Rustam Minnikhanov: “Head of a region should be able to strike a happy medium”

“Head of Russian regions should be able to strike a happy medium in relationships of federal and regional authorities”, - President of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov stated during the discussion at business lunch of Savings Bank of Russia “Russian regions: modernization or marginalization? Formula of success” within the limits of X international investment forum in Sochi. Chairman of the JSC “Savings Bank of Russia” Board German Gref led the discussion.

Head of Savings Bank defined issues to be debated. By words of German Gref there are successful regions in Russia but their achievements are not spread throughout the country. “Why cannot we pass the experience of successful regions, why don’t we see even improvement of living standards? What should we do for it?”, - German Gref said.

In the course of discussion representatives of federal authorities, heads of federation subjects and experts expressed their opinion on measures to be taken for stimulating development of regions. Among proposals were redistribution of powers between federal centre and regions, consolidation of subjects and return of gubernatorial elections.

President of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov took part in discussion. German Gref asked head of republic what is the secret of region’s success. According to Rustam Minnikhanov successful development of the subject is the result of common efforts of federal and regional authorities. “Head of region is a person who should be able to strike a happy medium in any situation working for the benefit of his region and citizens. Unfortunately, it is not always possible”, - RT President said.

“As for me, I try to establish relationships both with federal and local authorities. Competition and fighting between authorities make no good”, - R.Minnikhanov said.