожавын Занданшатар, Вам слово. Гомбожавын Занданшатар (как переведено): Уважаемый Президент Российской Федерации господин Путин! Уважаемый Премьер-министр Лаосской Народно-Демократической Республики господин Сонсай Сипхандон! Уважаемый член Политбюро Центрального Комитета Коммунистической партии Китая Ли Хунчжун! Уважаемые гости и делегации! Дамы и господа! Позвольте приветствовать вас. Уважаемый Владимир Владимирович, благодарю Вас за Ваше приглашение на Восточный экономический форум, который с каждым годом расширяет свою значимость и охват. Я рад поучаствовать в юбилейном, десятом Восточном экономическом форуме в качестве главы исполнительной власти Монголии. Регулярное проведение Восточного экономического форума и обсуждение на его площадке важных вопросов развития международной и региональной экономики, инвестиций, инфраструктуры, энергетики и окружающей среды имеют большое значение для формирования будущих направлений развития стран, что сделало форум важным механизмом диалога в Азиатско-Тихоокеанском регионе. Этот форум в дальнейшем будет авторитетной площадкой для проведения дискуссий. Тема нынешнего форума «Дальний Восток – сотрудничество во имя мира и процветания» актуальна и важна. Безусловно, убеждён, что данный форум поможет определить перспективы нашего совместного с вами развития. В результате масштабных политических, социальных и экономических изменений на мировой арене складывается весьма непростая ситуация в социальной и экономической сферах жизни наших стран. Это связано с ростом цен, логистическими и финансовыми трудностями. Уверен, что регион Дальнего Востока, где проживает большинство населения мира, на который приходится треть внутреннего валового продукта мира, в будущем будет играть особо значимую роль. Поэтому у нас есть интерес к расширению торговли, экономических связей, инвестиций в этом регионе, особенно с государствами Восточной и Юго-Восточной Азии. Помимо географических преимуществ у нас есть природное богатство, молодые и квалифицированные кадры. Правительство [Монголии] реализует последовательную политику для использования этих ресурсов, развития инвестиций, торговли и сотрудничества, что уже даёт результаты. За последние три года экономика Монголии выросла в среднем на шесть процентов, внося вклад в стабильное развитие региона. Правительство продолжит работу по диверсификации экономики, укреплению макроэкономической стабильности, созданию благоприятной деловой среды и повышению открытости внешней торговли. Уважаемые дамы и господа! В эти дни мы вместе отмечаем 80-летие окончания Второй мировой войны – события, навсегда запечатлевшегося в истории человечества, включая народы Монголии, России и Китая. Наши страны, являющиеся вечными соседями и стратегическими партнёрами, продолжают укреплять и развивать двусторонние и трёхсторонние отношения, преодолевая все границы, и одержимы целью расширения взаимовыгодного сотрудничества. Десять лет назад лидеры трёх стран подписали «дорожную карту» развития сотрудничества Монголии, России и Китая и определили основные направления трёхстороннего взаимодействия. Несколько дней назад, буквально три дня назад, в Китае прошла встреча лидеров, где обсуждались дальнейшие планы сотрудничества. Хочу подчеркнуть, что Монголия готова активно участвовать в сопряжении «Степного пути», Евразийского экономического союза, инициативы «Один пояс, один путь», а также развивать и углублять реализацию программы создания экономического коридора с Россией и Китаем. Мы будем обеспечивать стабильную и плодотворную работу в сотрудничестве в этом направлении. Программа создания экономического коридора Монголия – Россия – Китай, призванная развивать и расширять всестороннее сотрудничество в рамках всеобъемлющего стратегического партнёрства между Монголией, Россией и Китаем, безусловно, способствует укреплению политического доверия, привлечению инвестиций и развитию региональной интеграции. В этой связи в рамках укрепления трёхстороннего сотрудничества Монголия всегда высоко оценивала значимость и перспективу реализации 33 проектов программы экономического коридора и считает, что заложение основ взаимовыгодного сотрудничества, особенно в дорожно-транспортном секторе, способствует привлечению инвестиций со стороны международных банков и финансовых институтов. Регулярная трёхсторонняя встреча по реализации этих проектов также способствует их продвижению. Также стороны достигли принципиальной договорённости по реализации крупного проекта – создания газопровода через территорию Монголии. Хочу с ответственностью заявить с этой трибуны о намерении Правительства Монголии оказывать всестороннюю поддержку для реализации данного мегапроекта. Мы считаем, что этот проект откроет новые экономические возможности, принесёт экологическую выгоду, будет стратегически значимым и, таким образом, станет важным проектом трёхстороннего сотрудничества. Уважаемый Владимир Владимирович, выражаю благодарность Алексею Борисовичу Миллеру за этот проект. Спасибо. Кроме того, также наши стороны обсуждают обновление центрального транспортного коридора, который соединяет наши три страны, создание новых железнодорожных переходов и развитие пограничных пунктов в соответствии с международными стандартами. Всё это стратегически важные и экономически выгодные проекты. Реализация этих проектов и программ, по нашему мнению, способствует расширению торговых и транспортных связей между Россией, Китаем, Азией и Европой, а также усилению регионального сотрудничества. На заседании Высшего совета Евразийской экономической комиссии в Минске в июне этого года было подписано временное соглашение о свободной торговле между Монголией, Евразийским экономическим союзом и его членами. В рамках этого соглашения снизили тарифы на 367 видов товаров и полностью отказались от временных пошлин по некоторым товарам, что стало важным шагом вперёд в региональной экономической интеграции. Уважаемые дамы и господа! Восточный экономический форум поможет открыть новые возможности для борьбы с кризисами на Дальнем Востоке, в Азии и Тихоокеанском регионе, активизировать региональное сотрудничество в экономике и других сферах, а также запустить важные совместные проекты и программы. Мы полностью готовы расширять сотрудничество и вместе двигать вперёд развитие этого региона. За прошедшее время мы инициировали множество программ и мероприятий, направленных на укрепление интеграции. Активизация этих работ, обогащение их новым содержанием непременно служит нашим общим интересам. Желаем всем участникам Восточного экономического форума успехов, благополучия в работе и здоровья. Спасибо за внимание. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. I invite our next speaker. Prime Minister of Mongolia Gombojavyn Zandanshatar, you have the floor. Gombojavyn Zandanshatar (as interpreted): Esteemed President of the Russian Federation, Mr Putin! Esteemed Prime Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, Mr Sonexay Siphandone! Esteemed member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, Li Hongzhong! Esteemed guests and delegations! Ladies and gentlemen! Allow me to welcome you. Esteemed Vladimir Vladimirovich, thank you for your invitation to the Eastern Economic Forum, whose significance and reach expand every year. I am glad to participate in the anniversary, tenth Eastern Economic Forum as head of Mongolia's executive branch. Holding the Eastern Economic Forum regularly and discussing important issues of international and regional economic development, investment, infrastructure, energy and the environment here are of great importance for shaping countries' future development directions, making the forum an important mechanism for dialogue in the Asia-Pacific region. This forum will continue to be an authoritative venue for discussions. The theme of this forum, “The Far East: Cooperation for Peace and Prosperity,” is timely and important. I am certainly convinced that this forum will help determine the prospects for our development together with you. Large-scale political, social and economic changes on the world stage are creating a very difficult situation in the social and economic spheres of our countries' lives. This is connected with rising prices and logistical and financial difficulties. I am confident that the Far Eastern region, home to the majority of the world's population and accounting for a third of the world's gross domestic product, will play an especially significant role in the future. We are therefore interested in expanding trade, economic ties and investment in this region, especially with the states of East and Southeast Asia. Besides geographical advantages, we have natural wealth and young, qualified personnel. The Government [of Mongolia] is pursuing a consistent policy to use these resources and develop investment, trade and cooperation, and this is already producing results. Over the past three years, Mongolia's economy has grown by an average of six percent, contributing to the region's stable development. The Government will continue working to diversify the economy, strengthen macroeconomic stability, create a favorable business environment and increase the openness of foreign trade. Ladies and gentlemen! These days we are together marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, an event forever etched in human history, including that of the peoples of Mongolia, Russia and China. Our countries, eternal neighbors and strategic partners, continue strengthening and developing bilateral and trilateral relations, overcoming all boundaries, and are driven by the aim of expanding mutually beneficial cooperation. Ten years ago, the leaders of the three countries signed a roadmap for developing cooperation between Mongolia, Russia and China and identified the main areas of trilateral interaction. Several days ago, just three days ago, a meeting of the leaders took place in China, where further cooperation plans were discussed. I want to emphasize that Mongolia is ready to participate actively in aligning the Steppe Road, the Eurasian Economic Union and the Belt and Road Initiative, and to develop and deepen implementation of the program to establish an economic corridor with Russia and China. We will ensure stable and productive work in cooperation in this direction. The program to establish the Mongolia–Russia–China economic corridor, intended to develop and expand comprehensive cooperation within the comprehensive strategic partnership between Mongolia, Russia and China, certainly helps strengthen political trust, attract investment and develop regional integration. In this connection, as part of strengthening trilateral cooperation, Mongolia has always highly appreciated the importance and prospects of implementing the economic corridor program's 33 projects, and believes that laying the foundations for mutually beneficial cooperation, especially in the road and transport sector, helps attract investment from international banks and financial institutions. Regular trilateral meetings on implementing these projects also help advance them. The parties have also reached an agreement in principle on implementing a major project: building a gas pipeline through Mongolia. From this rostrum, I wish to state with full responsibility the Mongolian Government's intention to provide comprehensive support for implementing this megaproject. We believe this project will open new economic opportunities, bring environmental benefits and have strategic significance, thus becoming an important trilateral cooperation project. Esteemed Vladimir Vladimirovich, I express my gratitude to Alexey Borisovich Miller for this project. Thank you. In addition, our sides are also discussing upgrading the central transport corridor connecting our three countries, creating new railway crossings and developing border checkpoints in line with international standards. All these are strategically important and economically beneficial projects. In our view, implementing these projects and programs helps expand trade and transport ties between Russia, China, Asia and Europe, and strengthen regional cooperation. At the meeting of the Supreme Council of the Eurasian Economic Commission in Minsk in June this year, an interim free trade agreement was signed between Mongolia, the Eurasian Economic Union and its members. Under this agreement, tariffs were reduced on 367 types of goods and temporary duties on certain goods were abolished entirely, an important step forward in regional economic integration. Ladies and gentlemen! The Eastern Economic Forum will help open new opportunities to combat crises in the Far East, Asia and the Pacific region, intensify regional cooperation in the economy and other areas, and launch important joint projects and programs. We are fully ready to expand cooperation and together advance this region's development. Over the past period, we have initiated many programs and activities aimed at strengthening integration. Intensifying this work and enriching it with new substance certainly serves our common interests. We wish all Eastern Economic Forum participants success, well-being in their work and good health. Thank you for your attention. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: So are you ready to buy gas? Gombojavyn Zandanshatar: Research work is currently underway. The devil is in the details, that’s why more research and discussions are needed. Maria Rybakova (addressing Alexei Miller): I ask you to place it on record, Mr Miller, that I have just reached an agreement, as it appears. Mr Putin, obviously, the next question is a logical follow-up on our discussion of the Power of Siberia. The memorandum has been signed and caused a stir. Everybody had a sigh of relief, as it seemed to me. The term of the agreement is 30 years. I have not seen the specific price. As I understand, it must be a commercial secret, yet they say that the prices will be lower than in Europe, at least. There was a Soviet joke that we are giving our oil to Europe through “Friendship.” What do you think, are we going to give the “power” of our Siberia to China? |
| М.Рыбакова: Спасибо большое. У меня следом сразу будет вопрос. Господин Гомбожавын Занданшатар, Вы сказали о «Силе Сибири». Монголия принимала активное участие сейчас на встрече на саммите ШОС, была трёхсторонняя встреча. У меня какой вопрос – я искала информацию, не знаю, может быть, она уже появилась, – Вы газ наш брать будете или это только транзитные услуги? Гомбожавын Занданшатар (как переведено): Мы в трёхстороннем порядке работаем над тем, чтобы проложить этот газопровод из России через территорию Монголии в Китай. На данный момент проведены все технико-экономические работы, в том числе исследовательские работы. Это крупный проект, который осуществляется между нашими странами. Стороны договорились о принципиальном согласии прокладки данного газопровода. Хотел бы ответственно заявить о том, что мы уже готовы приступить к строительству. Придаём особое значение тому, чтобы ответственно проложить этот газопровод. Сегодня при встрече с Алексеем Борисовичем [Миллером] тоже детально обсудили вопросы и то, как хорошо и без каких-либо происшествий его реализовать, а также заключить трёхстороннее межправительственное соглашение. Монголия не только транзитная страна, но Монголия может и потреблять, закупать природный газ, подключить крупные города Монголии к данному газопроводу, то есть провести газификацию. Это поможет развитию промышленности, борьбе с экологическими бедствиями, такими как смог в Улан-Баторе зимой, и принесёт новые возможности экономике Монголии, в том числе станет стратегически важным природным ресурсом, для того чтобы решить насущные вопросы. Этот проект будет прокачивать ежегодно 50 миллиардов кубометров газа. Это, конечно, один из самых крупных проектов целого века. Уверен, что это станет большой организационной работой. Хотелось бы поблагодарить и поздравить всех с этим проектом. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you very much. I have a follow-up question straight away. Mr Gombojavyn Zandanshatar, you mentioned Power of Siberia. Mongolia recently participated actively at the SCO summit meeting; there was a trilateral meeting. My question is—I was looking for information, and I do not know, perhaps it has already appeared—will you take our gas, or is this only transit services? Gombojavyn Zandanshatar (as interpreted): We are working trilaterally to lay this gas pipeline from Russia through Mongolia to China. At present, all technical and economic work, including research, has been carried out. This is a major project being implemented between our countries. The parties have agreed in principle to lay this pipeline. I would like to state with full responsibility that we are already ready to begin construction. We attach particular importance to laying this pipeline responsibly. Today, at a meeting with Alexey Borisovich [Miller], we also discussed the issues in detail and how to implement it well and without any incidents, as well as conclude a trilateral intergovernmental agreement. Mongolia is not just a transit country: Mongolia can also consume and purchase natural gas and connect major Mongolian cities to this pipeline, that is, provide them with gas. This will help industrial development and efforts to combat environmental disasters such as winter smog in Ulaanbaatar, and bring new opportunities to Mongolia's economy, including becoming a strategically important natural resource for addressing pressing issues. This project will transport 50 billion cubic meters of gas annually. This is, of course, one of the largest projects of an entire century. I am sure it will entail a major organizational undertaking. I would like to thank and congratulate everyone on this project. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: This is a mutually beneficial project. As for prices, they are based on the market and are actually estimated using the same formula as for Europe. The formula is the same but its components, the prices of various products, which make up the gas price, they are simply different in different regions of the world. The prices in Europe differ from those in Asia. And the formula to determine the price is the same, it is absolutely market-based. We had long talks and every time when participants in the economic activity are talking and trying to find a solution – and most of the people here are like those – everybody understands well enough: this is not an easy process yet everybody is striving to reach the result both negotiating sides are interested in. Gazprom and its Chinese partners have reached such a result in the course of their years-long |
| М.Рыбакова: То есть берёте газ? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: So you will take the gas? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. Since we have approached the energy projects anyway, I still want to listen to the story about how Laos managed to make such a stride. I want to ask how you could become the main power source? I understand that our technical issues have now been resolved. Mr Sonexay Siphandone, please tell us the secret of your energy market. How did you manage to achieve such great results? Why does everybody want to connect to your power source? Sonexay Siphandone (retranslated): Thank you very much for your question. This is a very important question. We consider the electric power to be a priority area for us, like oil and natural gas. The thing is that we are a country that purchases 100 percent of its oil and gas, and for this reason the electric power is important for us, and it is also green power. Our government encourages a broader use of electric power. We also regard the development of hydropower engineering as a priority, as we have abundant water resources and many rivers in our country. All this allows us to build a large number of hydroelectric power plants. Ninety-five percent of the energy that we produce comes from hydropower engineering. The total capacity exceeds 12 million megawatts. We plan to increase this figure to 30 million megawatts. Still, given the climate changes and other calamities, the problem looks still greater for us, especially during the rain and draught seasons. This is why we resort to other, alternative energy sources. Specifically, we use wind and the solar energy. We would like to thank President Putin, after our President visited Russia at the end of July. During the talks, peaceful use of nuclear energy was discussed, as well as the use of nuclear energy products in medicine. We talked about cooperation in agriculture. I firmly believe that cooperation with the Russian Federation will make it possible for us to develop our energy sector, and it will develop in a more stable manner. Moreover, we will ensure stability in the production and consumption of energy. Of course, we cannot speak for entire Asia, but given our development priorities, we focus on advancing technology and science. We are creating a network of metadata centres to develop the ICT sector, and all of this requires energy. Therefore, we give priority to meeting domestic demand for energy and then export energy to neighbouring countries. We are developing a power transmission network in order to cover more Asian countries. Previously, we exported electricity to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. We also exported electricity to Singapore and Malaysia. Nowadays, we are beginning the second stage of all these projects. Yes, these are all priority areas for us, but, I repeat, energy must be provided first for our own domestic consumption and also meet the needs of neighbouring countries if we export this electricity there. There are very good prospects for our sector. I have just described them. Thank you. |
| Гомбожавын Занданшатар: Сейчас проводим исследовательские работы. Дьявол кроется в деталях, поэтому нам нужно ещё исследовать и обсудить. М.Рыбакова (обращаясь к А.Миллеру): Прошу зафиксировать, господин Миллер, что я договорилась только что, получается так. Владимир Владимирович, естественно, следующий вопрос логично вытекает из того, что мы обсуждаем «Силу Сибири». Меморандум подписан, много шума наделал. Все немножко выдохнули, как мне показалось. На 30 лет рассчитана договорённость. Я не видела конкретную цену. Понятно, это, наверное, связано и с коммерческой тайной, но, по крайней мере, говорят, что эти цены будут ниже европейских. Была такая шутка в советское время: мы отдаём нефть по «Дружбе» в Европу. Как Вы считаете, мы «силу» нашей «Сибири» не будем Китаю отдавать? |
Full house translation — pending review Гомбожавын Занданшатар: We are now conducting research. The devil is in the details, so we still need to study and discuss this. M. Rybakova (addressing A. Miller): Please make a note, Mr Miller, that I have just reached an agreement, as it turns out. Vladimir Vladimirovich, naturally, the next question follows logically from our discussion of Power of Siberia. The memorandum has been signed and has caused quite a stir. Everyone breathed a little easier, it seemed to me. The agreement is for 30 years. I have not seen a specific price. Understandably, this is probably also related to commercial confidentiality, but at least people say that these prices will be lower than European ones. There was a joke in Soviet times: we give oil to Europe through "Friendship". What do you think, will we not be giving China the "power" of our "Siberia"? |
| В.Путин: Это взаимовыгодный проект. Что касается цен, то они носят рыночный характер и рассчитываются фактически по такой же формуле, как и рассчитывались при поставках в Европу. Формула одна и та же, но составляющие этой формулы, цены на различные продукты, из которых складывается цена на газ, они просто разные в разных регионах мира, эти цены. В Европе – это одни цены, в Азии – другие. А формула определения цены одна и та же, она абсолютно рыночная. Это были долгие переговоры, и всегда, когда между собой общаются и стараются найти какое-то решение участники экономической деятельности, а здесь подавляющее большинство таких людей в зале находится, все прекрасно понимают: это непростой процесс, но все стремятся к достижению результата, в котором заинтересованы обе договаривающиеся стороны. Такой результат в ходе совместной многолетней работы между «Газпромом» и его китайскими партнёрами достигнут. Я могу только ещё раз всех поздравить. Это действительно один из крупнейших энергетических проектов в мире. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: This is a mutually advantageous project. As for the prices, they are of a market character and are calculated in fact by the same formula by which they were calculated for supplies to Europe. The formula is one and the same, but the components of this formula, the prices of the various products of which the price of gas is made up, are simply different in different regions of the world, these prices. In Europe they are one set of prices, in Asia another. And the formula for determining the price is one and the same; it is wholly a market formula. These were long negotiations, and always, when participants in economic activity talk among themselves and try to find some solution — and the overwhelming majority of such people are here in the hall — everyone understands perfectly: it is not a simple process, but everyone strives for a result in which both contracting sides are interested. Such a result has been reached in the course of many years of joint work between Gazprom and its Chinese partners. I can only congratulate everyone once again. This really is one of the largest energy projects in the world. |
