Agenda: Establishing integrated cultural centres in Russian towns and 12 other issues
Dmitry Medvedev’s opening address
Government meeting
Before we begin, I would like to introduce our newly appointed deputy prime minister, presidential envoy to the Far Eastern District Mr Yury Trutnev. He just took over his new position and I would ask you to provide him support and assistance. You are well aware of what his job will entail so I do not have to discuss this now. A lot needs to be done. We will also consider a range of issues concerning the Far East.
The first and most important issue on today’s agenda concerns national culture. We will discuss plans to establish integrated cultural centres in Russian towns. Next year will be the Year of Culture. Therefore, it is obvious that any decisions we make will directly influence Russia’s cultural development as well as the nation’s development in general.
Dmitry Medvedev: "The conservation of Russia’s heritage and support for new cultural projects are important priorities for the Government and other official agencies."
The conservation of Russia’s heritage and support for new cultural projects are important priorities for the Government and other official agencies. It is also important that every Russian has access to all kinds of books, both regular books from libraries and digital ones, to the best theatre premieres and to collections of rare artifacts on display at national museums – that is, to feel themselves an integral part of our civilization, if you will.
The planned cultural centres will combine cultural and educational initiatives. Local residents will be able to visit them together with their families, to relax and learn as well. The centres will offer exhibitions, theatre and cinema productions, and art workshops. We certainly expect interest not only from older generations but also from young people, who will have more opportunities to take part in creative projects and utilise their personal potential. The centres will provide an environment that will foster talent, which is crucial for the development of the national culture. Finally, this initiative should change life in smaller towns, adding activity and diversity. I hope this will happen quite soon.
Government meeting
Many towns across Russia have already shown interest in the initiative. Last year, we held a competition for the pilot project to build the centres. The Ryazan and Omsk Region governors are here today, we’ll hear what they think about this.
Today we will also consider the proposed amendments to a range of federal laws and will take decisions on two important government commissions, as I said yesterday at a meeting with deputy prime ministers. One of the commissions will be responsible for the flood relief efforts in the Far East, in compliance with the presidential order, the other – to be established on my instruction – will work to ensure the reliable operation of the Siberia and Far Eastern water control systems in the future, so that such emergencies can be predicted, if not prevented.
Our next issue for today’s discussion is providing government financial assistance to the regions affected by the flood.
Next, I would like to draw your attention to a draft law simplifying visa procedures. The bill takes into account Russian and international experience on the issue. If the law is adopted, foreign transit passengers arriving in Russia’s international airports (citizens of countries on a Government-approved list) will be able to stay in Russia for 72 hours without a visa, in accordance with a government-drafted procedure. I believe this should make Russia more attractive as a tourist destination and will also make our country more open for such contact. The airports will be also selected by the Government in accordance with the new law.
So these are the issues I would like you to focus on at the beginning of this Government meeting.
