During the video conference, a wide range of topics of interest to young Russians was discussed – particularly the fight against alcohol and drug abuse, youth involvement in volunteer movements, and the prospects for visa-free travel between Russia and Europe.
Mr Medvedev is sure that Russia is ready for visa-free travel with the European Union. "I think we have a good chance to reach an agreement with our European colleagues on full visa-free travel within a few years," he said.
Answering questions from those at Gvardeisk 2012 camp, Dmitry Medvedev said that retailers should be liable for alcohol sales to underage buyers. However, there is a legal loophole in which shop owners can avoid responsibility by claiming that they expressly ordered their employees not to sell alcoholic beverages to minors.
"We might establish a sort of dual responsibility – it might be a criminal liability for shop clerks while owners could be held administratively liable and could loose their alcohol sales license in cases where it's difficult to prove their intent," said the prime minister, adding that a package on stiffening penalties for the sales of alcohol to underage buyers has been submitted to the State Duma.
Mr Medvedev approved an initiative by Maxim Borovik involved in a project of the United Russia's Young Guard, who proposed establishing volunteer training centres at the Emergencies Ministry rescue and fire fighting colleges.
"I support the idea of the centres. We have several similar centres in Russia, and the Emergencies Ministry is willing to establish more of them and involve voluntary fire brigades," Mr Medvedev said.