| М.Рыбакова: Спасибо. Раз уж мы всё равно подошли к энергетическим проектам, я всё-таки хочу услышать историю о том, как удалось совершить Лаосу такой рывок. Я имею в виду, как вы стали «главной батарейкой»? Я так понимаю, у нас технические неполадки сейчас устранены. Господин Сонсай Сипхандон, расскажите, в чём секрет вашего энергетического рывка? Как у вас получилось добиться таких больших результатов? Почему все к вашей «батарейке» хотят подключиться? С.Сипхандон (как переведено): Большое спасибо за Ваш вопрос. Это очень важный вопрос. Мы полагаем, что электроэнергия – для нас приоритетное направление, равно как и нефть, и природный газ. Дело в том, что мы страна, которая на 100 процентов закупает и нефть, и газ, поэтому электроэнергия – это вещь важная, но это ещё и «зелёный» вид энергии. Наше Правительство поощряет более широкое использование электроэнергии. Развитие гидроэнергетики нами рассматривается также в качестве приоритета, поскольку мы располагаем обильными водными ресурсами, у нас много рек на территории страны. Всё это позволяет нам строить большое количество гидроэлектростанций. 95 процентов энергии, которую мы производим, – это продукция гидроэнергетики. Совокупная мощность превышает 12 миллионов мегаватт. Мы планируем увеличить это значение до 30 миллионов мегаватт. Но с учётом процессов изменения климата и других стихийных бедствий задача для нас становится более сложной, особенно в период дождей и в период засухи. Поэтому мы прибегаем к другим, альтернативным, источникам энергии. В частности, мы используем ветровую энергию, энергию солнца. Мы благодарим господина Президента Путина, поскольку наш Президент посещал Россию в конце июля текущего года. В ходе переговоров речь шла о мирном использовании атомной энергии, также речь шла об использовании продуктов атомной энергетики в медицине. Мы говорили о сотрудничестве в сельском хозяйстве. Я уверен, что сотрудничество с Российской Федерацией позволит развивать наш сектор энергетики, он будет развиваться стабильнее. Более того, мы обеспечим стабильность в выработке и потреблении энергии. Мы, конечно, не можем говорить за всю Азию, но с учётом приоритетов нашего развития мы делаем акцент на развитии технологий и науки. Мы формируем сеть центров метаданных, для того чтобы развивать сектор информационных технологий, а для всего этого нужна энергия. Поэтому мы отдаём приоритет удовлетворению внутреннего спроса на энергию и потом уже занимаемся экспортом энергии в соседние страны. Мы развиваем сеть электропередачи, с тем чтобы охватить большее количество стран Азии. Ранее мы экспортировали электроэнергию во Вьетнам, в Камбоджу, в Таиланд. Мы экспортировали электроэнергию в Сингапур, Малайзию. И сейчас мы выходим на второй этап реализации всех этих проектов. Да, это всё приоритетные направления для нас, но, ещё раз повторю, энергетика должна обеспечивать наше собственное внутреннее потребление и также удовлетворять потребности соседних стран в случае экспорта этой электроэнергии туда. Существуют весьма хорошие перспективы для нашего сектора. Я их только что описал. Благодарю вас. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. Since we have come to energy projects anyway, I would still like to hear the story of how Laos managed such a leap forward. I mean, how did you become the “main battery”? As I understand it, our technical problems have now been fixed. Mr Sonexay Siphandone, tell us the secret of your energy breakthrough. How did you manage to achieve such impressive results? Why does everyone want to connect to your “battery”? S. Siphandone (as interpreted): Thank you very much for your question. This is a very important question. We believe electricity is a priority area for us, as are oil and natural gas. The thing is, we are a country that buys 100 percent of both its oil and gas, so electricity is important, but it is also a “green” form of energy. Our Government encourages the wider use of electricity. We also regard hydropower development as a priority because we have abundant water resources and many rivers in our country. All this enables us to build a large number of hydropower plants. 95 percent of the energy we produce comes from hydropower. Total capacity exceeds 12 million megawatts. We plan to increase this figure to 30 million megawatts. But given climate change and other natural disasters, the task is becoming more difficult for us, especially during the rainy season and periods of drought. We therefore turn to other, alternative energy sources. In particular, we use wind and solar energy. We thank President Putin, since our President visited Russia at the end of July this year. The talks addressed the peaceful use of nuclear energy, as well as the use of nuclear industry products in medicine. We discussed cooperation in agriculture. I am sure cooperation with the Russian Federation will enable our energy sector to develop, and to develop more steadily. Moreover, we will ensure stability in energy production and consumption. Of course, we cannot speak for all of Asia, but given our development priorities, we emphasize developing technology and science. We are creating a network of metadata centers to develop the information technology sector, and all this requires energy. So we give priority to meeting domestic energy demand, and only then export energy to neighboring countries. We are developing the electricity transmission network to reach more Asian countries. Previously we exported electricity to Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. We exported electricity to Singapore and Malaysia. And we are now entering the second stage of implementing all these projects. Yes, these are all priority areas for us, but I repeat once again: the energy sector must provide for our own domestic consumption and also meet neighboring countries' needs when this electricity is exported there. Our sector has very good prospects. I have just described them. Thank you. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Mr Putin, what do you think is the obstacle now preventing us from starting this as soon as possible? What is putting spokes in our wheels? |
| В.Путин: Мы обсуждаем же сотрудничество в Азиатско-Тихоокеанском регионе. Вы возвращаете меня всё время к сотрудничеству, скажем, с нашими друзьями и союзниками в Китайской Народной Республике. Мы про Индию ещё не говорили – там тоже много планов. Но к Азиатско-Тихоокеанскому региону относятся, скажем, и Соединённые Штаты. И там очень много есть «заинтересантов», которые хотят возобновить или начать новую работу с нами. Вот мы говорим об Азиатско-Тихоокеанском регионе. У нас есть хорошие предложения по работе с компаниями США на Аляске. Причём там ресурсы есть, а у нас есть технологии добычи и сжижения газа, которые являются гораздо более эффективными, чем те, которыми располагают наши некоторые американские партнёры. Они это знают, и на уровне участников экономической деятельности, компании, готовы к сотрудничеству. Не от нас зависит – мы тоже готовы, но, если там будут политические решения, мы будем двигаться и по этому направлению, и в Арктике можем совместно работать. Кстати говоря, мы с китайскими друзьями тоже обсуждали возможность работы в трёхстороннем формате на некоторых наших арктических месторождениях уже сейчас. В принципе все эти возможные варианты обсуждаются, они на столе. Нужно только политическое решение. Это возможно, причём взаимовыгодное было бы сотрудничество и в области газа, и в области нефти. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: We are discussing cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region, after all. You keep returning me to cooperation, let us say, with our friends and allies in the People's Republic of China. We have not yet spoken of India — there are many plans there too. But the United States, let us say, also belongs to the Asia-Pacific region. And there are a great many interested parties there who want to resume or begin new work with us. So we are speaking of the Asia-Pacific region. We have good proposals for working with US companies in Alaska. And there the resources exist, while we have technologies for extracting and liquefying gas that are much more efficient than those some of our American partners have. They know this, and at the level of participants in economic activity the companies are ready to cooperate. It does not depend on us — we are ready too — but if there are political decisions there, we will move in this direction too, and in the Arctic we can work jointly. By the way, we also discussed with our Chinese friends the possibility of working in a trilateral format at some of our Arctic fields, already now. In principle all these possible variants are being discussed; they are on the table. All that is needed is a political decision. This is possible, and it would be mutually advantageous cooperation both in gas and in oil. |
| М.Рыбакова: Владимир Владимирович, а как Вам кажется, что сейчас ставит палки в колёса, чтобы быстрее к этому не приступить? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Vladimir Vladimirovich, what do you think is throwing a spanner in the works now, preventing us from starting on this sooner? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: I see. |
| В.Путин: Это не ко мне вопрос. Мы никаких палок, ничего не вставляем ни в какие колёса. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: This is not a question for me. We are not sticking any sticks, or anything else, into any wheels. |
| М.Рыбакова: Понятно. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: I see. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. I would like to give the floor to Li Hongzhong, member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress. Please, the floor is yours. Li Hongzhong (retranslated): President Putin, Prime Minister Siphandone of Laos, Prime Minister Zandanshatar of Mongolia. Ladies and gentlemen, friends, I am delighted to meet you all in Vladivostok, the pearl of the Russian Far East, at the 10th Eastern Economic Forum. This year marks the Forum’s tenth anniversary. A decade ago, thanks to the initiative of President Putin and his personal support, the Forum’s remarkable journey began here. Over the past nine years of dedicated work, the Forum has grown into a vital platform for fostering cooperation in the Far East and advancing regional development. It has become a powerful driver for unlocking the potential of the Russian Far East and strengthening the economy of Northeast Asia. Over the past nine years, we have witnessed not only the growth of the Forum, but also remarkable progress and breakthroughs in the history of China–Russia relations. Under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and President Vladimir Putin, political mutual trust has deepened steadily, while comprehensive cooperation between our two countries has continued to expand. The breadth, depth, and high quality of our bilateral cooperation reflect the vitality of interregional ties and exchanges. In this context, I would like to highlight the strong momentum of cooperation within the Northeast China – Russian Far East framework, made possible by the personal attention and efforts of our two heads of state. For many years, China has remained the largest trading partner and leading external investor in the Russian Far East. In 2024, trade under the Northeast China – Russian Far East framework reached $105.8 billion, representing 43 percent of total bilateral trade and serving as a key driving force in China–Russia economic relations. Ladies and gentlemen, Friends, This year marks the 80 th anniversary of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Great Patriotic War, and the world war against fascism. Eighty years ago, in the face of the evil forces of fascism, China, the Soviet Union, and other peace-loving countries and peoples stood firm in defending historical truth and justice, and delivered a decisive rebuff. China and the Soviet Union, as the principal theatres of World War II in Asia and Europe, endured enormous sacrifices and made a historic contribution to the victory in the world anti-fascist war. In May and September, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin took part in the celebrations of the victory anniversary in Moscow and Beijing. They defended the outcomes of World War II and the principles of international justice while calling on the entire world to remember history and open a path to the future. Ladies and gentlemen, Friends, Today, the world is undergoing profound and accelerating changes. Global challenges are not diminishing, and the lack of global governance is becoming increasingly acute. Many issues transcend the internal affairs of individual states and cannot be resolved by any country alone. Just a few days ago, President Xi Jinping put forward an initiative on global governance at the SCO Plus meeting. This initiative focuses on the vital question of what kind of global governance system should be created, and how it can be reformed and improved. This represents China’s vision for effectively addressing global challenges and deepening international cooperation. It reflects the expectations of many stakeholders, demonstrates the responsibility of a major power, and expresses its desire to build a community of shared destiny for humankind. China and Russia are influential powers and constructive forces supporting global strategic stability and advancing global governance. We are ready to fully leverage the advantages that our two neighbouring countries enjoy, and to strengthen close and united cooperation with all regional partners, including Russia, in the spirit of joint consultations, joint construction, and shared benefit. Together, we can move toward a bright future of peaceful development and mutually beneficial cooperation. In this context, I would like to offer the following opinion. First – peace and stability contribute to development. Peaceful, stable and prosperous Northeast Asia meets the interests of all the countries in the region and is a common dream of its peoples. China has long been pursuing the path of amicability and establishing neighbourly, partner relations with adjacent nations, supporting the countries of the region in selecting a development path consonant with their national realities. We are ready to deepen mutual political trust and alignment of interests, jointly safeguard the regional stability and respond to common risks and challenges. Second – openness and tolerance contribute to prosperity. As the Chinese adage goes, ‘Openness leads to progress while isolation – to lagging behind.’ Amid current globalisation, none of the countries is progressing alone. We back up an open, transparent, inclusive and non-discriminatory multilateral trade system and advocate the creation of an open-type regional economy, unlocking the potential of natural peculiarities and the geographical advantages of the world’s countries. We are ready – through joint consultations, joint construction and joint use – to strengthen cooperation in production and supply chains, remove protectionism, assist in the free movement of capital, market and technologies for the sake of economic integration in the region. Third – reciprocal exchange and assimilation contribute to cementing mutual understanding. Spiritual bonding of nations is a foundation for friendly relations between our countries. Our countries are bonded by common mountains and rivers, our cultures influence each other. Our peoples maintain close ties while our friendship is rooted in the past. We need to continue this friendly timeline, deepen reciprocal exchanges and training, enhance cooperation in tourism, education, youth affairs, culture and art. We need to make people’s trips easier so as to foster neighbourliness and friendship. Ladies and gentlemen, Friends, A Chinese adage says, ‘When everyone’s efforts are joined, victory is inevitable.’ Peace and prosperity in our region are inseparable from each party’s efforts. China is ready “to open its doors” so as to share new development opportunities with all countries of the world on the basis of the news results of China’s modernisation and China’s greater openness. We are ready to promote neighbourliness and friendship, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation for the sake of joint usage of the results of the development of all the region’s countries for our wonderful common future. I wish all the participants fruitful work. Thank you for your attention. |
| Matching Russian passage has not been identified | Maria Rybakova: Thank you very much. Right after your remarks, I would like to touch upon your meeting yesterday, which focused on Russia’s reciprocal decision to abolish visas. We discussed this earlier, and you mentioned during your visit to China that China introduced a visa-free arrangement for Russians. My immediate question is this: While expanded tourism will certainly benefit both countries’ economies and cultural ties, the main concern remains, Mr President, which is the matter of payments. For example, I want to visit China as a tourist, but I don’t have a Visa card, and my Mastercard is blocked here. I got a UnionPay card issued about three years ago, but it no longer works. Today, very few banks can issue such cards, and those that do are ruble-based, meaning payments are made in rubles. The only option is to carry cash and exchange it or find a more creative solution. Unfortunately, I haven’t mastered cryptocurrency yet. Are there any preconditions for making the system of payments between our countries more transparent and accessible? I would like to pose the same question, in turn, to Mr Li Hongzhong. |
| В.Путин: Вы же в начале спросили про нашего орла, который является одним из наших символов. Он смотрит в одну сторону и в другую. Но вы посмотрите на этого орла сейчас. Мы что, разве от кого-то отвернулись, что ли? Нет, мы ни от кого не отворачивались. Он как смотрит в две стороны, так и смотрел. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: You did ask at the beginning about our eagle, which is one of our symbols. It looks one way and the other. But look at this eagle now. Have we turned away from someone, or what? No, we have not turned away from anyone. As it looks in two directions, so it has looked. |
| М.Рыбакова: Благодарю. И наконец, я хочу передать слово члену Политбюро Центрального комитета Коммунистической партии Китая, заместителю Председателя Постоянного комитета Всекитайского собрания народных представителей Ли Хунчжуну. Прошу Вас. Ли Хунчжун (как переведено): Уважаемый Президент Путин! Уважаемый Премьер-министр Лаоса господин Сонсай! Уважаемый Премьер-министр Монголии господин Занданшатар! Уважаемые дамы и господа! Друзья! Очень рад встретиться с вами во Владивостоке – жемчужине российского Дальнего Востока – на X Восточном экономическом форуме. В этом году Восточный экономический форум отмечает свой десятилетний юбилей. Десять лет назад по инициативе господина Президента Путина и благодаря Вашей личной поддержке здесь началась славная история форума. Благодаря проделанной за девятилетие кропотливой работе форум уже стал важной площадкой для налаживания сотрудничества на Дальнем Востоке и содействия региональному развитию. Форум придаёт огромный импульс освоению потенциала Дальнего Востока России и развитию экономики Северо-Восточной Азии. Прошедшее девятилетие свидетельствовало не только о развитии форума, но и о серьёзных достижениях и прорывах в истории китайско-российских отношений. Под стратегическим руководством Председателя Китая Си Цзиньпина и Президента России Владимира Путина неуклонно углубляется политическое взаимодоверие, непрерывно укрепляется многоплановое сотрудничество между Китаем и Россией Всеобъемлющий характер, широкий охват и высокие качества двустороннего сотрудничества как раз и подтверждают интенсивность межрегиональных связей и взаимодействия. В этой связи хочу отметить высокую динамику сотрудничества в рамках формата «Северо-Восток Китая и Дальний Восток России» благодаря личному вниманию и усилиям глав государств. Многие годы подряд Китай сохраняет за собой статус крупнейшего торгового партнёра и внешнего инвестора для Дальнего Востока России. За 2024 год торговля в рамках формата «Северо-Восток Китая и Дальний Восток России» составила 105,8 миллиарда долларов США, занимает 43 процента общего двустороннего товарооборота, играет важную авангардную роль в китайско-российской торговле. Дамы и господа! Друзья! Текущий год проходит под знаком 80-летия победы китайского народа в войне сопротивления японским захватчикам, Победы в Великой Отечественной войне и мировой антифашистской войне. 80 лет тому назад перед лицом злобных фашистских сил Китай, Советский Союз и другие миролюбивые страны и народы твёрдо стояли на страже исторической правды и справедливости, дали решительный отпор. Китай и Советский Союз, как главные военные театры Второй мировой войны в Азии и Европе, понесли огромные жертвы и внесли исторический вклад в победу в мировой антифашистской войне. В мае и сентябре этого года Председатель Китая Си Цзиньпин и Президент России Владимир Путин приняли участие в юбилейных торжествах по случаю победы в мировой антифашистской войне в Москве и Пекине, выступили с позиции защиты итогов Второй мировой войны и международной справедливости, чтобы призвать весь мир помнить историю и открывать будущее. Дамы и господа! Друзья! Сегодня ускоряются колоссальные перемены в мире, не утихают глобальные вызовы, всё актуальнее становится дефицит глобального управления. Многие вопросы не ограничиваются внутренними делами какой-то страны и не могут решаться одной страной. Несколько дней назад Председатель Китая Си Цзиньпин на встрече в формате «ШОС плюс» выдвинул инициативу по глобальному управлению, которая концентрирует внимание на эпохальной тематике о том, какую систему глобального управления формировать и как реформировать и совершенствовать глобальное управление. Это служит версии Китая по эффективному реагированию на глобальные вызовы и углублению глобального сотрудничества, является ответом на ожидания разных сторон, демонстрирует ответственность крупной страны и желание формировать сообщество единой судьбы человечества. Китай и Россия – влиятельные державы и конструктивные силы в поддержку глобальной стратегической стабильности и совершенствования глобального управления. Мы готовы полноценно выявлять преимущества соседних стран, наращивать тесное и консолидированное сотрудничество со всеми странами региона, включая Россию, в духе совместных консультаций, строительства и совместного использования, сообща двигаться к светлому будущему мирного развития и взаимовыгодного сотрудничества. В связи с этим хотелось бы высказать следующее мнение. Первое – мир и стабильность содействуют развитию. Мирная, стабильная и процветающая Северо-Восточная Азия соответствует общим интересам всех стран региона и является общим чаянием народов. Китай издревле придерживается курса дружелюбия, отстаивает курс на установление добрососедских, партнёрских отношений с сопредельными странами, поддерживает страны региона в выборе пути развития в соответствии с национальными реалиями. Мы готовы углублять политическое взаимодоверие и сопряжение интересов, вместе обеспечивать региональную стабильность и реагировать на общие риски и вызовы. Второе – открытость и толерантность способствуют процветанию. Как гласит древняя китайская мудрость, открытость ведёт к прогрессу, а изоляция – к отставанию. В условиях современной глобализации ни одна страна не растёт в одиночку. Мы поддерживаем открытую, прозрачную, инклюзивную и недискриминационную многостороннюю торговую систему, выступаем за создание региональной экономики открытого типа, раскрытие потенциала природных условий и географического преимущества стран мира. Мы готовы на основе совместных консультаций, совместного строительства и совместного использования укреплять сотрудничество в сфере цепочек производства и поставок, устранять протекционизм, содействовать свободному движению капитала, рынка и технологий в целях осуществления экономической интеграции в регионе. Третье – взаимный обмен и заимствование способствуют цементированию общего понимания. Душевное сближение между народами является фундаментом дружеских отношений между нашими странами. Наши страны связаны общими горами и реками, наша культура влияет друг на друга. Наши народы поддерживают тесные связи, а наша традиционная дружба уходит корнями в прошлое. Необходимо продолжать нашу дружескую историю, углублять взаимный обмен и обучение, наращивать сотрудничество в сфере туризма, образования, молодёжи, культуры, искусства, постоянно облегчать взаимные поездки людей в целях углубления добрососедства и дружбы. Дамы и господа! Друзья! Китайская мудрость гласит: «Когда объединяются усилия всех, победа уже неизбежна». Мир и процветание в нашем регионе неотделимы от усилий всех сторон. Китай готов «открывать свою дверь», чтобы поделиться новыми возможностями развития со всеми странами мира на основе новых результатов китайской модернизации и более высокого уровня открытости Китая. Готовы со всеми вместе углублять добрососедство и дружбу, укреплять взаимовыгодное сотрудничество в интересах взаимного использования плодов развития всех стран в регионе во имя нашего прекрасного общего будущего. Желаю всем участникам плодотворной работы. Спасибо за внимание. Большое спасибо. И сразу по следам выступления хочется поговорить о вчерашней Вашей встрече. Она была посвящена тому, что Россия тоже зеркально будет отменять визы в Китай. Мы об этом говорили, и Вы говорили в Китае, что Китай отменяет визы. У меня сразу вот какой вопрос возникает. Вообще, вся туристическая история, конечно, во благо и экономикам, и культурному содружеству наших стран. Но у меня главный вопрос расчётов, Владимир Владимирович. Смотрите, я, например, как турист хочу поехать в Китай. Визы нет, Mastercard у нас заблокирована. Union Pay – я делала подобную карту, наверное, три года назад, она сейчас не работает. Очень мало банков, которые сегодня реально могут эту карту сделать, и они рублёвые, то есть это рублёвый расчёт. Есть только один вариант – брать наличные, менять либо каким-то образом более креативно подходить. Крипту я, к сожалению, ещё не освоила. Как Вам кажется, есть ли какие-то предпосылки к тому, чтобы системы расчётов между нашими странами сделать понятнее, доступнее? И у меня такой же вопрос, соответственно, к господину Ли Хунчжуну. