Rustam Minnikhanov: Tatarstan and Altai Territory can launch direct flights

On September 10, at their meeting in Barnaul, Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov and Governor of the Altai Territory Aleksandr Karlin discussed areas for further cooperation between the regions. In particular, they considered the expansion of cooperation in the field of mechanical engineering, prospects for the mutual supply of medicines and petrochemical products, the strengthening of ties in the field of science and technology, and also discussed joint actions aimed at increasing the volumes of inter-regional trade turnover, which now makes 2.1 billion roubles.

Talking to journalists, Karlin noted that the Altai Territory and Tatarstan have established a long-term relationship. "We have a cooperation agreement aimed at intensifying trade, economic and cultural cooperation. We are cooperating with the Association of Innovative Regions of Russia, where Tatarstan is the "founding father", and we are its active participants. This is a very useful practice for us,” the Governor said.

Minnikhanov thanked Karlin for the opportunity to visit the region and the high level of organization of the visit. "Our regions have developed good trade and economic ties, with export and import figures being almost the same. The Altai Territory is as major market for us as Tatarstan is for your region,” Tatarstan President said.  

He stressed that Tatarstan and the Altai Territory are already implementing a number of projects. “Tatneft Oil Company has a large programme for the extraction of bitumen oils with steam being the main component. We used to buy boiler equipment abroad, but it is expensive. Today we are the largest customers of our Biysk partners," he said.

Minnikhanov continued that by 2018 Kazan and Barnaul can launch direct flights that will be subsidized from the regional budgets. "The Altai Territory and Tatarstan are ready to subsidize these flights, because they need to be subsidized at first. We are ready for this. This will be a good opportunity for our residents to come to your health resorts. Tatarstan also has a lot of historical, cultural and sports facilities. This will be interesting and useful for both regions," Minnikhanov said.

At the end of the meeting, Minnikhanov congratulated residents of the Altai Territory on the 80th anniversary of the founding of the region.