RUSSIA, October 31 - Mikhail Mishustin’s opening remarks:

Good afternoon, colleagues.

At today’s regular strategic session, we will discuss measures that will help the socioeconomic revival of all Far Eastern regions as well as ensure the fulfilment of tasks set for us by the President.

The head of state emphasised that the advanced development of Far Eastern regions is our priority, our common responsibility and the task of the Government, the regions, and the largest domestic companies.

We are guided by this in our activities. We regularly visit the federal district to inspect the details of what is being done to improve the quality of life and determine where additional support is required from the Cabinet of Ministers. Moreover, due to external restrictions, we see how intensively transport corridors to Southeast Asia are being developed, and how the interest of businesses in participating in joint projects with friendly countries is growing. New opportunities are also emerging for the development of border regions.

I will briefly outline the results achieved.

Over the past ten years, hundreds of new enterprises have been launched and tens of thousands of new jobs have been created.

Production volumes have increased not only in the mining sector, but also in several other industries, such as construction, seaborne freight turnover, the agricultural complex and many others.

Increasing the accessibility of air travel is an important part of the federal district’s spatial development. Discounted fares are provided for passengers, and 34 socially significant routes are in demand. Travel time is now shorter, meaning the necessary infrastructure for this has appeared on earth. During our visits, we can see how airports are changing, creating comfortable conditions for flights that are so in demand among domestic and foreign tourists.

More to be posted soon.