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. And finally, I want to give the floor to a member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, Deputy Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, Li Hongzhong. I ask you. Li Hongzhong (as translated): Respected President Putin! Respected Prime Minister of Laos, Mr. Sonexay! Respected Prime Minister of Mongolia, Mr. Zandanshatar! Respected ladies and gentlemen! Friends! I am very glad to meet with you in Vladivostok — the pearl of the Russian Far East — at the Tenth Eastern Economic Forum. This year the Eastern Economic Forum marks its tenth anniversary. Ten years ago, on the initiative of Mr. President Putin and thanks to your personal support, the glorious history of the forum began here. Thanks to the painstaking work done over the nine-year period, the forum has already become an important platform for establishing cooperation in the Far East and for promoting regional development. The forum gives an enormous impulse to the mastery of the potential of Russia's Far East and to the development of the economy of Northeast Asia. The nine-year period that has passed testified not only to the development of the forum, but also to serious achievements and breakthroughs in the history of Chinese-Russian relations. Under the strategic guidance of Chairman of China Xi Jinping and President of Russia Vladimir Putin, political mutual trust is steadily deepening, and multifaceted cooperation between China and Russia is continuously strengthening. The comprehensive character, the broad scope, and the high qualities of bilateral cooperation precisely confirm the intensity of interregional ties and interaction. In this connection I want to note the high dynamic of cooperation within the format "Northeast China and the Russian Far East," thanks to the personal attention and efforts of the heads of state. For many years in a row China has retained the status of the largest trade partner and external investor for the Russian Far East. For 2024, trade within the format "Northeast China and the Russian Far East" came to 105.8 billion U.S. dollars, occupies 43 percent of the overall bilateral goods turnover, and plays an important vanguard role in Chinese-Russian trade. Ladies and gentlemen! Friends! The current year is passing under the sign of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese people in the war of resistance against the Japanese invaders, of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, and of the world anti-fascist war. 80 years ago, in the face of vicious fascist forces, China, the Soviet Union, and other peace-loving countries and peoples stood firmly on guard for historical truth and justice and gave a decisive rebuff. China and the Soviet Union, as the main military theaters of the Second World War in Asia and in Europe, bore enormous sacrifices and made a historic contribution to victory in the world anti-fascist war. In May and September of this year, Chairman of China Xi Jinping and President of Russia Vladimir Putin took part in the anniversary celebrations on the occasion of victory in the world anti-fascist war in Moscow and in Beijing, and spoke from the position of defending the results of the Second World War and international justice, in order to call on the whole world to remember history and to open the future. Ladies and gentlemen! Friends! Today colossal changes in the world are accelerating, global challenges do not subside, and the deficit of global governance is becoming ever more pressing. Many questions are not limited to the internal affairs of some country and cannot be solved by one country. Several days ago, Chairman of China Xi Jinping, at a meeting in the "SCO plus" format, put forward an initiative on global governance, which concentrates attention on the epochal theme of what system of global governance to form and how to reform and improve global governance. This serves as China's version of an effective response to global challenges and of the deepening of global cooperation; it is an answer to the expectations of various sides, and it demonstrates the responsibility of a major country and the wish to form a community of a shared future for mankind. China and Russia are influential powers and constructive forces in support of global strategic stability and of the improvement of global governance. We are ready fully to bring out the advantages of neighboring countries, to build up close and consolidated cooperation with all the countries of the region, including Russia, in a spirit of joint consultations, joint construction, and joint use, and together to move toward a bright future of peaceful development and mutually beneficial cooperation. In this connection I would like to express the following opinion. The first — peace and stability promote development. A peaceful, stable, and prosperous Northeast Asia corresponds to the common interests of all the countries of the region and is the common aspiration of the peoples. From ancient times China has adhered to a course of friendliness, upholds a course of establishing good-neighborly, partnership relations with bordering countries, and supports the countries of the region in choosing a path of development in accordance with national realities. We are ready to deepen political mutual trust and the conjunction of interests, together to ensure regional stability and to respond to common risks and challenges. The second — openness and tolerance promote prosperity. As ancient Chinese wisdom says, openness leads to progress, and isolation to lagging behind. Under the conditions of contemporary globalization, not a single country grows alone. We support an open, transparent, inclusive, and non-discriminatory multilateral trade system; we stand for the creation of a regional economy of an open type, for the disclosure of the potential of the natural conditions and the geographic advantage of the countries of the world. We are ready, on the basis of joint consultations, joint construction, and joint use, to strengthen cooperation in the sphere of production and supply chains, to remove protectionism, to promote the free movement of capital, the market, and technologies, for the purpose of carrying out economic integration in the region. The third — mutual exchange and borrowing promote the cementing of a common understanding. Spiritual drawing-together between peoples is the foundation of friendly relations between our countries. Our countries are linked by common mountains and rivers; our culture influences one another. Our peoples maintain close ties, and our traditional friendship has its roots in the past. Our friendly history must be continued, mutual exchange and learning deepened, cooperation built up in the sphere of tourism, education, youth, culture, and art, and mutual trips by people constantly eased, for the purpose of deepening good-neighborliness and friendship. Ladies and gentlemen! Friends! Chinese wisdom says: "When the efforts of all are united, victory is already inevitable." Peace and prosperity in our region are inseparable from the efforts of all sides. China is ready to "open its door," in order to share new possibilities of development with all the countries of the world on the basis of the new results of Chinese modernization and a higher level of China's openness. We are ready, together with everyone, to deepen good-neighborliness and friendship, to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation in the interests of the mutual use of the fruits of development of all the countries in the region, in the name of our fine common future. I wish all the participants fruitful work. Thank you for your attention. Thank you very much. And right on the heels of the speech one wants to talk about your meeting yesterday. It was devoted to the fact that Russia, too, will mirror the cancellation of visas for China. We spoke of this, and you said in China that China is cancelling visas. I immediately have the following question. In general, the whole tourist story is, of course, to the good both of the economies and of the cultural commonwealth of our countries. But my main question is about settlements, Vladimir Vladimirovich. Look, I, for example, as a tourist want to go to China. There is no visa; Mastercard is blocked for us. UnionPay — I made a card of that kind, probably three years ago; it does not work now. There are very few banks that today can really make this card, and they are ruble ones, that is, this is a ruble settlement. There is only one option — to take cash, to exchange, or in some way to approach it more creatively. Crypto, unfortunately, I have not yet mastered. How does it seem to you: are there any preconditions for making the systems of settlement between our countries clearer, more accessible? And I have the same question, accordingly, for Mr. Li Hongzhong. |
| Matching Russian passage has not been identified |
Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: OK, then we’ll be waiting. Mr Li Hongzhong, we would like to hear a comment on the matter from the Chinese side. Li Hongzhong (retranslated): Thank you for your question. The Chinese Government is introducing a visa-free regime for Russian citizens. These are important outcomes and agreements between our heads of state. It is a meaningful sign of enhanced large-scale progress in the Russian-Chinese relations. I have attentively followed President’s Putin’s reply. I think President Putin’s answer is very professional and sets benchmarks for further development. I will not go into detail either, but I think, since our countries will meticulously work out all the issues together, we are sure to remove difficulties and technical issues related to payments. Therefore, we are confident we will achieve our goals. For example, circulation of Chinese currencies and payments. Of course, we hardly use cash now in China, we use our telephones for payments. This is a hard time for thieves because we do not use cash, it’s just a payment method. When I arrived in Vladivostok, I also had a good impression because I used my telephone here just like in Beijing. It means we already have good alignment in telecommunications. We also have to work on financial communications at the next stage. I think that we will certainly reach these goals through joint efforts. I have just mentioned Russian-Chinese cooperation. |
| Matching Russian passage has not been identified | Maria Rybakova: Thank you for the answer. Well, it looks like my only hope is the QR codes, no other options. Then, I want to come over from a good and friendly agenda to a not so friendly agenda and travel to the other part of the planet. As a matter of principle, you have answered media questions at the news conference in China just the day before. I mean the Ukraine crisis and everything concerning relations with America, everything happening in the area of the special military operation. Just yesterday, another meeting of the ‘coalition of the willing’ was concluded in Paris. Basically, I didn’t see any specific decisions taken at the end of it. So far, it's just talk about deploying military forces in Ukraine. But Donald Trump said he would call. First question: has he called yet? And the second question: What do you think about the decisions proposed by the other side? |
| В.Путин: Прежде всего хочу сказать, что решение политического руководства Китая, – конечно, принималось решение на политическом уровне, – о безвизовом въезде граждан Российской Федерации на территорию Китайской Народной Республики для нас было неожиданным, мы об этом раньше ничего не знали, тем более это было приятно. И конечно, это знак дружбы, который мы высоко ценим. Безусловно, это будет способствовать достаточно резкому увеличению и взаимных поездок, и созданию более благоприятных условий для бизнеса, и, конечно, сближению двух стран. Это очевидная вещь, просто очевидная. Для того чтобы поехать в любую страну, в том числе в Китай, мы же понимаем – рядовому человеку что нужно сделать? Пойти в одну инстанцию, в другую инстанцию, принести документы и так далее. А теперь – сел на самолёт и полетел. Правильно? И всё, и никакой бюрократии. Это, безусловно, будет способствовать сближению двух стран. И, разумеется, мы ответим зеркально на этот жест дружбы, сделаем то же самое. Что касается туристических поездок. Да, система расчётов требует дополнительного совершенствования. Мы занимаемся этим – занимаемся этим, так сказать, напряжённо. Работают финансовые учреждения, причём самого высокого уровня, и на коммерческой основе. Сейчас не хочу особенно комментировать, потому что я не хочу создавать своими комментариями каких-то сложностей для будущих решений. Это связано ещё и с необходимостью соблюсти интересы финансовых учреждений, которые находятся под определённым санкционным давлением. Но решения, конечно, есть. Мы прекрасно понимаем, что нужно добиваться того, чтобы для граждан, совершающих туристические поездки, было меньше сложностей. Есть, конечно, возможности использования нашей карты «Мир» – это само собой разумеется, китайских инструментов подобного рода. Можно объединять эти инструменты, можно пользоваться картами третьих стран. Уверяю вас, центральные банки с обеих сторон думают над этим. Сейчас только на одной из рабочих встреч в ходе визита нашей делегации в Китайскую Народную Республику руководители финансовых учреждений между собой в моём присутствии, в присутствии Председателя Си Цзиньпина все эти вопросы обсуждали. Они находятся в диалоге, в дискуссии друг с другом. Уверен, решения будут. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: Above all I want to say that the decision of China's political leadership — of course the decision was taken at the political level — on visa-free entry for citizens of the Russian Federation onto the territory of the People's Republic of China was unexpected for us; we had known nothing of this earlier, and it was all the more pleasant. And of course this is a sign of friendship, which we value highly. Without doubt it will contribute to a fairly sharp increase both in mutual trips and in the creation of more favorable conditions for business, and, of course, to the drawing together of the two countries. This is an obvious thing, simply obvious. In order to go to any country, including China, we understand — what does an ordinary person need to do? Go to one office, to another office, bring documents, and so on. And now — he got on a plane and flew. Correct? And that is all, and no bureaucracy. This will without doubt contribute to the drawing together of the two countries. And, of course, we will answer this gesture of friendship in mirror fashion; we will do the same. As for tourist trips. Yes, the settlement system requires additional improvement. We are occupied with this — occupied with it, so to speak, intensely. Financial institutions are working, and of the very highest level, and on a commercial basis. I do not want to comment especially now, because I do not want to create, by my comments, any difficulties for future decisions. This is also connected with the necessity of observing the interests of financial institutions that are under a certain sanctions pressure. But solutions, of course, exist. We understand perfectly well that one must achieve a situation in which there are fewer difficulties for citizens making tourist trips. There are, of course, possibilities of using our Mir card — that goes without saying — and Chinese instruments of a similar kind. One can combine these instruments; one can use the cards of third countries. I assure you, the central banks on both sides are thinking about this. Just now, at one of the working meetings in the course of our delegation's visit to the People's Republic of China, the heads of the financial institutions, among themselves, in my presence, in the presence of Chairman Xi Jinping, discussed all these questions. They are in dialogue, in discussion with each other. I am sure the decisions will come. |
| М.Рыбакова: Ну что, ждём. Господин Ли Хунчжун, с китайской стороны хочется какой-то комментарий услышать по поводу расчётов. Ли Хунчжун (как переведено): Спасибо за Ваш вопрос. Китайское Правительство вводит безвизовый режим для граждан России. Это важные итоги и договорённости между нашими главами государств. Это важный знак углублённого, широкомасштабного развития китайско-российских отношений. Я только что очень внимательно выслушал ответ Президента Путина. Считаю, ответ Президента Путина очень профессионален и задаёт нам ориентиры для дальнейшего развития. Я тоже не буду вдаваться в подробности, но считаю, что, как только наши страны тщательно проработают вопросы вместе, мы обязательно устраним трудности, технические вопросы по поводу расчётов. Поэтому мы уверены в достижении наших целей. Например, обращение китайских валют, а также расчёт. Конечно, в Китае сейчас мы мало используем наличные – мы просто используем телефон для платежей. Поэтому сейчас трудное [время] для воров, поскольку мы не используем наличные – это только способ платежа. Когда я приехал во Владивосток, у меня тоже [сложилось] хорошее впечатление, поскольку я здесь тоже использовал телефон, как в Пекине. Это значит, что у нас уже очень хорошее сопряжение в области телекоммуникаций. На следующем этапе нам нужно работать и над финансовыми коммуникациями. Я считаю, что нашими совместными усилиями мы обязательно достигнем этих целей. Только что я сказал про китайско-российское сотрудничество. Я упомянул, что нам нужно достичь свободного движения и капитала, и рынка, и людей. Уверен, что мы обязательно решим этот вопрос. Благодарю Вас за ответ. Что же, видимо, для меня надежда только на QR-коды, других вариантов нет. Я хотела бы тогда перейти от такой хорошей, дружеской повестки к не совсем дружеской повестке, перенестись в другую часть планеты. Вы в принципе ответили на вопросы журналистов на пресс-конференции в Китае, которая была буквально накануне. Я имею в виду украинский кризис и всё, что касается взаимоотношений с Америкой, всё, что происходит в зоне военной спецоперации. В Париже буквально накануне, это было вчера, завершилось очередное заседание «коалиции желающих». В принципе по финалу каких-то таких конкретных решений лично я не увидела. Пока это только разговор о том, что будет размещён военный контингент на территории Украины. Но Дональд Трамп сказал, что он позвонит. Первый вопрос: звонил или ещё нет? И второй вопрос: как Вы относитесь к тому, какие решения предлагает та сторона? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Well then, we shall wait. Mr Li Hongzhong, we would like to hear a comment from the Chinese side about settlements. Li Hongzhong (as interpreted): Thank you for your question. The Chinese Government is introducing visa-free travel for Russian citizens. These are important results and agreements between our heads of state. This is an important sign of the deepened, large-scale development of Chinese-Russian relations. I have just listened very carefully to President Putin's answer. I consider President Putin's answer very professional; it gives us guidelines for further development. I too will not go into detail, but I believe that once our countries thoroughly work through the issues together, we will certainly overcome the difficulties and technical issues concerning settlements. We are therefore confident of achieving our goals. For example, the circulation of Chinese currencies, as well as settlements. Of course, in China now we rarely use cash; we simply use our phones for payments. So these are difficult [times] for thieves, since we do not use cash; this is simply a payment method. When I came to Vladivostok, I too [formed] a good impression, since here I also used my phone, as in Beijing. This means we already have very good connectivity in telecommunications. At the next stage, we also need to work on financial communications. I believe that through our joint efforts we will certainly achieve these goals. I have just spoken about Chinese-Russian cooperation. I mentioned that we need to achieve the free movement of capital, markets and people. I am sure we will certainly resolve this issue. Thank you for your answer. Well, apparently my only hope is QR codes; there are no other options. I would now like to move from this pleasant, friendly agenda to a not entirely friendly one, to another part of the planet. You essentially answered journalists' questions at the press conference in China just the other day. I mean the Ukrainian crisis and everything concerning relations with America, everything happening in the special military operation zone. In Paris just the other day—it was yesterday—another meeting of the “coalition of the willing” concluded. Personally, I did not really see any concrete decisions at its conclusion. So far it is only talk of deploying a military contingent on Ukrainian territory. But Donald Trump said he would call. The first question: has he called yet or not? And the second: what do you think of the solutions that side is proposing? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thus we will be waiting. Time will tell, as they say. The next question is about peace settlement. You said earlier that you basically see a certain potential in this regard and even invited Vladimir Zelensky to Moscow. However, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has officially declined it. Do I take it right – or maybe I am wrong – that we cannot speak about any steps towards peace settlement in the nearest future? |
| 8 The Ukraine Conflict and Peace Prospects | |
| В.Путин: У нас с Президентом Трампом открытый диалог. Есть договорённость о том, что при необходимости мы можем друг другу звонить, связываться, разговаривать. Он знает, что я открыт к этим разговорам; и он тоже – я об этом знаю. Но пока по результатам вот этих консультаций в Европе у нас разговоров не было. Собственно, мне сложновато было это делать, я только что из Китая приехал, здесь нахожусь. Здесь никаких проблем для коммуникаций у нас нет. Первое. Второе, что касается возможных воинских контингентов на Украине. Это одна из первопричин втягивания Украины в НАТО. Поэтому, если там будут появляться какие-то войска, особенно сейчас, в ходе ведения боевых действий, исходим из того, что это будут законные цели для их поражения. А если будут достигнуты решения, которые приведут к миру, к долгосрочному миру, то тогда я просто не вижу никакого смысла в их нахождении на территории Украины, вот и всё. Если договорённости будут достигнуты, пусть никто не сомневается, что Россия их будет исполнять в полном объёме. Мы будем уважать те гарантии безопасности, которые, конечно, должны быть выработаны и для России, и для Украины. И повторю ещё раз: безусловно, Россия будет эти договорённости исполнять. Во всяком случае, с нами на серьёзном уровне пока это никто не обсуждал, вот и всё. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: We have an open dialogue with President Trump. There is an understanding that if necessary we can call each other, get in touch, talk. He knows that I am open to these conversations; and he is too — I know this. But so far, following the results of these consultations in Europe, we have had no conversations. In fact it was rather hard for me to do this; I have only just arrived from China and am here. Here we have no problems for communications. First. Second, as regards possible military contingents in Ukraine. This is one of the root causes of Ukraine's being drawn into NATO. So if some troops begin to appear there, especially now, in the course of combat operations, we proceed from the view that these will be lawful targets for striking them. And if decisions are reached that lead to peace, to a long-term peace, then I simply see no sense in their being on the territory of Ukraine, and that is all. If understandings are reached, let no one doubt that Russia will carry them out in full. We will respect the security guarantees that, of course, must be worked out both for Russia and for Ukraine. And I repeat once more: Russia will certainly carry out these understandings. At any rate, no one has yet discussed this with us at a serious level, and that is all. |
| М.Рыбакова: Значит, ждём. Время покажет, как говорится. Следующий вопрос касается мирного урегулирования. Вы накануне отвечали о том, что в принципе Вы видите в этом потенциал и даже пригласили Владимира Зеленского в Москву. Но украинский МИД официально отказал. Я так понимаю, может быть, я неправильно понимаю, то есть в ближайшее время мы не можем говорить ни о каких шагах к мирному урегулированию? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: So we wait. Time will tell, as they say. The next question concerns a peaceful settlement. The other day, you answered that in principle you see potential in this, and even invited Vladimir Zelensky to Moscow. But the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry officially declined. As I understand it, perhaps I understand incorrectly, does this mean that in the near future we cannot speak of any steps toward a peaceful settlement? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Mr Putin, thank you for the answer. May I ask one more question? And then we will definitely switch to the Far East. |
| В.Путин: Всё-таки я попросил бы Вас поближе быть к тематике Азиатско-тихоокеанского экономического сотрудничества. Но я понимаю, что без решения таких острых проблем и сотрудничество в целом имеет обременение, поэтому это вопросы законные. Что могу сказать? Первое. Ведь совсем недавно руководство киевского режима, мягко говоря, нелестно о нас отзывалось и исключало всякие возможности прямых контактов. Сейчас мы видим: они об этих контактах просят, во всяком случае, предлагают. Я уже многократно говорил, что готов к этим контактам. На пресс-конференции в Пекине, о которой Вы упомянули, я сказал, что смысла большого не вижу. Почему? Потому что договориться будет с украинской стороной практически невозможно по ключевым вопросам. Даже если будет политическая воля, в чём я сомневаюсь, есть юридико-технические трудности, которые заключаются в том, что любые договорённости по территориям должны быть подтверждены в соответствии с конституцией Украины на референдуме. Для того чтобы провести референдум, нужно отменить военное положение, в условиях военного положения он не проводится. Если будет отменено военное положение, нужно тут же проводить выборы Президента. После того как будет проведён референдум, если он будет проведён, вне зависимости от результатов нужно заручиться решением конституционного суда. А конституционный суд не работает, потому что после запросов, как я понимаю, в конституционный суд о легитимности действующей власти суд уклонился от этих решений, и глава режима просто приказал охране не пускать председателя конституционного суда на рабочее место. Вот такая демократия там. А председатель верховного суда просто сидит в тюрьме по коррупционным обвинениям. Хорошо известно, на Украине хватает этой коррупции. Но почему нужно было именно председателя верховного суда в тюрягу засадить, не очень понятно. Хотя понятно, что там дело дошло до уничтожения судебной системы как таковой. Это ещё один из ярких признаков «демократичности» сегодняшней украинской власти. Поэтому этот бесконечный процесс, он в никуда. Тем не менее мы сказали, что готовы к встрече на высшем уровне. Послушайте, украинская сторона хочет этой встречи и предлагает эту встречу. Я сказал: готов, пожалуйста, приезжайте, мы точно совершенно обеспечим условия для работы и безопасность, гарантия стопроцентная. Но если нам говорят: мы хотим с вами встречи, но вы поезжайте туда-то на эту встречу, – мне кажется, что это их просто избыточные запросы в наш адрес. Повторяю ещё раз: если реально кто-то хочет с нами встретиться, мы готовы. Самое лучшее место для этого – столица Российской Федерации город-герой Москва. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: All the same I would ask you to be closer to the subject matter of Asia-Pacific economic cooperation. But I understand that without the solution of such acute problems, cooperation on the whole has a burden too, so these questions are lawful. What can I say? The first thing. Quite recently, after all, the leadership of the Kiev regime spoke of us, to put it mildly, unflatteringly, and ruled out any possibility of direct contacts. Now we see: they are asking for these contacts, in any case they are proposing them. I have already said many times that I am ready for these contacts. At the press conference in Beijing that you mentioned, I said that I do not see much sense. Why? Because it will be practically impossible to agree with the Ukrainian side on the key questions. Even if there is political will, which I doubt, there are legal and technical difficulties, which consist in the fact that any agreements on territories must be confirmed, in accordance with the constitution of Ukraine, at a referendum. In order to hold a referendum, martial law must be lifted; under conditions of martial law it is not held. If martial law is lifted, presidential elections must be held at once. After the referendum has been held, if it is held, regardless of the results one must secure a decision of the constitutional court. And the constitutional court is not working, because after inquiries, as I understand it, to the constitutional court about the legitimacy of the acting authority, the court evaded these decisions, and the head of the regime simply ordered the guards not to let the chairman of the constitutional court into his workplace. That is the kind of democracy there. And the chairman of the supreme court is simply sitting in prison on corruption charges. It is well known that there is plenty of this corruption in Ukraine. But why it was necessary to put precisely the chairman of the supreme court in jail is not very clear. Although it is clear that things there have gone as far as the destruction of the judicial system as such. This is one more of the vivid signs of the "democratic character" of today's Ukrainian authority. So this endless process leads nowhere. Nevertheless we said that we are ready for a meeting at the highest level. Listen, the Ukrainian side wants this meeting and proposes this meeting. I said: I am ready, please, come; we will with complete certainty ensure the conditions for work and security, a one-hundred-percent guarantee. But if they say to us: we want a meeting with you, but you go to such and such a place for this meeting — it seems to me that these are simply excessive demands on their part addressed to us. I repeat once more: if someone really wants to meet with us, we are ready. The best place for this is the capital of the Russian Federation, the hero city of Moscow. |
| М.Рыбакова: Владимир Владимирович, спасибо за ответ. Можно ещё один вопрос я задам? И потом точно про Дальний Восток будем говорить. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Vladimir Vladimirovich, thank you for the answer. May I ask one more question? And then we will definitely talk about the Far East. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: I would like to go back to the root causes of the special military operation. Literally, during the same news conference, you said you saw no obstacles and had no problem with Ukraine accessing the EU. That same day, a statement by former Ukrainian President Yanukovich was released. He enjoyed support at the time, and we got along with him just fine. I understood that he also always said that he wanted and looked to the West. Maybe, I misunderstood it. Were you talking about the same thing, or not? |
| В.Путин: Пожалуйста. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: Please. |
| М.Рыбакова: Я хотела бы вернуться к теме первопричин спецоперации. Буквально опять же на той же пресс-конференции Вы говорили о том, что вообще не видите никаких препятствий или проблем вступления Украины в ЕС. При этом в этот же день вышло заявление бывшего президента Украины Януковича, он тогда поддерживался, мы были в дружеских отношениях. Я так поняла, что он тоже всегда говорил о том, что хотел и смотрел в сторону Запада. Я, может быть, как-то не так это поняла, то есть Вы говорили про одно и то же или всё-таки нет? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: I would like to return to the subject of the root causes of the special operation. At that very same press conference, again, you said that you saw absolutely no obstacles or problems with Ukraine joining the EU. At the same time, a statement by former Ukrainian president Yanukovych came out that day; he was supported at the time, and we were on friendly terms. As I understood it, he too always said that he wanted to move toward the West and was looking in that direction. Perhaps I misunderstood this somehow; were you talking about the same thing, or not after all? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. Russia, and especially the Far East – we are going to talk about wealth – naturally boasts enormous natural resources. This also applies to fish resources. Recently, I came across some interesting statistics, which I would like to share with you. For comparison: supplies of Russian crab to the domestic market over the same period amounted to about 8,000 tonnes. In other words, we have a sort of crab paradox: the crab really does walk sideways, bypassing us and heading instead to Korea, Japan, and China. Do you think Russia has sufficient processing capacity at its ports to add value through processing, and supply it to the domestic market instead of just catching and auctioning it? After all, live crab is the most expensive product and, as far as I know, all live shipments are currently going in the opposite direction. |
| В.Путин: Я не знаю, как Вы поняли. Сейчас я расскажу, как на самом деле всё складывается, а складывается следующим образом. Действительно, Украина ставила перед собой задачу и сейчас ставит – вступление в ЕС. И повторяю: это законный выбор Украины, как выстраивать свои международные связи, как обеспечивать свои интересы в области экономики, с кем заключать союзы. Проблема для нас на тот период времени, когда президентом был Янукович, заключалась в том, что встраивание Украины в европейскую систему экономических отношений было связано для нас с некоторыми проблемами экономического характера, потому что Украина входила в зону свободной торговли, у нас были открыты таможенные границы, и для нас это имело определённые последствия. И Украина должна была сопоставить, положить на чашу весов, что она теряла в контактах с нами в прямом денежном выражении и в кооперационном и что она приобретала там. Над этим и задумывался президент Янукович. Он «посчитал и прослезился», потому что открытие рынков для конкурентоспособной, высококонкурентоспособной европейской продукции убивало производство на самой Украине и закрывало кооперационные и торговые связи с Россией. В этом была проблема. Он не отказывался, насколько я помню, от вступления в ЕС, наоборот, хотел этого. Я уж не знаю, что он сейчас сказал, но я точно знаю, что он этого хотел и стремился к этому, но на приемлемых для Украины условиях. Нас это никак не касалось – только с той точки зрения, что затрагивало наши интересы при кооперационных связях. А так, пожалуйста, мы никогда не возражали против каких-то интеграционных начал в политике Украины на европейском направлении. Что касается вопросов безопасности, это другое дело. Тот же президент Янукович и председатель правительства Украины тогда были против втягивания Украины в НАТО, а это вопрос, который нас напрямую касался и касается с точки зрения обеспечения долгосрочных интересов России в области безопасности. Что сделали? В результате госпереворота устранили Януковича от власти, устранили человека, который был против вступления Украины в НАТО, и с помощью кровавого переворота в Киеве к власти привели те силы, которые были за вступление и сейчас продолжают уповать на вступление Украины в НАТО. Вот это нас совершенно не устраивает. Даже несмотря на то, что каждая страна имеет право выбора в обеспечении своей собственной безопасности, но без оглядки на безопасность самой России такие вопросы не решаются, потому что есть общее правило, выраженное и записанное в европейских документах: безопасность одной страны не может быть обеспечена за счёт безопасности другой. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: I do not know how you understood it. Now I will tell how everything actually takes shape, and it takes shape as follows. Indeed, Ukraine set itself the task, and sets it now, of joining the EU. And I repeat: this is Ukraine's lawful choice, how to build its international ties, how to secure its interests in the field of the economy, with whom to conclude unions. The problem for us in that period, when Yanukovych was president, consisted in the fact that Ukraine's fitting into the European system of economic relations was connected for us with some problems of an economic character, because Ukraine was part of a free-trade zone, our customs borders were open, and for us this had definite consequences. And Ukraine had to compare, to lay on the scales, what it was losing in contacts with us in direct monetary expression and in cooperation, and what it was acquiring there. This is what President Yanukovych was pondering. He "counted and wept," because opening the markets to competitive, highly competitive European products was killing production in Ukraine itself and closing cooperation and trade ties with Russia. That was the problem. He was not refusing, so far as I remember, to join the EU; on the contrary, he wanted this. I do not know what he has said now, but I know for certain that he wanted this and strove for it, but on conditions acceptable to Ukraine. This did not concern us in any way — only from the point of view that it touched our interests in cooperation ties. Otherwise, please, we never objected to any integrative beginnings in Ukraine's policy in the European direction. As for questions of security, that is another matter. That same President Yanukovych and the chairman of the government of Ukraine then were against dragging Ukraine into NATO, and this is a question that concerned us directly and concerns us from the point of view of ensuring Russia's long-term interests in the field of security. What did they do? As a result of a coup d'état they removed Yanukovych from power, removed a person who was against Ukraine's joining NATO, and with the help of a bloody coup in Kiev brought to power those forces that were for joining and now continue to count on Ukraine's joining NATO. This does not suit us at all. Even despite the fact that every country has the right of choice in ensuring its own security, such questions are not decided without regard to the security of Russia itself, because there is a general rule, expressed and written down in European documents: the security of one country cannot be ensured at the expense of the security of another. |
| М.Рыбакова: Благодарю Вас. Россия, тем более Дальний Восток, – про богатства сейчас поговорим – естественно, обладает огромными ресурсными богатствами. Это касается в том числе и рыбных ресурсов. Я на такую любопытную статистику наткнулась, просто хочу с Вами поделиться. Если верить цифрам, в 2024 году экспорт краба из России в Китай достиг исторического рекорда, 41 тысяча с лишним тонн. Для сравнения: поставки российского краба на внутренний рынок за тот же период составили около восьми тысяч тонн. То есть какой-то у нас крабовый парадокс получается: реально краб ходит боком, и мимо нас он идёт в сторону Кореи, Японии и Китая. Как Вам кажется, достаточно ли вообще в стране у портов перерабатывающих мощностей, чтобы его не просто вылавливать и продавать куда-то, на аукционы вывозить, а действительно зарабатывать на переработке и продавать на внутреннем рынке? Потому что, например, живой краб, он самый дорогой, и, насколько я знаю, все живовозы едут не в нашу сторону. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. Russia, especially the Far East—we will talk about riches now—naturally possesses enormous natural resource wealth. This includes fishery resources. I came across some interesting statistics and simply want to share them with you. If the figures are to be believed, in 2024 crab exports from Russia to China reached an all-time record of more than 41 thousand tonnes. By comparison, supplies of Russian crab to the domestic market over the same period amounted to around eight thousand tonnes. So we have some kind of crab paradox: crabs really do walk sideways, and they go past us toward Korea, Japan, and China. Do you think the country has enough processing capacity near its ports to do more than simply catch it and sell it somewhere, take it to auctions, but actually earn money from processing and sell it on the domestic market? Because, for example, live crab is the most expensive, and as far as I know all the live-catch carriers are heading away from us. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Wonderful. Since we mentioned transport and accessibility, intraregional flights in the Russian Far East are not, of course, a matter of comfort but a matter of survival. There is simply no other way to reach some areas with such long distances. I would like to tell you a brief story. I have a friend who lives in Khabarovsk. He needed to fly to Vladivostok but there were no direct tickets available. I think everybody who lives here knows how difficult it is to grab an intraregional flight ticket. And you wouldn’t want to drive 750 km. I hear from drivers they travel with two spare tyres just in case. Anyway, my friend bought a connecting flight through Moscow and flew from Khabarovsk first to Moscow, where he spent four hours in an airport, then boarded a plane and flew to Vladivostok. So, he did all that and, as their plane was approaching Vladivostok, due to adverse weather, their flight was diverted to a backup airfield in Khabarovsk. Overall, he spent 24 hours flying from Khabarovsk to Khabarovsk. Clearly, it is an anecdote but I think it explains a lot. When do you think we can resolve the issue of medium-haul aircraft? Today, I’ve also come across news that the State Transport Leasing Company signed an agreement to lease 50 Baikal aircraft. Perhaps I have missed something. Is Mr Trutnev here? I can’t see him. We have spoken and he told me that there is no such thing as a Baikal aircraft. They bought an aircraft that does not exist yet. I am a little confused. I don’t know, perhaps there is a reason to stop by the stand of the Prosecutor General’s Office? Do these aircraft exist or not, Mr President? And what are the prospects of intraregional flights in the Russian Far East? |
| В.Путин: Дело не в ценах, хотя это один из ключевых вопросов. Для того чтобы улучшить или увеличить снабжение этим продуктом российских регионов, нужно решать прежде всего вопрос с логистикой. У нас ведь всё перевозится как? Либо по железной дороге, что дорого, либо на самолётах, что ещё дороже. В этом же проблема. Доставка морепродуктов – и рыбы, и краба отсюда – идёт в дорогие рестораны. Почему? На самолётах приходится возить. Если бы мы смогли наладить транспортировку и выстроить логистику соответствующим образом, то это бы поменяло ситуацию. Но должен сказать, что в целом рыбная продукция здесь, на Дальнем Востоке, если мне память не изменяет, – 75 процентов вылова не только краба, а вообще морепродуктов. 75 процентов – всего вылова в Российской Федерации, а 65 процентов – это переработка, здесь тоже происходит. Логистика на сегодняшний день – самый тонкий вопрос. Будем над этим работать. Мы сейчас уделяем этому серьёзное внимание и будем наращивать возможности по распределению морских продуктов, в том числе и краба, во все регионы Российской Федерации. Такая проблема есть. Тем более что мы по нормам Минздрава не дотягиваем пока до норм потребления морепродуктов и рыбы. По-моему, 28 килограммов нужно на душу населения в год, а сейчас где-то 23–23,5 килограмма на душу населения, на граждан России реализуем. Поэтому здесь есть над чем поработать. Мы думаем над этим, и надеюсь, эта проблема будет решена. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: The point is not the prices, although that is one of the key questions. In order to improve or increase the supply of this product to the Russian regions, one must above all solve the question of logistics. How is everything carried with us, after all? Either by rail, which is expensive, or by airplane, which is still more expensive. That is the problem. The delivery of seafood — both fish and crab from here — goes to expensive restaurants. Why? It has to be carried by airplane. If we could arrange transportation and build the logistics in the corresponding way, that would change the situation. But I must say that on the whole fish products here, in the Far East, if my memory does not fail me, are 75 percent of the catch, not only of crab but of seafood in general. 75 percent of the whole catch in the Russian Federation, and 65 percent is the processing; that takes place here too. Logistics today is the thinnest question. We will work on this. We are now giving this serious attention and will build up the possibilities for distributing marine products, including crab, to all the regions of the Russian Federation. Such a problem exists. All the more so since, by the norms of the Ministry of Health, we do not yet reach the norms of consumption of seafood and fish. In my view 28 kilograms a year are needed per head of population, and now we sell somewhere around 23–23.5 kilograms per head of population, per citizen of Russia. So there is something to work on here. We are thinking about this, and I hope this problem will be solved. |
| М.Рыбакова: Замечательно. Тогда, уж если мы с Вами заикнулись про транспорт, про доступность, на Дальнем Востоке внутренние перелёты – это, конечно, не вопрос комфорта, это вопрос выживания, потому что такие расстояния, что по-другому просто не добраться до каких-то уголков. Я хочу сначала маленькую историю рассказать. У меня друг есть, он живёт в Хабаровске. Ему надо было по делам слетать во Владивосток, а билетов не было во Владивосток. Я думаю, что все, кто здесь живёт, знают, что довольно сложно поймать билет на внутренний рейс. На машине ехать не то чтобы сильно хочется – 750 километров. Мне водители сказали, что они даже две покрышки дополнительно с собой берут на всякий случай. В общем, он берёт стыковочный билет через Москву, то есть он летит из Хабаровска в Москву, там четыре часа проводит в аэропорту, садится на самолёт и, соответственно, летит во Владивосток. Он все эти процедуры проделывает, и уже на подлёте к Владивостоку из-за плохой погоды их рейс не сажают, отправляют на запасной аэродром в Хабаровск. То есть человек летел сутки из Хабаровска в Хабаровск. Понятно, что это такая шутка, но она, мне кажется, очень многое объясняет. Как Вам кажется, когда мы решим вопрос со среднемагистральными самолётами? Я просто сегодня ещё наткнулась на информацию о том, что Государственная транспортная лизинговая компания подписала соглашение о поставке, лизинге, 50 самолётов «Байкал». Я, может, что-то упустила, не вижу, Юрий Петрович Трутнев здесь есть? Мы с ним разговаривали, он мне сказал, что никакого «Байкала» нет. То есть купили самолёт, которого ещё нет. Я просто немножко запуталась. Может быть, есть смысл, не знаю, на стенд Генпрокуратуры заглянуть? То есть существуют эти самолёты, Владимир Владимирович, или нет? И вообще, какие перспективы у внутренних перелётов на территории Дальнего Востока? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Wonderful. Since we have touched on transport and accessibility, domestic flights in the Far East are, of course, not a matter of comfort but of survival, because the distances are such that there is simply no other way to reach some places. First I want to tell a little story. I have a friend who lives in Khabarovsk. He needed to fly to Vladivostok on business, but there were no tickets to Vladivostok. I think everyone who lives here knows it is quite difficult to get a ticket for a domestic flight. Driving is not particularly appealing: 750 kilometers. Drivers told me they even take two extra tires along just in case. Anyway, he gets a connecting ticket via Moscow, meaning he flies from Khabarovsk to Moscow, spends four hours at the airport, boards a plane and then flies to Vladivostok. He goes through all these procedures, and as they approach Vladivostok, bad weather prevents their flight from landing, so they are diverted to the alternate airport in Khabarovsk. So the man spent a whole day flying from Khabarovsk to Khabarovsk. Clearly this is something of a joke, but I think it explains a great deal. When do you think we will resolve the issue of medium-haul aircraft? Just today I also came across information that the State Transport Leasing Company signed an agreement for the supply, the leasing, of 50 Baikal aircraft. Perhaps I missed something—I do not see him, is Yury Petrovich Trutnev here? We spoke, and he told me there is no Baikal. So they bought a plane that does not yet exist. I am just a little confused. Perhaps it would make sense, I do not know, to stop by the Prosecutor General's Office stand? So do these planes exist, Vladimir Vladimirovich, or not? And in general, what are the prospects for domestic flights in the Far East? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you very much. In your speech, you mentioned investment growth; and indeed, foreign investment has increased over the past four years. My question is this: if we look at the investment climate as a whole, foreign investment mainly comes from a few major countries, including China. Also, it seemed to me that in your speech, you placed considerable emphasis on technological progress, underscoring the need to develop knowledge-intensive and complex industries. Yet, and this is no secret to anyone, investment is still largely directed toward commodity sectors such as mining, oil, gas, coal, and the infrastructure that supports them. So, perhaps a logical question would be: is there a risk of falling into a commodity trap, where we would be perceived exclusively as an investment partner in these areas? |
| В.Путин: К сожалению, после того как в советское время здесь была достаточно неплохая налажена сеть местных авиалиний, она была утрачена в 90-е годы, и в начале 2000-х также внимание не особо уделялось этому, приходилось и сейчас ещё приходится, как Вы сейчас упомянули про Вашего знакомого, летать из одного города, даже крупного города региона, в другой через Москву. Но у нас уже создана местная авиакомпания. Конечно, здесь ключевой вопрос насыщения её транспортными средствами, среднемагистральными, для небольших перелётов. Много здесь планов есть у Правительства, Минторга, у наших предприятий. К сожалению, вынужден согласиться, решается это не так быстро, как бы хотелось. Вот и «Байкал», и другие есть небольшие самолёты, которые должны прийти на смену Ан-2, всё-таки эта работа идёт. Не буду скрывать, мы иногда ругаемся с некоторыми нашими, как говорили в своё время, ответработниками. Они должны будут ускорить эту работу, реализацию этих планов. Планы есть, и модели конкретные есть. Они и в воздух уже подняты и летают, и мне их показывали. Но нужно, чтобы началось их серийное производство и они выходили на линии. Безусловно, будем всё делать для того, чтобы этот процесс ускорить. То, что это проблема, и то, что она до сих пор существует, – известно. Будем работать над её решением. Сейчас не буду перечислять всё: это «Байкал» и много других всяких самолётов. Мне их показывали, и в воздухе смотрели, но нужно переходить к серийному производству. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: Unfortunately, after a fairly decent network of local airlines had been set up here in Soviet times, it was lost in the 90s, and at the beginning of the 2000s attention was not particularly given to this either; one had to, and still has to, as you have just mentioned about an acquaintance of yours, fly from one city, even a large city of the region, to another via Moscow. But we have already created a local airline. Of course the key question here is filling it with means of transport, medium-haul ones, for short flights. The Government, the Ministry of Trade, and our enterprises have many plans here. Unfortunately I am forced to agree: this is not being solved as quickly as one would like. There is the Baikal, and there are other small aircraft that are to take the place of the An-2; this work is going on all the same. I will not conceal that we sometimes quarrel with some of our, as they used to say in their time, responsible officials. They will have to speed up this work, the carrying out of these plans. The plans exist, and specific models exist. They have already been taken into the air and fly, and they have been shown to me. But their serial production needs to begin, and they need to go onto the routes. We will certainly do everything to speed this process up. That this is a problem, and that it still exists, is known. We will work on solving it. I will not list everything now: this is the Baikal and many other aircraft of every kind. They were shown to me, and we looked at them in the air, but one must move on to serial production. |
| М.Рыбакова: Спасибо большое. Вы говорили в своём выступлении об инвестиционном приросте, и зарубежные инвестиции показывают всё-таки рост в соотношениях за последние четыре года. У меня какой вопрос? Если посмотреть в целом на инвестиционный климат и на то, откуда эти зарубежные инвестиции идут, в основном это несколько самых крупных стран, и Китай в том числе. Также в своём выступлении, мне показалось, что Вы очень много уделили внимания технологическому прогрессу, тому, что нужно развивать наукоёмкие, сложные производства. При этом всё равно инвестиции в основном – это, собственно, ни для кого не секрет – идут в какие-то ресурсные истории: это добыча, нефть, газ, уголь и плюс инфраструктура под них. Здесь, наверное, логический вопрос возникает: нет ли какого-то риска у нас застрять именно в этой сырьевой ловушке, что нас бы видели исключительно как инвестиционного партнёра такого рода? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you very much. In your speech you spoke about investment growth, and foreign investment has, after all, shown proportional growth over the past four years. What is my question? If we look at the investment climate overall and where this foreign investment is coming from, it is mainly several of the largest countries, including China. Also, it seemed to me that in your speech you devoted a great deal of attention to technological progress and the need to develop knowledge-intensive, complex industries. At the same time, investment still mainly—and this is no secret to anyone—goes into resource-related ventures: extraction, oil, gas, coal, plus the infrastructure for them. A logical question probably arises here: is there some risk of our getting stuck in precisely this raw-materials trap, of being seen exclusively as an investment partner of this kind? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. I would like to ask about the economy more broadly… |
| В.Путин: Нет, такой ловушки и таких угроз нет, то есть они бы были, если бы мы ничего не делали. Вы же обратили внимание на моё выступление, а там одна из главных задач, если не главная, не центральная, не ключевая, заключается в том, что мы должны придать региону в целом, – сейчас мы речь ведём об инвестициях в регионе, – инновационный характер. Это не проблема наших партнёров в том, что они вкладывают в добычу минеральных ресурсов. Это наша проблема. Мы должны создать условия для развития инновационных отраслей экономики, создать условия для того, чтобы люди, нужные для работы в этих сферах, сюда приезжали, – собственно, тенденция такая уже есть, как я сказал, – чтобы мы здесь создавали соответствующую среду. Уверяю вас, наши партнёры с удовольствием будут вкладывать в те перспективные предприятия, реализация планов в отношении которых будет приносить и им пользу. Только так это работает, по-другому никак. Уверен, что мы все эти планы будем реализовывать. Кстати сказать, мы с нашими друзьями, партнёрами сейчас обсуждали в Пекине эти вопросы. Мы в целом должны выстраивать нашу работу, настраивая её на высокотехнологичные секторы экономики. Мы так и будем делать. Только в этом будущее наших экономик и наших стран, только в этом наш общий успех. Это касается и регионов Дальнего Востока. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: No, there is no such trap and there are no such threats; that is, there would be if we were doing nothing. You did notice my remarks, and there one of the main tasks, if not the main one, not the central one, not the key one, consists in our having to give the region as a whole — we are now speaking of investment in the region — an innovative character. It is not our partners' problem that they invest in the extraction of mineral resources. It is our problem. We must create the conditions for developing innovative branches of the economy, create the conditions so that the people needed for work in these spheres come here — such a tendency already exists, as I said — so that we create the corresponding environment here. I assure you, our partners will gladly invest in those promising enterprises the realization of whose plans will bring them benefit too. Only this way does it work; there is no other way. I am sure we will carry out all these plans. By the way, we were just discussing these questions in Beijing with our friends and partners. On the whole we must build our work, setting it toward the high-technology sectors of the economy. And so we will. Only in this lies the future of our economies and of our countries, only in this our common success. This concerns the regions of the Far East too. |
| М.Рыбакова: Благодарю. Хочется спросить в целом про экономику… |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. I would like to ask about the economy in general… |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. I have a joke. I did not know how this plenary session would go so I checked a job hunt website in Vladivostok. By the way, I did not find a single job opening for a television presenter but I was curious to see what else is offered. What jobs and professions are really in demand here? I have mostly seen driver jobs – with salaries of up to 400,000 rubles, by the way – junior executives or pressing operators. Mr President, I have hardly seen any jobs for IT professionals. Even the most in-demand professionals section did not mention IT. I found one job opening in software development, but this is not much. According to a SberIndex analysis, businesses in the Russian Far East are growing faster than on average in the country – and you said so yourself. And yet, this is mainly due to building large production facilities and production of mineral resources. The IT sector is lagging behind. In your opinion, what could solve this problem if employers start seeking IT professionals? Are they to be ‘imported’? How can the Far East attract highly qualified technology professionals and incentivise them to stay here and treat this region as their home rather than a temporary placement? |
| В.Путин: Кстати, – я на господина Миллера посмотрел, – когда мы говорим о минеральных ресурсах: это ведь тоже примитивное понимание, что дырку просверлили – и нефть пошла, и с газом то же самое. Вот господин Михельсон сидит – он знает, что такое сжиженный природный газ. Технологий, которых он добился, в мире не существует – это высокотехнологичная сфера. Я без всякого преувеличения говорю, это не шутка, это не преувеличение, не гипербола какая-то. То же самое касается и газовой сферы. Сотрудничество у «Газпрома» с нашими китайскими друзьями и партнёрами не ограничивается только поставкой. У них так называемое стратегическое партнёрство, которое заключается в том, что совместно люди работают над высокотехнологичными сферами, в том числе и газовой. А там есть над чем поработать: для того, чтобы всё это было эффективно, максимально выгодно и для тех, кто поставляет, и для тех, кто покупает, должно быть реализовано большое количество высокотехнологичных решений. Эта работа в рамках стратегического партнёрства между заинтересованными компаниями налажена, она идёт. Поэтому вопрос только в том, что нужно расширять её на смежные сферы и на перспективные, такие как искусственный интеллект и так далее. Конечно, мы будем это делать. У нас договорённость с тем же самым Китаем в области авиации. Сейчас я перемещусь в другой город России, будем там заниматься двигателестроением. У нас есть планы в области авиации, а авиация, кстати говоря, на Дальнем Востоке представлена неплохо – и боевая, и частично гражданская. «Суперджет-100» на Дальнем Востоке же производится. Нам есть над чем работать, так же и в судостроении. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: By the way — I looked at Mr. Miller — when we speak of mineral resources: it is also a primitive understanding that one drilled a hole and the oil flowed, and the same with gas. Here sits Mr. Mikhelson — he knows what liquefied natural gas is. The technologies he has achieved do not exist in the world — this is a high-technology sphere. I say this without any exaggeration; this is not a joke, not an exaggeration, not some hyperbole. The same concerns the gas sphere too. Gazprom's cooperation with our Chinese friends and partners is not limited to supply alone. They have a so-called strategic partnership, which consists in people working jointly on high-technology spheres, including gas. And there is something to work on there: in order for all this to be effective, maximally advantageous both for those who supply and for those who buy, a large number of high-technology solutions must be realized. This work within the framework of the strategic partnership between the interested companies has been arranged; it is going on. So the question is only that it needs to be expanded to adjacent spheres and to promising ones, such as artificial intelligence and so on. Of course we will do this. We have an agreement with that same China in the field of aviation. Now I will move to another city of Russia; we will be occupied there with engine-building. We have plans in the field of aviation, and aviation, by the way, is represented not badly in the Far East — both combat aviation and, in part, civil. The Superjet-100 is produced in the Far East, after all. We have something to work on, and likewise in shipbuilding. |
| М.Рыбакова: Благодарю. Хочется пошутить, что не знала, как закончится и пройдёт наша пленарка, поэтому залезла на сайт по поиску работы во Владивостоке. Не нашла ни одной телеведущей, кстати, среди вакансий, но с любопытством изучила. Думаю: а кто действительно нужен, какие требуются специальности сегодня здесь? В основном водители, кстати, зарплаты до 400 тысяч, менеджеры, гладильщицы. Я, Владимир Владимирович, почти не нашла айтишников. То есть даже в запросах на рынке от работодателя айтишников не было. Была одна вакансия разработчика, но это, мягко говоря, негусто. Если верить аналитике, которую «СберИндекс» недавно предоставлял, обороты бизнеса на Дальнем Востоке, – и Вы об этом говорили, – быстрее растут среднероссийских, но в основном это всё равно происходит за счёт организации крупных производств и за счёт добычи, IT отстаёт. Как Вам кажется, как эту проблему, если вдруг такой запрос действительно есть у работодателей, можно решить? Их завозить, этих айтишников? Как привлекать этих высококвалифицированных специалистов в технологиях оставаться здесь, на Дальнем Востоке, и, собственно, относиться к этому краю как к дому, а не как к вахте, временному месту? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. I feel like joking that I did not know how our plenary session would go or end, so I went onto a job-search website in Vladivostok. Incidentally, I did not find a single vacancy for a female television presenter, but I studied the listings with interest. I thought: who is actually needed, what specialties are in demand here today? Mainly drivers, incidentally with salaries of up to 400 thousand, managers, and ironing workers. Vladimir Vladimirovich, I found almost no IT professionals. That is, even in employers’ requests on the market there were no IT professionals. There was one developer vacancy, but that is slim pickings, to put it mildly. According to the analysis recently provided by SberIndex, business turnover in the Far East—and you spoke about this—is growing faster than the Russian average, but this is still mainly due to the establishment of large production facilities and to extraction; IT is lagging behind. How do you think this problem can be solved, if employers really do have such a demand? Should these IT professionals be brought in? How can we attract these highly qualified technology specialists to stay here in the Far East and actually regard this region as home, rather than as a rotational assignment, a temporary place? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Mr President, another aspect concerns the exorbitant wage demands among blue-collar workers as drivers want 400,000 rubles and welders want 500,000, for example. This is another side of the story. How can this matter be resolved in your opinion? Is it appropriate today to seek such high wages? |
| В.Путин: Достаточно много уделил этому внимания в своём выступлении и уже сказал о том, что молодые люди едут сюда, видят перспективу, они здесь нужны, и такая тенденция есть. Но её нужно подкрепить, эту тенденцию, со стороны государства, поддержать, сформировать новый облик экономического развития региона, прежде всего за счёт высоких технологий. Не знаю, что на сайтах Вы обнаружили, но знаю точно, мне руководители компаний, которые здесь работают, говорят об этом постоянно: не хватает высококвалифицированных специалистов – на той же «Звезде», в судостроении, где такого крупнотоннажного флота, который мы можем строить на «Звезде», никогда у нас не было. Нам нужны специалисты в области авиации здесь. И, безусловно, нужно развивать всё, что связано с современными технологиями, для того чтобы не только осваивать минеральные богатства Дальнего Востока и Арктики, но и сделать этот регион частью высокотехнологичного производства в России в целом. Именно на это мы и настраиваемся, именно это и будет новым этапом развития региона. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: I gave this quite a lot of attention in my remarks, and I have already said that young people come here, see a prospect, that they are needed here, and that such a tendency exists. But this tendency must be reinforced from the side of the state, supported, and a new shape of the region's economic development formed, above all through high technologies. I do not know what you found on the websites, but I know for certain that the heads of the companies working here tell me this constantly: there are not enough highly qualified specialists — at that same Zvezda, in shipbuilding, where a large-tonnage fleet of the kind we can build at Zvezda has never existed here. We need aviation specialists here. And of course everything connected with modern technologies must be developed, so as not only to develop the mineral wealth of the Far East and the Arctic, but also to make this region part of high-technology production in Russia as a whole. It is precisely for this that we are setting our course, and precisely this will be the new stage in the development of the region. |
| М.Рыбакова: Владимир Владимирович, следом эта история с какими-то сумасшедшими зарплатами у рабочих профессий: водитель – 400 тысяч, сварщик – 500 тысяч. Это другая сторона медали, скажем так. Каким образом, как Вам кажется, она может и должна решаться? Нормально ли, что они такие деньги хотят сейчас? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Vladimir Vladimirovich, following on from this is the issue of some crazy salaries in blue-collar occupations: a driver—400 thousand, a welder—500 thousand. This is the other side of the coin, so to speak. How do you think it can and should be addressed? Is it normal that they want this kind of money now? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Certainly. |
| В.Путин: Мне кажется, что чем больше люди получают, тем лучше. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: It seems to me that the more people receive, the better. |
| М.Рыбакова: Тут поддерживаю. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: I agree on that. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. Of course, since we are talking about wages, I would really like to discuss what is happening with the Russian economy in general. Many statements have been made on the sidelines of the forum. |
| В.Путин: Это имеет значение. Я же сказал, что это экономическая категория, потому что если больше зарплата – больше человек покупает, больше покупает – значит, больше востребованной на рынке нашей продукции, потому что люди, как правило, стараются приобрести продукты, произведённые на наших предприятиях, и так далее. То есть это тоже фактор экономического характера и позитивный фактор. Кроме того, люди жить лучше начинают. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: This does matter. I did say that this is an economic category, because if the wage is higher, a person buys more; if he buys more, that means more of our output is in demand on the market, because people, as a rule, try to acquire products made at our enterprises, and so on. That is, this too is a factor of an economic character, and a positive factor. Besides, people begin to live better. |
| М.Рыбакова: Благодарю. Естественно, если мы говорим о зарплатах, то очень хочется поговорить в целом о том, что происходит с российской экономикой. Много звучало на полях форума заявлений. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. Naturally, if we are talking about salaries, I would very much like to talk about what is happening with the Russian economy overall. Many statements have been made on the sidelines of the forum. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Yes, of course, Mr President. But you see, I have so many questions for you. I will certainly have questions for the other guests. For now, I would like to focus on what is happening in the economy. German Gref says he has noted signs of technical stagnation in the Russian economy. Do you agree with this? |
| В.Путин: Я здесь не один. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: I am not alone here. |
| М.Рыбакова: Да, я понимаю, Владимир Владимирович. Но видите, у меня столько к Вам вопросов. Я обязательно гостям нашим тоже их задам. Сейчас всё-таки чуть-чуть хочу остановиться как раз на том, что происходит с экономикой. Герман Греф говорил о том, что констатирует техническую стагнацию российской экономики. Вы вообще с этим согласны? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Yes, I understand, Vladimir Vladimirovich. But you see, I have so many questions for you. I will certainly ask our guests questions too. For now, I would still like to dwell a little on precisely what is happening with the economy. German Gref said that he observes technical stagnation in the Russian economy. Do you agree with that at all? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Mr Gref, there you go. |
| В.Путин: Нет. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: No. |
| М.Рыбакова: Герман Оскарович, пока так. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: German Oskarovich, that is how it is for now. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Mr Kostin often complains about the key rate. |
| В.Путин: Он знает, мы с ним в постоянном контакте. Он участник многих наших совещаний, которые проводятся в том числе у меня с Правительством, Центральным банком. У некоторых членов Правительства такое же мнение, связанное с тем, что Центральный банк зажимает, держит высокую ставку, а держит он для того, чтобы побороть инфляцию. Вы сами жаловались на цены в магазинах. Цель такая, чтобы не только в магазинах, но и среди участников экономической деятельности цены «припали», чтобы они не росли. Можно говорить о чём угодно, сейчас не хочу давать оценок. У меня есть своё мнение, разумеется, но сейчас не хочу давать оценок работе Центрального банка. Кстати говоря, в международном финансовом сообществе наш Центральный банк высоко котируется. Уверяю вас, я знаю об этом не понаслышке. Но мы же целенаправленно, специально это делаем. У нас 4,3 процента рост ВВП был в позапрошлом году, в прошлом – 4,4 процента, инфляция подросла. Нам нужно решать проблемы макроэкономического характера, а для этого нужно обеспечить мягкую, спокойную «посадку» экономики, чтобы обеспечить макроэкономические показатели, затормозить рост цен. Да, я знаю прекрасно, мы же каждый день общаемся, вчера только об этом говорили. Грефа спросите: остановилось кредитование или нет? Нет. Темпы снизились. Знаю, в некоторых отраслях ситуация непростая, и здесь сидящие люди это тоже прекрасно понимают. Но все также понимают, что если инфляция будет захлёстывать экономику, то ничего хорошего не будет, потому что невозможно ничего прогнозировать даже на десять дней, не то что на годы вперёд. Это тонкий вопрос. Вот банки, спросите руководителя ВТБ – он тоже вам скажет: да, перегибают чего-то, уже переморозили. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: He knows; we are in constant contact with him. He is a participant in many of our meetings, which are held including with me, with the Government, and the Central Bank. Some members of the Government have the same opinion, connected with the view that the Central Bank is squeezing, is holding a high rate, and it holds it in order to overcome inflation. You yourselves complained about prices in the shops. The aim is that prices would "settle" not only in the shops but also among the participants in economic activity, so that they would not grow. One can talk about anything one likes; I do not want to give assessments now. I have my own opinion, of course, but I do not want now to give assessments of the Central Bank's work. By the way, in the international financial community our Central Bank is rated highly. I assure you, I know this not by hearsay. But we are doing this purposefully, deliberately. We had 4.3 percent GDP growth the year before last, and last year 4.4 percent; inflation has risen. We need to solve problems of a macroeconomic character, and for this one must ensure a soft, calm "landing" of the economy, in order to secure the macroeconomic indicators and slow the growth of prices. Yes, I know this perfectly well; we communicate every day, and only yesterday we spoke of this. Ask Gref: has lending stopped or not? No. The pace has fallen. I know that in some branches the situation is not simple, and the people sitting here understand this perfectly well too. But everyone also understands that if inflation overwhelms the economy, nothing good will come of it, because it is impossible to forecast anything even ten days ahead, let alone years ahead. This is a delicate question. Take the banks; ask the head of VTB — he will tell you too: yes, they are overdoing something, they have already over-frozen it. |
| М.Рыбакова: Андрей Леонидович часто жалуется на ключевую ставку. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Andrey Leonidovich often complains about the key interest rate. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. My next question is for Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. In 2021, Laos and China launched one of the largest high-speed railways. There have been reports that the railway may be subsequently extended to Thailand. It is a major project that requires complex technology and infrastructure. My question is: is there an opportunity, a chance, or prospects for connecting the railway to Far Eastern ports? And how can this be done sooner? It would expedite both our trade and cooperation. Is this a realistic prospect? Perhaps discussions have already taken place. Sonexay Siphandone (retranslated): As for transport, we are using a modern railway that is far more advanced compared to the railway we built many years ago. As I have already said, we are turning from a country with no sea access into a country connected to others. On this project, we cooperate with China. As you have noted, we cooperate in railway development. We have successfully completed this project. Of course, the coronavirus pandemic was a certain obstacle, but we have managed to overcome these difficulties in our strategic cooperation. According to the respective initiative, I am completely certain that there is an agreement between Russia and China. If there is also an agreement between Russia, Laos and China, we will be able to transport products from Laos via China to the Far East, including to Russia. The railway may open new cooperation opportunities for Russia and ASEAN, China and ASEAN, and improve Lao products’ access to the market. I would like to stress that this is an alternative route that is faster and more sustainable. The government of Laos is considering the possibility of establishing sea routes to Vladivostok through China, potentially via Hainan or a Vietnamese port. We have already agreed on some aspects of this project to date. It would be an excellent opportunity for us to cooperate with Vietnam. We have no access to the sea but we have made an agreement with Vietnam that would help us reach both China and Russia. As for Mongolia, we could also use similar transport infrastructure to exchange products. Certainly, there are many advantages to developing the Laos-China railway network. Thank you. |
| Matching Russian passage has not been identified | Maria Rybakova: Mr President, do you have anything to say in response? |
| В.Путин: Да. И Министерство экономического развития вам будет то же самое говорить, и каждый по-своему прав. Я уверен, что в конечном итоге нам удастся решить вопросы и с поддержанием необходимых темпов экономического роста, и с минимальным уровнем инфляции. Мне кажется, для такого формата обсуждения этого достаточно. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: Yes. And the Ministry of Economic Development will tell you the same thing, and each is right in his own way. I am sure that in the end we will succeed in resolving both the maintenance of the necessary rates of economic growth and a minimal level of inflation. It seems to me that for a discussion in this format that is sufficient. |
| М.Рыбакова: Благодарю. Обращаюсь к господину Сонсаю Сипхандону. В 2021 году Лаос и Китай открыли одну из крупнейших железных дорог – я говорю сейчас о высокоскоростной магистрали. Обсуждается теперь, что она вообще будет продлена в Таиланд. Это крупный проект, он был очень сложный – и технически очень сложный, и инфраструктурно. У меня такой вопрос: есть ли возможность, какие-то шансы, перспективы связать её с портами Дальнего Востока? Как это можно ускорить? Соответственно, это ускорит и нашу торговлю, и сотрудничество. Насколько это реально? Может быть, что-то уже обсуждалось. С.Сипхандон (как переведено): Что касается транспорта, мы используем современную железную дорогу. Она намного более современная по сравнению с железной дорогой, которую мы использовали много лет назад. Как я уже говорил, мы превращаемся из страны, которая не имеет выхода [к морю], в страну, которая взаимосвязана с другими странами. Мы сотрудничаем в этом отношении с Китаем. Как Вы отметили, мы сотрудничаем в области железных дорог. Мы успешно реализовали этот проект. Конечно же, нам немного помешала пандемия коронавируса, но мы смогли преодолеть эти трудности в рамках нашего стратегического сотрудничества. В соответствии с соответствующей инициативой я полностью уверен, что есть договорённости между Россией и Китаем. Если будут договорённости между Россией, Лаосом и Китаем, то мы можем перевозить продукцию из Лаоса через Китай на Дальний Восток, в том числе и в Россию. Железная дорога может открыть возможности для сотрудничества России и АСЕАН, Китая и АСЕАН, откроет возможности для доступа на рынок наших продуктов. Хотелось бы подчеркнуть, что это альтернативный путь, он будет более быстрый и более экологичный. Наше Правительство рассматривает возможность налаживания морских маршрутов во Владивосток через Китай, может быть, через Хайнань, через вьетнамский морской порт. На данный момент мы уже достигли некоторых договорённостей. Для нас это очень хорошая возможность сотрудничества с Вьетнамом. У нас нет доступа к морю, но у нас есть эта договорённость с Вьетнамом, которая позволяет нам достигнуть и Китая, и России. Что касается Монголии. Мы также можем использовать подобную транспортную инфраструктуру, чтобы обмениваться продуктами. И, конечно же, здесь есть много преимуществ для развития железной сети Лаоса и Китая. Благодарю за внимание. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. I turn to Mr Sonexay Siphandone. In 2021 Laos and China opened one of the largest railways—I am talking about the high-speed line. It is now being discussed that it will be extended all the way to Thailand. This is a major project; it was very complex, both technically and in infrastructure terms. My question is: is there a possibility, any chance or prospect of linking it with the Far Eastern ports? How can this be accelerated? This would in turn speed up our trade and cooperation. How realistic is it? Perhaps something has already been discussed. S. Siphandone (as interpreted): As for transport, we use a modern railway. It is much more modern than the railway we used many years ago. As I have already said, we are turning from a country with no access [to the sea] into a country interconnected with other countries. We cooperate with China in this respect. As you noted, we cooperate on railways. We have successfully implemented this project. Of course, the coronavirus pandemic hindered us somewhat, but we managed to overcome these difficulties within our strategic cooperation. In accordance with the relevant initiative, I am entirely confident that there are agreements between Russia and China. If there are agreements between Russia, Laos and China, we can transport products from Laos through China to the Far East, including Russia. The railway can open opportunities for cooperation between Russia and ASEAN and between China and ASEAN, and open opportunities for our products to access markets. I would like to emphasize that this is an alternative route; it will be faster and more environmentally friendly. Our Government is considering establishing maritime routes to Vladivostok via China, perhaps via Hainan, via a Vietnamese seaport. At present, we have already reached certain agreements. This is a very good opportunity for us to cooperate with Vietnam. We have no access to the sea, but we have this agreement with Vietnam, which allows us to reach both China and Russia. As for Mongolia, we can also use similar transport infrastructure to exchange products. And of course, there are many advantages here for developing the railway network of Laos and China. Thank you for your attention. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: As for the railway tracks here, in Vladivostok, I know that it is a vexed question, I mean we want to have more and better railway tracks. The railway logistics still accounts for a large part [of infrastructure] Not large – they account for the larger part of the entire infrastructure. This is the so-called Eastern Operating Domain, the Trans-Siberian Railway and the Baikal-Amur Mainline; now a new railway has been built to Magadan, to the Sea of Okhotsk. This is a very good project and the results will be good. We will continue to develop all this. I, as well as my colleagues, constantly talk about it. This is a key development area for the Far East and the country in general. The shipment volumes have multiplied. Well, what can I say about it? We will develop the Trans-Arctic Corridor – there are things to work on – together with the Northern Sea Route. As for our friends in the Asian-Pacific region, I very much expect that all our efforts to develop transport logistics in the Far East would benefit – that was the intention – trade and economic relations with our partners, including our friends in Laos. |
| М.Рыбакова: Владимир Владимирович, есть что, так сказать, парировать в ответ? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Vladimir Vladimirovich, do you have anything to parry with in response, so to speak? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. So, welcome as they say. I want to note that this is my first time in Vladivostok. And, of course, I am very impressed both by its size and by how interesting it is. Really, it is a well-tended and, let us say, an interactive city. There is much to see here, and it has a certain authenticity. But I went on an excursion not far from here and I was, so to say, a bit surprised by the contrast. Central cities and regional centres really do look great, they are being transformed, but, to put it mildly, we certainly will not see a Zolotoy Bridge anywhere near Pevek. What do you think should be done to make remote Practically, it is all the same everywhere: the centre of the city looks one way, and the suburbs look differently. Thinking about developing our population centres so that people can live a comfortable life in any part of the city is an issue to be addressed by the municipal authorities, primarily regional authorities. As for small towns, we have a programme to develop population centres. As far as I remember, there over 800 (I think, 804) towns in the country with the population under 50,000 people, or around 50,000. This is a major programme. As regards the development of Russia’s towns and cities, there are many areas that work quite effectively for small towns. Without a doubt, this work needs to be expanded. With regard to the Far East and the Arctic, we have a separate programme that includes 22 towns and cities at the first stage. The appropriate resources have been allocated, development plans have been drawn up, and the work has begun. I have briefly mentioned some of the results, but I believe that this is one of the key areas of work. We have just discussed this with our colleagues who stood, so to speak, at the beginning of this road, who initiated this process, which turned out to be very popular and effective. I have already covered the importance of giving a new boost to economic growth. We need to bring in well-trained specialists to the region, who, of course, need adequate social conditions. There must be kindergartens, good schools, good education, and medicine. All of that should be developed in small towns as well. To reiterate, there is a properly funded programme that covers 22 towns. Of course, we will expand this work. |
| Matching Russian passage has not been identified | Maria Rybakova: Still, we are discussing spending. I am just trying to smoothly segue to the budget deficit. In 2025, it was planned at about 1.2 trillion rubles. In the summer, it grew, according to official figures, to 3.8 trillion. We are only in September now. Clearly, things may change by the end of the year. I even heard a figure of up to eight trillion rubles. Again, I am not an economist, and I have no idea if it is possible or realistic at all. How do you think this can even out? What mechanisms are planned to be used in the first place? |
| В.Путин: Нет, мы это обсуждаем с нашими друзьями из Лаоса, и только вчера тоже об этом говорили. Мы в контакте и с нашими партнёрами из третьих стран, в том числе из Вьетнама. Мы действительно обсуждаем все эти логистические возможности, говорим о том, как можно было бы это расширить. На мой взгляд, перспективы хорошие. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: No, we are discussing this with our friends from Laos, and only yesterday we spoke about it as well. We are also in contact with our partners from third countries, including from Vietnam. We are indeed discussing all these logistical possibilities and talking about how this could be expanded. In my view the prospects are good. |
| М.Рыбакова: Что касается железнодорожных путей здесь, во Владивостоке. Я знаю, что это такой больной вопрос, то есть хочется, чтобы их было больше, чтобы они были лучше. Железнодорожная логистика всё-таки большую часть занимает именно на территории Дальнего Востока. Будет ли обновление? Вы тоже говорили об этом. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: As for railway lines here in Vladivostok. I know that this is a sore point: people want more of them and want them to be better. Rail logistics does, after all, account for the greater part specifically in the Far East. Will there be upgrades? You spoke about this too. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Mr President, I read the other day, and it was discussed during the forum sessions as well, that the Finance Ministry and, I think, Sberbank – (Addressing German Gref.) – is that correct, Mr Gref? – are planning to introduce artificial intelligence for budget work, to have the artificial intelligence somehow help form the budget? If I understood it correctly. Mr President, how do you feel about the idea of using AI this way? |
| 4 Infrastructure and Logistics (Transport Corridors) | |
| В.Путин: Они не большую – они б о льшую занимают часть всей инфраструктуры. Это так называемый Восточный полигон, это Транссиб, БАМ, сейчас новая дорога построена в сторону Магадана, к Охотскому морю. Это очень хороший проект, и результаты хорошие. Будем дальше это всё развивать. Я об этом говорю постоянно, коллеги об этом говорят. Это одно из ключевых направлений развития для Дальнего Востока, да и для страны в целом. Объёмы перевозок многократно увеличились. Ну что об этом говорить? Будем Трансарктический коридор развивать – есть над чем работать – вместе с Северным морским путём. Что касается наших друзей в странах Азиатско-Тихоокеанского региона, очень рассчитываю на то, что все наши усилия по развитию транспортной логистики в регионах Дальнего Востока благотворно скажутся – на это и рассчитано – на торговых и экономических отношениях с нашими партнёрами, в том числе и с нашими друзьями в Лаосе. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: They occupy not a large part — they occupy the greater part of the whole infrastructure. This is the so-called Eastern Polygon: the Trans-Siberian, the BAM; a new road has now been built toward Magadan, to the Sea of Okhotsk. This is a very good project, and the results are good. We will go on developing all of this. I speak of this constantly; colleagues speak of this. This is one of the key directions of development for the Far East, and for the country as a whole. The volumes of freight have increased many times over. Well, what is there to say? We will develop the Trans-Arctic corridor — there is something to work on — together with the Northern Sea Route. As for our friends in the countries of the Asia-Pacific region, I count very much on all our efforts to develop transport logistics in the regions of the Far East having a beneficial effect — and that is what they are meant to do — on trade and economic relations with our partners, including with our friends in Laos. |
| М.Рыбакова: Спасибо. Так что добро пожаловать, как говорится. Хочется отметить, что я во Владивостоке первый раз. И, конечно, под огромным впечатлением и от масштабов, и от того, какой интересный город. Действительно, он ухоженный, он, скажем так, интерактивный, здесь есть что посмотреть, есть какая-то своя аутентичность. Но я отъезжала недалеко на экскурсию, и меня, скажем так, контраст слегка удивил. Всё равно центральные краевые города очень здорово выглядят, они очень сильно преображаются, но, мягко скажем, в стороне Певека Золотого моста мы точно не увидим. Как Вам кажется, как сделать так, чтобы и удалённым городкам было комфортно, чтобы там тоже была какая-то своя аутентичность и красота, инфраструктурная в том числе? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. So welcome, as they say. I would like to note that this is my first time in Vladivostok. And of course I am enormously impressed both by its scale and by what an interesting city it is. It really is well maintained; it is, shall we say, interactive, there is plenty to see here, and it has an authenticity of its own. But I went a short distance away on an excursion, and the contrast, shall we say, surprised me a little. The central regional cities still look very good and are undergoing enormous transformations, but, to put it mildly, we certainly will not see a Golden Bridge out toward Pevek. How do you think we can make even remote small towns comfortable, so that they too have an authenticity and beauty of their own, including in their infrastructure? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Then, the ball goes to Mr Li. China has achieved quite significant success in the field of AI and is now among the leaders. In fact, the American and the Chinese neural networks are probably the two most popular ones. I know that China has been actively developing the platform economy for a long time now. This is a completely innovative type of economic activity. We are actively implementing these processes as well. I have a question. How do you generally assess this leadership? What does China plan to do to keep cooperation between AI and the state going? What will it look like? What is the plan? Li Hongzhong (retranslated): Thank you for your question. You have touched on a critically important topic. AI is a way for all of humanity to achieve progress. AI is a new production force that drives our evolution, and it is very important to develop it. All countries around the world, including China, Russia, the United States and other countries, pay great attention to developing AI and promoting its technologies. President Xi Jinping said in 2023 that the world will advance just four main principles of AI development: its universal popularisation, its further advancement, and our joint use of human and machine resources, as well as the promotion of these technologies in our everyday lives. These principles have been put forward. In general, we will be implementing these principles in approximately three areas, such as scientific and technological innovations, and scientific and technological development. Innovation is the central element of developing the AI concept. Increasing the intended capacity, the computing capacity, and creating neural networks and models. This is connected with the development of high technology and the implementation of high-tech development plans overall. This is connected, of course, with the training of specialists and personnel management. This, of course, helps us train personnel. We are creating new platforms. The United States is, without a doubt, leading here, but nevertheless China is constantly making great efforts to achieve an advantage in this area. For example, artificial intelligence. The level of forecasting and the degree of monopolisation in China in this area has reached 60 percent. We are making progress in matters of monopolising AI technology at a pace of about 20 percent annually. This, of course, is our advantage. We patent these technologies. This is one of the key areas of development. The second component is that we are implementing our approaches, viewing AI as a path for the development of humanity, as a path to achieving well-being. President Xi Jinping put forward in his speeches the most important concept of a community of common destiny for humanity. We profess these ideas. One of the key components of this concept is an affluent and powerful state, and the promotion of general welfare for all groups of population. We are steadily following the path of promoting high technologies. Take, for instance, China’s DeepSeek neural network. This model is already widely known. It makes it possible to achieve great results. It is an advanced technology. We were able to significantly reduce the cost value and thus overcome the threshold of achieving great benefits at minimal costs. This is, of course, one of the ways to develop AI. Increasing the AI compute capacity offers new opportunities. We have discovered completely new areas of using it. Take, for example, technologies such as unmanned control of production processes. Its open source makes it possible to use these technologies efficiently. We can thus reach new heights in our work, simultaneously developing these AI technology and implementing them. Benefitting from the use of AI, we pay great attention to the environment that is necessary for using these technologies. All this is designed to increase the production and capacity. Already now, the scope of AI use in production is showing exceedingly high growth. Its capitalisation has reached 700 billion yuan representing growth of about 20 percent annually. There are many areas that can help us improve the well-being of our people, develop these technologies across the board, and improve the lives of people in our country, as well as spread these technologies in the interests of industries and enterprises. This, of course, provides us with new advantages. The multifaceted and comprehensive use of such technologies is the key area of our country’s development. We have opened the gates to the use of AI technology in people’s lives, and we would also like this technology to make progress in Russia, as you, Mr President, and our President, Comrade Xi Jinping, have already jointly stated. We must make the most out of the Russian Far East and our territories in order to develop AI in our respective countries. Thank you very much for your attention. |
| Matching Russian passage has not been identified | Maria Rybakova: Mr President, I am not going to ask you whether it is possible to use AI to run a country. My question is: Do you think that AI can be trusted with setting the key interest rate? I hope Ms Nabiullina forgives me for asking this. |
| В.Путин: Практически везде же так: центр города выглядит одним образом, а окраины смотрятся по-другому. [Это] вопрос городских властей прежде всего, региональных властей – думать о развитии наших населённых пунктов таким образом, чтобы людям было комфортно жить в любой части этого города. Что касается небольших городов, то у нас есть целая программа по развитию населённых пунктов. У нас, по-моему, да и по стране в целом, свыше 800 городов – по-моему, 804 – с населением менее 50 тысяч человек, где-то в районе 50 тысяч человек. Это большая программа. Что касается развития малых и средних городов России – много направлений существует, достаточно эффективно работающих по малым городам. Конечно, нужно расширять все эти работы. А что касается дальневосточных и арктических, у нас отдельная программа есть, которая на первом этапе касается 22 городов. Выделены соответствующие ресурсы, планы развития свёрстаны, работа началась. Я о некоторых результатах вскользь упомянул, но считаю, что это одно из ключевых направлений. Мы сейчас только с коллегами обсуждали, которые были, так сказать, в начале пути, инициировали этот процесс, он оказался очень востребованным и эффективным. Если мы говорим о необходимости придать новый импульс развитию экономики, я тоже об этом уже сказал, нам нужно привлекать в регион хорошо подготовленных специалистов, которые, конечно, нуждаются и в хороших социальных условиях: детские сады должны быть, школы хорошие, образование хорошее, медицина. Всё это в комплексе должно развиваться и в небольших городах. Повторяю, есть сейчас программа на 22 города, обеспечена финансированием. Безусловно, будем расширять эту работу. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: Practically everywhere it is like this: the center of a city looks one way, and the outskirts look another. [This] is a question above all for the city authorities, for the regional authorities — to think about the development of our population centers in such a way that it would be comfortable for people to live in any part of that city. As for small cities, we have a whole program for the development of population centers. We have, I think, and across the country as a whole, over 800 cities — I think 804 — with a population of less than 50 thousand people, somewhere around 50 thousand people. This is a large program. As for the development of the small and medium-sized cities of Russia, many directions exist that work fairly effectively for small cities. Of course all this work needs to be expanded. And as for the Far Eastern and Arctic ones, we have a separate program, which at the first stage concerns 22 cities. The corresponding resources have been allocated, development plans have been drawn up, the work has begun. I mentioned some results in passing, but I consider this one of the key directions. We were just discussing it with colleagues who were, so to speak, at the beginning of the path and initiated this process; it has turned out to be very much in demand and effective. If we speak of the necessity of giving a new impulse to the development of the economy, I have already said this too, we need to attract to the region well-prepared specialists, who of course also need good social conditions: there must be kindergartens, good schools, a good education, medicine. All of this in combination must develop in the small cities too. I repeat, there is now a program for 22 cities, provided with financing. We will without doubt expand this work. |
| М.Рыбакова: Всё равно мы сейчас с Вами говорим о каких-то историях про расходы. Я просто плавно подхожу к дефициту бюджета. В 2025 году планировалось, что он будет где-то 1,2 триллиона рублей, летом вырос – это официальные цифры – до 3,8 триллиона. Ещё только сентябрь. Очевидно, что до конца года может что-то измениться. Я даже слышала цифру – до восьми триллионов рублей. Опять же говорю, я не экономист, не понимаю вообще, насколько это возможно и реально. Как Вам кажется и как Вы видите, за счёт чего это выравнивание может произойти? Какие механизмы в первую очередь уже запланировано задействовать? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Still, what we are talking about now are various spending matters. I am simply gradually coming to the budget deficit. In 2025, it was planned to be somewhere around 1.2 trillion rubles; in the summer it rose—these are official figures—to 3.8 trillion. It is only September. Obviously, something may change before the end of the year. I have even heard a figure of up to eight trillion rubles. Again, as I say, I am not an economist and do not understand at all how possible or realistic this is. What do you think, and how do you see this balancing being achieved? Which mechanisms are already planned to be used first? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: I hope AI will not replace me or other people who do my kind of work. |
| 11 Budget Deficit and Fiscal Policy | |
| В.Путин: Мне не кажется, я могу сказать так, как я думаю, а думаю я так. Да, расходы растут, это связано с планами инфраструктурного развития, в том числе и на Дальнем Востоке, потому что они требуют больших денежных ресурсов. Тот же самый Восточный полигон, развитие БАМа, Транссиба и так далее, развитие портовой инфраструктуры, аэропортов и так далее. Наши расходы, связанные с образованием, со здравоохранением по стране в целом и расходы в сфере обороны и безопасности, в том числе и расходы, связанные с проведением специальной военной операции, – это всё расходы. Нам, первое, нужно работать над доходной частью, и здесь есть о чём поговорить, имея в виду, конечно, не увеличение налогового бремени, а просто повышение эффективности производства. Нужно повышать производительность труда, внедрять новейшие технологии, лучше организовывать производство. Здесь, уверяю вас, у нас есть над чем работать, и резервов не счесть числа, то есть здесь большие возможности. Но есть и другие вещи, которые нас могут вполне успокоить, и, уверяю вас, ничего здесь страшного нет. Некоторые наши коллеги в Правительстве считают, что можно и этот дефицит увеличить, ничего страшного в этом нет. Почему? Потому что уровень нашей долговой нагрузки – и внешних долгов, и внутренних долгов – является не просто приемлемым, он является низким, а это гарантирует стабильность работы всей кредитно-финансовой системы – и бюджетной системы в том числе. Бюджет строится на сбалансированной основе. Это непростая работа, это сложная работа, она такая, нервная, если можно сказать, потому что добиваться баланса между различными отраслями экономики – непростая задача. Правительство с этим справляется. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: It does not seem so to me; I can say it as I think, and this is how I think. Yes, expenditures are growing; this is connected with plans for infrastructure development, including in the Far East, because they require large monetary resources. That same Eastern operating domain, the development of the BAM, the Trans-Siberian, and so on, the development of port infrastructure, airports, and so on. Our expenditures connected with education, with health care across the country as a whole, and expenditures in the sphere of defense and security, including expenditures connected with the conduct of the special military operation — these are all expenditures. First, we need to work on the revenue side, and there is something to talk about here, having in mind, of course, not an increase in the tax burden, but simply a rise in the efficiency of production. One must raise labor productivity, introduce the newest technologies, organize production better. Here, I assure you, we have something to work on, and the reserves are beyond counting; that is, there are great possibilities here. But there are also other things that can quite reassure us, and, I assure you, there is nothing terrible here. Some of our colleagues in the Government consider that this deficit can be increased too, and there is nothing terrible in that. Why? Because the level of our debt burden — both external debts and internal debts — is not simply acceptable; it is low, and this guarantees the stability of the work of the whole credit and financial system, and of the budget system as well. The budget is built on a balanced basis. This is not simple work; it is complicated work; it is, one might say, nervous, because achieving a balance among the various branches of the economy is not a simple task. The Government is coping with this. |
| М.Рыбакова: Владимир Владимирович, я тут читала, тоже, кстати, на сессиях форума обсуждалось, что Минфин и, по-моему, Сбербанк – (обращаясь к Г.Грефу) да, Герман Оскарович? – в рамках бюджета вы хотите сейчас внедрять искусственный интеллект, и каким-то образом искусственный интеллект будет помогать формировать бюджет. Если я правильно поняла. Владимир Владимирович, Вы как к таким внедрениям искусственного интеллекта относитесь? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Vladimir Vladimirovich, I read—and this was also discussed at the forum sessions, incidentally—that the Finance Ministry and, I think, Sberbank—(addressing G. Gref) is that right, German Oskarovich?—you now want to introduce artificial intelligence within the budgeting process, and in some way artificial intelligence will help draw up the budget. If I understood correctly. Vladimir Vladimirovich, how do you feel about such applications of artificial intelligence? |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: That is it, I'm done for. But the human side, Mr President, will go away if AI were to ask you questions. |
| 9 Technology and Innovation (IT & AI) | |
| В.Путин: Положительно. Но искусственный интеллект может быть только помощником, во всяком случае, на данный момент, на данном уровне развития технологий в области искусственного интеллекта. На сегодняшний день эти инструменты могут быть только помощником при принятии решения и на уровне Центрального банка, и на уровне Правительства Российской Федерации. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: Positively. But artificial intelligence can only be an assistant, at any rate at the present moment, at the present level of development of technologies in the field of artificial intelligence. Today these instruments can only be an assistant in taking a decision, both at the level of the Central Bank and at the level of the Government of the Russian Federation. |
| М.Рыбакова: Тогда следующий пас хочу отдать господину Ли. Китай добился достаточно больших успехов в области искусственного интеллекта. Сейчас он один из лидеров. По сути, наверное, две такие самые «попсовые», популярные нейросетки – это американская и, соответственно, китайская. Я знаю, что Китай очень активно давно развивает именно платформенную экономику. Это совершенно новый, инновационный вид экономической деятельности. У нас сейчас тоже активно внедряются эти процессы. У меня вот какой вопрос: как вообще Вы это лидерство оцениваете? И что Китай планирует делать для того, чтобы это сотрудничество искусственного интеллекта и государства продолжать дальше? Как это будет выглядеть, то есть какой план? Ли Хунчжун (как переведено): Спасибо Вам за вопрос, уважаемая ведущая. Вы затронули очень важную тему. Искусственный интеллект – это способ достижения прогресса всем человечеством. Искусственный интеллект – это новая производственная сила, которая двигает нашу эволюцию, и его развивать очень важно. Все страны мира, включая и Китай, и Россию, США и другие страны, очень большое внимание уделяют развитию искусственного интеллекта и продвижению его технологий. Как говорил Председатель Си Цзиньпин в 2023 году, в мире будет продвинуто всего четыре главных принципа развития искусственного интеллекта: это его всеобщая популяризация, его дальнейшее продвижение вперёд, а также наше совместное использование ресурсов человека и ресурсов машины, продвижение этих технологий в нашей жизни. Вот такие принципы были выдвинуты. В целом примерно в трёх областях мы сейчас будем реализовывать эти направления. Это научно-технические инновации, научно-техническое развитие. Инновация – это центральный элемент развития концепции искусственного интеллекта. Повышение расчётных мощностей, вычислительных мощностей, создание нейросетей, моделей. Это связано с развитием высоких технологий, с реализацией нашего высокотехнологичного развития в целом. Это связано, конечно, и с подготовкой специалистов, с кадровой работой. Это, конечно, помогает нам готовить кадры. Мы создаём новые платформы. США, конечно, лидируют в этом направлении, но тем не менее Китай постоянно прилагает очень большие усилия, чтобы достичь преимущества в этой сфере. Например, искусственный интеллект. Уровень прогнозирования и степень монополизации Китая в этой сфере достигает уже 60 процентов. Мы растём в вопросе монополизации технологий искусственного интеллекта примерно на 20 процентов в год. Это, конечно же, наше преимущество. Мы патентируем эти технологии. Это одно из ключевых направлений развития. Вторая составляющая. Мы реализуем свои подходы, рассматривая искусственный интеллект как путь развития человечества, как путь достижения нашего благосостояния. Как говорил Председатель Си Цзиньпин, он выдвигал в своих речах важнейшую концепцию сообщества единой судьбы человечества. Мы исповедуем эти идеи. И в этой концепции одним из ключевых компонентов является богатое, мощное государство, продвижение всеобщего благосостояния всем слоям населения. Мы неуклонно идём по этой дороге продвижения высоких технологий. Допустим, китайская нейросеть DeepSeek. Эта модель уже очень известная. Она позволяет достичь больших результатов при её использовании. Это передовая технология. Мы смогли качественно понизить себестоимость и тем самым преодолеть порог достижения больш и х выгод при минимальных затратах. Это, конечно же, один из путей развития искусственного интеллекта. Повышение вычислительных мощностей искусственного интеллекта, конечно, нам предлагает новые возможности. Мы открыли совершенно новые направления его применения, допустим, такие технологии, как беспилотное управление, управление технологическими процессами. Его открытый код позволяет нам качественно использовать эти технологии. Мы можем таким образом достигать новых высот в нашей работе, одновременно развивая эти технологии искусственного интеллекта, одновременно их внедряя. Извлекая выгоду из использования искусственного интеллекта, мы обращаем большое внимание на ту среду, ту обстановку, которая необходима для использования технологий. Это всё нацелено на повышение производства, мощностей. Уже сейчас сфера применения искусственного интеллекта в производстве также демонстрирует очень высокий рост. Её капитализация достигла 700 миллиардов юаней, рост примерно 20 процентов в год. И очень много направлений, которые могут помочь нам повышать благосостояние наших людей, развивать эти технологии повсеместно, улучшать жизнь людей по всей нашей территории, распространять эти технологии в интересах производств, предприятий. Это, конечно, нам даёт новые преимущества. Многоаспектное, комплексное использование таких технологий – это ключевое направление развития нашей страны. Мы открыли врата использования технологий искусственного интеллекта в жизни людей, и мы также хотели бы, чтобы в России эти технологии развивались, как Вы, Владимир Владимирович, и наш Председатель, товарищ Си Цзиньпин, уже совместно говорили. Мы должны активно использовать и площадку Дальнего Востока России, и наши территории для развития искусственного интеллекта в наших странах. Большое спасибо за внимание. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Then I would like to pass the next ball to Mr Li. China has achieved considerable success in artificial intelligence. It is now one of the leaders. Essentially, probably the two most "mainstream", popular neural networks are the American one and, accordingly, the Chinese one. I know that China has long been developing the platform economy very actively. This is a completely new, innovative type of economic activity. These processes are now being actively introduced here too. My question is this: how do you assess this leadership overall? And what does China plan to do to continue this cooperation between artificial intelligence and the state? What will this look like, that is, what is the plan? Li Hongzhong (as translated): Thank you for your question, Madam Moderator. You have touched on a very important subject. Artificial intelligence is a way for all humanity to achieve progress. Artificial intelligence is a new productive force driving our evolution, and developing it is very important. All countries of the world, including China, Russia, the United States and other countries, pay very close attention to developing artificial intelligence and advancing its technologies. As President Xi Jinping said in 2023, just four main principles for the development of artificial intelligence will be advanced in the world: its universal popularization, its further advancement, as well as our joint use of human resources and machine resources, and the promotion of these technologies in our lives. These were the principles put forward. In general, we will now implement these approaches in approximately three areas. These are scientific and technological innovation, scientific and technological development. Innovation is the central element in developing the concept of artificial intelligence. Increasing calculation capacity, computing capacity, creating neural networks and models. This is linked to the development of high technologies and the implementation of our high-tech development overall. Of course, it is also linked to training specialists and personnel work. Of course, it helps us train personnel. We are creating new platforms. The United States, of course, leads in this area, but nevertheless China is constantly making very great efforts to gain an advantage in this sphere. For example, artificial intelligence. China's level of forecasting and degree of monopolization in this sphere already reach 60 percent. We are growing in the monopolization of artificial intelligence technologies by approximately 20 percent a year. This is, of course, our advantage. We patent these technologies. This is one of the key areas of development. The second component. We are implementing our approaches by viewing artificial intelligence as a path for humanity's development, as a path to achieving our prosperity. As President Xi Jinping said, he put forward in his speeches the extremely important concept of a community with a shared future for humanity. We embrace these ideas. And one of the key components of this concept is a wealthy, powerful state, the advancement of universal prosperity to all sections of the population. We are steadily following this path of advancing high technologies. Take, for example, the Chinese neural network DeepSeek. This model is already very well known. It makes it possible to achieve great results through its use. This is advanced technology. We were able to reduce production costs substantially and thereby overcome the threshold for achieving greater benefits at minimal cost. This is, of course, one of the paths for artificial intelligence development. Increasing artificial intelligence's computing capacity of course offers us new opportunities. We have opened up entirely new areas for its application, for example technologies such as unmanned control and the control of technological processes. Its open source code enables us to use these technologies effectively. In this way we can reach new heights in our work, simultaneously developing these artificial intelligence technologies and introducing them. While benefiting from the use of artificial intelligence, we pay close attention to the environment, the conditions necessary for using the technologies. All this is aimed at increasing production and capacity. Even now, the use of artificial intelligence in production is also demonstrating very high growth. Its capitalization has reached 700 billion yuan, with growth of approximately 20 percent a year. And there are a great many areas that can help us improve our people's prosperity, develop these technologies everywhere, improve people's lives throughout our territory, and spread these technologies for the benefit of production facilities and enterprises. This, of course, gives us new advantages. The multifaceted, comprehensive use of such technologies is a key direction in our country's development. We have opened the gates to using artificial intelligence technologies in people's lives, and we would also like these technologies to develop in Russia, as you, Vladimir Vladimirovich, and our President, Comrade Xi Jinping, have already said jointly. We must actively use both the platform of Russia's Far East and our territories to develop artificial intelligence in our countries. Thank you very much for your attention. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. Ladies and gentlemen, does anyone have anything to add to the questions that have been asked? We are gradually approaching the finish line. I have one last question left, which is rather philosophical. Mr President, it is about the Far East, but, not entirely about the economy. Here it goes. For some reason, I thought that the Far East really does live in the future, because it is 5: 00 pm here, and it is morning in Moscow. You and I are in the middle of the day, or rather, it is almost an evening. Overall, the world looks rather strange today. Everyone is talking about it a lot, including turbulence and crises that flare up non-stop, and this is not only about the Ukraine crisis, but Israel and Palestine as well. Flashpoints like that abound. What do you think of Russia’s future in this world? This is the first question. And the second is do you think the world of the coming decades will be more Western or Eastern? |
| М.Рыбакова: Владимир Владимирович, я не буду спрашивать, можно ли управлять страной с помощью искусственного интеллекта. У меня такой вопрос: а как Вы думаете, можно, например, искусственному интеллекту доверить установление ключевой ставки? Да простит меня Эльвира Сахипзадовна [Набиуллина]. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Vladimir Vladimirovich, I will not ask whether a country can be governed using artificial intelligence. My question is this: do you think artificial intelligence could, for example, be entrusted with setting the key interest rate? May Elvira Sakhipzadovna [Nabiullina] forgive me. |
| В.Путин: Я уже сказал, я полагаю – не полагаю, уверен, что возможности искусственного интеллекта можно использовать при любых решениях и нужно использовать при принятии любых решений во всех сферах, в том числе и в сфере ответственности Центрального банка. Но принимать решения подобного рода должен конкретный человек, он и должен отвечать за принимаемые решения. А с искусственного интеллекта ничего не спросишь, это просто инструмент. Люди должны работать. Кстати, наш китайский участник, наш друг из Китая – у него высокий политический ранг, он член Политбюро ЦК КПК. Но мы же сейчас слышали, он давал экспертные оценки, по сути, это экспертные оценки в достаточно серьёзной области – искусственного интеллекта. Люди и должны принимать решения. И такие люди должны быть и в Китае, и в России, в том числе [должны] пользоваться искусственным интеллектом и развивать эти инструменты. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: I have already said that I suppose — I do not suppose, I am sure — that the capabilities of artificial intelligence can be used in any decisions and must be used in taking any decisions in every sphere, including the sphere of the Central Bank's responsibility. But a decision of this kind must be taken by a specific person, and he must answer for the decisions taken. Nothing can be asked of artificial intelligence; it is simply a tool. People must do the work. By the way, our Chinese participant, our friend from China, has a high political rank; he is a member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China. But we have just heard him; he was giving expert assessments, and in essence these are expert assessments in a fairly serious field, artificial intelligence. It is people who must take the decisions. And such people must exist both in China and in Russia, including that they [must] use artificial intelligence and develop these tools. |
| М.Рыбакова: Надеюсь, меня не «подсидит» пока искусственный интеллект, я имею в виду тех, кто занимается нашей работой. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: I hope artificial intelligence will not “take my job” just yet—I mean those who do our work. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. All that remains for me to do is to thank you for trusting me with asking you questions today. Also, in closing, I am very grateful to the Far East for such a warm welcome. As Mr President has rightly pointed out, tomorrow, and some of us today, will be heading west. Therefore, I would like to sum it up and say that, since we mentioned the double-headed eagle at the very beginning, perhaps our uniqueness and strength lie in the fact that we are not choosing but looking in both directions at once. I think this seamlessly fits with the motto of the anniversary forum on cooperation in the name of peace and prosperity. Thank you very much. |
| 10 Regional Connectivity (Laos, Mongolia, China) | |
| В.Путин: Почему же? Есть же нейросети, уже есть, по-моему, и телеведущие. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: Why not? There are neural networks; there are already, I think, television presenters as well. |
| М.Рыбакова: Всё, на мне поставлен крест. Но человеческое, Владимир Владимирович, ведь уйдёт, если искусственный интеллект будет задавать Вам вопросы. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: That is it, I have been written off. But the human element, Vladimir Vladimirovich, will disappear if artificial intelligence asks you questions. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Maria Rybakova: Thank you. This is the best assessment. Thank you very much, Mr President. Have a safe flight everyone, at least those who are leaving today. Geography Primorye Territory Laos Mongolia People's Republic of China Topics Economy and finance Foreign policy Regions |
| В.Путин: Или будет совершенствоваться с помощью искусственного интеллекта. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: Or it will improve with the help of artificial intelligence. |
| М.Рыбакова: Спасибо. Уважаемые гости, есть ли у кого-то что добавить к вопросам, которые сейчас были озвучены? Мы плавно с вами приближаемся к финишу. У меня остался последний вопрос, он, скорее, будет философский, Владимир Владимирович, касающийся Дальнего Востока, но, скажем так, не совсем экономический. Вот какой вопрос. Я почему-то подумала, что Дальний Восток действительно живёт в будущем, потому что сейчас 17: 00, в Москве ещё утро, а мы с Вами уже в середине дня, точнее, уже близится его вечер. Вообще, сегодня мир довольно странно выглядит. Все об этом много говорят: и о турбулентности, и о кризисах, которые безостановочно вспыхивают, и это речь не только об украинском кризисе. То, что происходит в Израиле с Палестиной. Таких точек сейчас очень много. Как Вам кажется, какое у России будущее в этом мире? Это первый вопрос. И второй: как Вам кажется, мир ближайших десятилетий всё-таки будет больше западный или восточный? |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. Distinguished guests, does anyone have anything to add to the questions that have just been raised? We are gradually approaching the finish. I have one last question, which will be more philosophical, Vladimir Vladimirovich, concerning the Far East, but, let us say, not quite economic. Here is the question. For some reason I thought that the Far East really does live in the future, because it is now 17:00, it is still morning in Moscow, and you and I are already in the middle of the day—or rather, evening is already approaching. In general, the world looks rather strange today. Everyone talks a lot about this: about turbulence and about crises that keep flaring up incessantly, and this is not just about the Ukrainian crisis. What is happening in Israel with Palestine. There are a great many such flashpoints now. What kind of future do you think Russia has in this world? That is the first question. And second: do you think the world of the coming decades will be more Western or Eastern after all? |
| В.Путин: Он будет многополярным. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: It will be multipolar. |
| М.Рыбакова: Благодарю Вас. Мне остаётся только поблагодарить за оказанное доверие сегодня задавать вопросы. И, наверное, маленькая финальная история будет о том, что я очень благодарна Дальнему Востоку за такой тёплый приём. Завтра, как уже правильно сказал Владимир Владимирович, многие из нас, а кто-то уже и сегодня, полетят всё-таки на запад. Поэтому мне всё-таки хочется подытожить и сказать, что, как мы обсуждали с Вами двуглавого орла в самом начале, – наверное, наша уникальность и сила в том, что мы не выбираем, а смотрим и держим взгляд сразу в обе стороны. Мне кажется, это как нельзя лучше ассоциируется, собственно, с девизом юбилейного форума о сотрудничестве во имя мира и процветания. Спасибо Вам большое. |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. All that remains for me is to thank you for the trust placed in me to ask questions today. And perhaps my little closing story will be that I am very grateful to the Far East for such a warm welcome. Tomorrow, as Vladimir Vladimirovich has already rightly said, many of us—and some as early as today—will, after all, fly west. So I would still like to sum up and say that, as we discussed the double-headed eagle at the very beginning, perhaps our uniqueness and strength lie in the fact that we do not choose, but look and keep our gaze in both directions at once. I think this could not be more closely associated with the anniversary forum’s motto about cooperation for peace and prosperity. Thank you very much. |
| В.Путин: Я со своей стороны хочу поблагодарить всех участников: наших иностранных гостей, моих коллег, которые здесь вместе со мной сегодня работают, весь зал за совместную работу, потому что это тоже работа, и нашу очаровательную ведущую за то, что она организовала такую интересную дискуссию. Спасибо большое. |
Full house translation — pending review В.Путин: For my part, I want to thank all the participants: our foreign guests, my colleagues who are working here alongside me today, the entire audience for our work together—because this too is work—and our charming moderator for organizing such an interesting discussion. Thank you very much. |
| М.Рыбакова: Благодарю. Это лучшая оценка. Спасибо большое, Владимир Владимирович. Лёгкого всем полёта, по крайней мере [тем], кто сегодня улетает! География Приморский край Китай Лаос Монголия Темы Внешняя политика Регионы Экономика и финансы |
Full house translation — pending review М.Рыбакова: Thank you. That is the highest praise. Thank you very much, Vladimir Vladimirovich. Have a smooth flight, everyone—at least [those] flying out today! Geography Primorye Territory China Laos Mongolia Topics Foreign Policy Regions Economy and Finance |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: You just said that our eagle is looking to the East and to West. But there is also South. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: I have discussed this issue with my colleagues many times. What I was saying is that our interaction, our expanded interaction and joint work with our friends from the Asia-Pacific region and the Global South has nothing to do with the current political developments. Look, President Xi Jinping and I took up this major effort 20 years ago. It has nothing to do with the current circumstances, but is related to our respective national interests. Our economies are complementary, we are neighbours, and we share many common interests, common approaches, and common values. To be sure, traditional values. We, in Russia, knew the inner workings of the global economy. What are they? The whole world knows well that it is growing at a fast pace featuring new areas of focus and growth points. Naturally, we are guided by this, all the more so as we enjoy excellent neighbourly relations with many countries, including the People’s Republic of China, India, and Indonesia. Please note the pace of growth in these countries: Indonesia has almost 300 million people. That is quite a market. There are small, but rapidly growing countries, such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam, with which we have had special relations for decades. Why would we not put all of that to good use? It is a natural thing to do. This is not a pivot anywhere. It is simply an answer to objective processes occurring around the world and in the global economy. We have never refused to cooperate with those who wish to work with us, including in other countries across Asia. At the moment, I simply do not want to put anyone in a difficult or awkward position. Companies from certain countries that face some problems due to the current political circumstances have not left our market; they are still there, they continue to operate and even seek to expand cooperation. For political reasons, many European companies have exited – yes, at a loss to themselves. We are aware of this and remain in contact; many are eager to return as soon as political restrictions are lifted. We do not turn our backs on anyone. Contrary to suggestions that we are “looking elsewhere,” we are not… Our foreign and economic policies remain stable and predictable. In my view, this represents a clear competitive advantage, as stability is crucial for business. We have not turned away anyone or forced anyone out. Those who wish to return are always welcome, but based on the conditions that are developing at the moment. Regarding the dragon and the elephant dancing together – this analogy was originally made by President Xi Jinping, not me – later the bear was added. The bear, of course, symbolises Russia. But we are staying in the Far East, and here we also have the world’s largest tiger – the Ussuri tiger, which is a Russian tiger. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: This approach is harmful, both to those who adopt it and to the global economy and international trade. It fosters separatism, both regional and national. Nothing positive comes from pursuing such a policy, as today’s world is highly interconnected and driven by possibilities and technological development. Isolating oneself within a purely national framework is difficult and counterproductive, as it inevitably undermines competitiveness. We proceed from the fact that Russia is open to cooperation with all countries of the world, and above all with those who are willing to work with us, with our friends. At the same time, we are not shutting ourselves off from anyone. I believe the vast majority of those who are present here, if not everyone, will agree with me: such openness is beneficial to everyone who adheres to this point of view and this policy. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: Money is always important, but not the main thing. The main thing is to properly organise work, to identify priorities, and to establish interaction between various entities that have been assigned a common task. This common task is for the regional authorities to, on the one hand, come to terms with investors and, on the other hand, investors must guarantee – some of our colleagues present here, for sure, are planning to do something – and these investors must guarantee the consumption of this energy, meaning that those who will produce it must be sure that as they invest money in creating energy capacities and grid facilities, their efforts will not be in vain, and things will not hang up after they spend their money. The first thing that needs to be done is to organise joint work, and then to look for the latest technologies and investors who are ready to use these technologies in conjunction with the oversight organisations in charge of monitoring the fragile ecosystem of the Arctic and the Far East. This is the common task. In that case, money will not be a problem, because the invested funds will pay back quickly. Ultimately, this will benefit the budget as well, since it will receive more tax revenue from the effective and competently organised work at new enterprises. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: You mentioned coal miners, who, like you said, are going through difficult times. Times are difficult in the sense that our coal mining industry is large, and the situation on international markets has changed, but we must largely focus on the domestic needs and the domestic market. This is my first point. Second, to reiterate, we possess large amounts of coal in the Far East that will last 900 years. In order for us to use them effectively, we need the latest technologies. This is what we need to focus on in the first place. If the domestic market consumes the volumes we need, we will be able to use it effectively, and we will simply have no difficulties with the situation on international markets, since it will be irrelevant. We will then be able to regulate the work of all industries, including coal mining, in the ordinary course of business. This is what we should strive for, and this is one of our critical goals. The situation on international markets matters, no doubt about it, and we must take it into account. But in order to be more flexible and more sustainable, we must rely primarily on the domestic market. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: We are discussing cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. You keep bringing me back to cooperation, say, with our friends and allies in the People’s Republic of China. We have not yet talked about India: there are many plans there, too. But the Asia-Pacific region also includes, say, the United States. And there are many interested parties there who want to resume or begin new work with us. We are talking about the Asia-Pacific region. We have received excellent proposals for working with US companies in Alaska: they have resources there, and we have technologies for extracting and liquefying gas that are much more effective than those that some of our American partners have. They know this, and at the level of economic players, companies are ready for cooperation. It does not depend on us. We are also ready, but if any political decisions are made there, we will move in this direction, and we can work together in the Arctic, too. By the way, we have already discussed possible work in a trilateral format on some of our Arctic fields with our Chinese friends. In fact, all these options are being discussed, they are on the table. We only need a political decision. This is possible, and cooperation in both gas and oil would be mutually beneficial. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: This is not a question for me. We are not putting spokes or anything in any wheels. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: Initially, you asked about our eagle, which is one of our symbols. It looks in one direction and in the opposite. Look at the eagle now. Did we turn |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: First of all, I would like to emphasise that the decision by China’s political leadership – clearly made at the highest level – allowing visa-free entry for Russian citizens into the People’s Republic of China came as a complete surprise to us. We had no prior knowledge of it, and it was especially welcome. Naturally, this decision is a strong sign of friendship, which we deeply appreciate. It will undoubtedly lead to a significant increase in mutual travel, create more favourable conditions for businesses, and further strengthen the ties between our two countries. This is simply self-evident. To travel to any country, including China, an ordinary person usually needs to visit several authorities, submit documents, and go through various formalities. Now, with this visa-free arrangement, one can simply board a plane and fly – no bureaucracy. Right? This will undoubtedly bring our two countries closer together. Naturally, we will respond in kind to this gesture of friendship and adopt the same measures. Regarding tourist travel, it is true that the system of payments needs further improvement. We are working on this intensively. Our financial institutions of the highest level are attending to this matter, along with commercial banks. I do not want to make more comments at the moment, so as not to create any difficulties for future decisions. This is also connected with the need to respect the interests of financial institutions operating under sanctions pressure. Nevertheless, possible solutions do exist. We are perfectly aware that steps must be taken for tourists to have as few difficulties as possible. They can certainly use our Mir payment card, and similar Chinese instruments. These payment instruments can be aligned, third countries’ bank cards can also be used. I assure you that the central banks of both countries are working on this and will find a solution. The heads of the financial institutions discussed all these issues in my presence and in the presence of President Xi Jinping right now, during our delegation’s visit to the Chinese People’s Republic. They are maintaining a dialogue and keep discussing this matter. I am confident that decisions are forthcoming. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: We have an open dialogue with President Trump. We have agreed to call each other, if need be, and talk. He knows that I am open to such talks, as well as he is – I know it. However, so far, based on the results of these consultations in Europe, we have not had any discussions. Actually, it was difficult for me to do this, as I have just arrived from China and am here now. We have no communication problems here. This is the first point. Second, regarding possible military contingents in Ukraine. This is one on the basic reasons for dragging Ukraine into NATO. So, if any troops appear there, especially now, during combat operations, we will deem them legitimate targets for destruction. And if any decisions leading to peace, a lasting peace, are achieved, then I will not see the sense of their deployment in Ukraine, that’s it. If agreements are achieved, then no one should doubt that Russia will execute them in full. We will observe the security guarantees, which, of course, would be drafted both for Russia and Ukraine. And I will say it again: Russia will observe these agreements. Anyway, nobody has ever discussed it with us seriously, that’s that. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: I would like you to stick closer to the topics of the Asia-Pacific economic cooperation. But I realise that without solving such acute problems, cooperation as a whole is burdened, so these are legitimate questions. What can I say? First, just recently the leadership of the Kiev regime spoke unflatteringly of us, to put it mildly, and excluded any possibility of direct contacts. Now we see that they are asking for such contacts, at least they are suggesting having them. I have repeatedly said that I am ready for such contacts. At the news conference in Beijing that you mentioned I said that I do not see much sense in them. Why? Because it will be impossible to come to terms with the Ukrainian side on the key issues. Even if they have political will – which I doubt – there are legal and technical difficulties which are related to the fact that any agreements on territories must be confirmed, under the Ukrainian constitution, in a referendum. To hold a referendum, a martial law must be lifted, as referenda are not held under martial law. If martial law is lifted, presidential elections must be held right away. After the referendum, if it is held, regardless of its results, it must be endorsed by a Constitutional Court’s ruling. But the Constitutional Court is not functioning because, as I see it, after it received enquiries on the legitimacy of the incumbent authorities, the court dodged rulings while the head of the regime ordered the security guards not to let the Constitutional Court Chairman to his office. This is the kind of democracy they have there. Meanwhile the Supreme Court Chairman is in jail on corruption charges. It is common knowledge that corruption abounds in Ukraine. But is not clear why it is exactly the Supreme Court Chairman who should be put behind bars. Although it is clear that they have reached the point of destroying their judicial system as such. This is yet another vivid example of how “democratic” the current Ukrainian authorities are. So this is an endless process leading to nowhere. Nevertheless, we said that we are ready for a top-level meeting. Look, the Ukrainian side wants this meeting and suggests it should be held. I said, ‘I am ready, please come, we will certainly provide proper conditions for work and security, with a 100 percent guarantee.’ But if we are told, ‘We want to meet with you, but you should go to some place for this meeting,’ I think these are just excessive demands towards us. Let me reiterate – if someone really wants to meet with us, we are ready. The best place for it is the capital of the Russian Federation, the hero city of Moscow. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: Go ahead. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: I have no way of knowing how you understood it. I will tell you how things are, and things are as follows. Indeed, Ukraine set itself a goal – and still has it – to join the EU. To reiterate, this is Ukraine’s legitimate choice. It decides how to build its international relations, how to ensure its interests in the economic sphere, and whom to conclude alliances with. The problem for us when Yanukovich was president was that Ukraine’s integration into the European system of economic relations entailed certain economic issues, because Ukraine was part of the free trade zone, our customs borders were open, and for us this implied certain consequences. Ukraine had to compare, put on the scales and see what it was losing in contacts with us in direct monetary and cooperative terms, and what it was gaining there. This is what President Yanukovich thought about. He ran the numbers and that made him cry, because opening markets to competitive, highly competitive European products was killing the manufacturing industry in Ukraine and shutting down cooperative and trade relations with Russia. That was the problem. As far as I remember, he did not say no to joining the EU, on the contrary, he wanted to join it. I do not know what he said, but I know for sure that he wanted it and was striving for it, but on terms that were acceptable to Ukraine. It did not concern us in any way other that it affected our interests in cooperation ties. But otherwise, no problem, we have never objected to any integration moves in Ukraine’s policies with Europe. Security issues are a different matter. President Yanukovich and Ukrainian prime minister were against drawing Ukraine into NATO. This issue directly affected us and continues to affect us from the point of view of ensuring Russia’s long-term security interests. What happened next? As a result of the coup, they got Yanukovich out of power. They removed the person who was against Ukraine joining NATO, and used a bloody coup in Kiev to bring to power forces that advocated and continue to advocate for Ukraine’s NATO membership. This does not suit us at all. Even though each country can choose how it prefers to ensure its own security, such issues cannot be addressed without regard for Russia’s security, because there is a general rule included in the European documents: the security of one country cannot be ensured at the expense of the security of another country. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: It is not about prices, although that is certainly one of the key factors. In order to improve and expand the supply of this product to Russian regions, the issue of logistics must first be resolved. We transport it by rail, which is costly, or by air, which is even more costly. That is the problem. Seafood – both fish and crab – ends up mainly in expensive restaurants. Why? Because it has to be flown in. If we could organise transportation and build logistics correctly, the situation would change. However, I should note that fish products from the Far East – not only crab, but seafood in general – account for about 75 percent of the national catch, if I recall correctly. Of this, about 65 percent is also processed here. Today, logistics is the most sensitive issue. We are working on it. We are giving it serious attention, and we will expand our capacity to distribute seafood, including crab, to all regions of the Russian Federation. This is indeed a problem. Moreover, according to Ministry of Health standards, we are not yet meeting recommended levels of seafood and fish consumption. If I am not mistaken, the norm is 28 kg per capita per year, while today we are at around 23–23.5 kg. Clearly, there is work to be done here. We are thinking about it, and I hope this issue will be resolved. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: Unfortunately, although there was a rather decent local airline network set up in the Soviet times, it was lost in the 1990s. It was mostly neglected in the early 2000s, so people had to, and still have to, fly from one city, even if major, to another city via Moscow, like your friend. But we have already established a local airline. Of course, the key issue is the availability of medium-haul aircraft in sufficient quantity. The Government, the Ministry of Industry and Trade and our domestic enterprises have many plans in this area. Unfortunately, I have to agree that this matter is taking longer than we wanted. But there is Baikal and other small aircraft that are to replace Antonov An-2. This is work in progress. I will be honest, sometimes we argue with some of our responsible parties. They will have to expedite these efforts. We have plans and specific models ready. They have been launched, and I have seen them in operation. The next step is serial production and supplies to airlines. We will certainly do all we can to speed up the process. We are aware of this problem and of the fact that it still persists. We will keep on working on solutions. I will not list everything. We have Baikal and many other aircraft models. I have seen them in operation. But serial production is not yet launched. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: No, there is no such trap or threat of falling into one. That risk would exist only if we did nothing. You paid attention to my speech, and one of my central – if not the main – arguments was precisely that: when it comes to investment, we must make the region as a whole more innovative. This is not a problem of our partners that they tend to invest into the extraction of mineral resources. It is our problem. We should create conditions for the development of innovative sectors of the economy, and for people with the right expertise to come to work here. In fact, such a trend is already emerging, as I mentioned. Our task is to build the right environment. I can assure you that our partners will be eager to invest in promising enterprises, provided that their implementation also brings them benefits. That is the only way it works; there is no alternative. I am confident that we can implement all of these plans. By the way, we discussed these issues with our Chinese partners, our friends, in Beijing. Overall, we should organise our work, calibrating it to high technology economic sectors. This is what we are going to do. This is the only future for our economies and our countries, the foundation of our shared success. This certainly applies to the regions of the Far East as well. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: One more thing about mineral resources – I have just looked at Mr Miller and recalled it – is that the concept that we can just drill a hole, and oil and gas will just pour through it is a primitive one. Mr Mikhelson here knows very well what liquefied natural gas is. The technologies he and his team have adopted do not exist anywhere else in the world. This is a high technology sector. And I say this without exaggeration, without hyperbole – it is the truth. The same applies to the gas sector as a whole. Gazprom’s cooperation with our Chinese friends and partners is not limited to supply contracts. It is a genuine strategic partnership, which means that people are working together on technology-intensive industries, including gas. And there is plenty of work to be done to ensure the effectiveness and profitability for both suppliers and buyers. An extensive number of advanced technological solutions are necessary. This work within the framework of strategic partnerships between interested companies has already been established and is underway. The only task now is to extend it to related and promising industries, such as artificial intelligence, and of course, we will do this. We have agreements in the aviation industry with China as well. I am going to fly to another Russian city soon, where I will talk about engine manufacturing. There are plans to work on aviation, which is, by the way, well-represented in the Far East, including both military and civilian aircraft. Sukhoi Superjet 100 is manufactured here in the Far East. There are areas that can be improved, and the same applies to shipbuilding. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: I have spoken about this at length in my remarks and said that young people do move here as they see prospects. There is a demand for young professionals. This trend is apparent but it needs reinforcement from the government. The region needs support in shaping a new image of local economic development, mainly with the help of advanced technologies. I do not know what you have seen on websites, but I know for certain, having heard it from top managers of local companies, that there is a shortage of highly qualified workforce. The Zvezda shipbuilding complex that we have mentioned today is building a large-capacity fleet that we have not had before. We also need aviation professionals here. It goes without saying that we need to develop all modern technologies so that we can go beyond developing the Far Eastern and Arctic mineral resources and can make this region part of Russia’s technology-intensive production in general. It is what we plan to do and it will elevate the region to a new development stage. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: I believe the more people earn the better. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: It does matter. I said that it is an economic category. The higher the wage the higher the spending. The higher the spending the more Russian products are popular in the market because usually, people wish to buy Russian-made goods, and so on. This is another economic factor – and a positive one. Moreover, it makes people’s lives better. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: I am not the only one here. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: No. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: He knows this well. We maintain constant contact. He regularly participates in our meetings, including those I hold with the Government and the Central Bank. Some members of the Government share his opinion, mainly because the Central Bank is holding the rate high to combat inflation. You complained about prices in shops. The goal is not only to bring prices in shops down but also to ensure that economic actors also restrain price growth. We can discuss anything but I do not want to give assessments now. I have my own view, of course, but let me refrain from evaluating the Central Bank’s work. Let me note instead that our Central Bank is highly respected across the international finance community. This is first-hand information. The Central Bank’s policy is deliberate. In 2023, Russia’s GDP grew by 4.3 percent; and in 2024, by 4.4 percent. At the same time, inflation rose, too. We need to address macroeconomic challenges and ensure a soft, smooth landing of the economy to stabilise key macroeconomic indicators and slow down price growth. Yes, I know the debates very well: we discuss this daily. Just yesterday we were talking about this. Some experts believe that the economy has cooled down, but lending has not stopped. Ask Mr Gref himself: has lending stopped? No. The pace has slowed down, yes. I know some industries are going through rough times, and people present here also understand this very well. However, everyone also understands that nothing good will happen if inflation spins out of control. It would become impossible to plan anything, not just years ahead, but even ten days ahead. This is a very delicate issue. Take banks, for example. You can ask the Chairman of VTB. He will tell you: yes, perhaps they have overdone it, maybe the economy has cooled somewhat too much. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: Yes. The Ministry of Economic Development will tell you the same thing. And all of them are right in their own way. But I am confident that we will eventually find a way to maintain the necessary pace of economic growth while keeping inflation to a minimum. I think that’s enough for this discussion format. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: No, we are discussing it with our Lao friends, and we talked about it just yesterday. We are in contact with our partners from third countries, including from Vietnam. Indeed, we are discussing all these logistic options; we are talking about expanding them. I think prospects are good. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: I do not operate in terms such as “I think,” I can tell you what I believe, and I believe as follows. Indeed, spendings are growing, which is due to the infrastructure development plans, including in the Far East, because they require large financial resources. The Eastern Operating Domain, the Baikal-Amur Mainline, the Trans-Siberian Railway, and so on, the development of port infrastructure, airports, and so on. Spending on education and healthcare throughout the country, and spending in the defence and security sphere, including spending related to the special military operation – these are all spendings. First, we need to work on the revenue part, and there are things to discuss, meaning, of course, not an increase in the tax burden, but simply an increase in production efficiency. We need to increase labour productivity, introduce the latest technologies, and better organise production processes. Here, I assure you, we have things to address, and the reserves are countless, meaning the opportunities are vast. However, there are other things that can quite reassure us, and, rest assured, there is nothing scary about it. Some of our colleagues in the Government believe that this deficit can be increased, and it is not a big deal. Why? Because our debt burden levels – external and internal – are not just acceptable but are low. This guarantees the stability of the entire financial credit system, including the budget system. The budget is built on a balanced basis. This is not an easy thing to do. It is actually a complex and even stressful effort, if I can put it that way, because achieving a balance between different sectors of the economy is a challenging task. The Government is coping with it. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: My view on this is positive. But AI can only be an assistant, at least at this particular moment, at this stage of AI technology development. Today, these tools can only be used to assist the decision-making both at the level of the Central Bank and at the level of the Government. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: I have already said, I think, no, take that back, I believe that the capabilities of AI can be used when making any kinds of decisions, and they should be used in making any decisions across all areas, including in matters overseen by the Central Bank. However, decisions of that kind must be made by a specific person that should bear responsibility for them. You cannot hold AI accountable. It is just a tool. Humans should do the actual work. By the way, our Chinese participant, our friend from China has a high political rank, he is a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee. But we just heard him provide expert assessments in a fairly serious area of AI. Humans should make decisions. And such people should be in China and in Russia. They should use AI and develop these tools. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: Why not? There are neural networks, and I think there are AI-based television presenters as well. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: Or it will get better with the help of AI. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: It will be multipolar. |
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Cached English source — passage alignment not verified Vladimir Putin: For my part, I would like to thank all the participants, including our foreign guests, my colleagues who are working here with me today, and the audience for their joint efforts, because this is also part of the work, as well as our charming moderator for making such an interesting discussion possible. Thank you very much. |