Rustam Minnikhanov at meeting with representatives of federal and regional media agencies: Stability is the main thing for me

On December 20, at a meeting with representatives of federal and regional media agencies on results of the departing year, Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov said that all planned programmes were implemented in the republic. “We are finishing the year with a slight economic growth, but as for tax revenues and capital investments, the planned targets have been achieved.

Speaking about current situation at the currency market, Rustam Minnikhanov said that even under economic sanctions and drop in oil prices there were no prerequisites for such a fall in exchange-value of rouble.

As for renaming the position of Tatarstan President, Minnikhanov said: “We must follow the laws we have in our country. According to the law, only head of the state can be called “President”. Stability is the main thing for me today. Further economic development of the republic will depend on stability.”

Answering the question why is Tatarstan ranked one of top regions in economic, sport and other ratings, Minnikhanov said that it depends on people, citizens of the republic. “Our people are very determined. One cannot change the economic situation and achieve success in sport in one day, you should take efforts,” he noted.

Speaking about measures on improving foreign economic cooperation and attraction of new investors, Minnikhanov said that all actions were approved by the federal center.

“Our country is multi-ethnic, and we should use this advantage. Vladimir Putin entrusted me with coordinating work with the Islamic world. Tatarstan has a good reputation in the world, proved itself to be a reliable partner, which helps us working on expanding economic contacts in international community. We are trying to work hard in order not to lose a single partner,” Rustam Minnikhanov said.

Mentioning sanctions and current business environment, the president said that many people understand the difference between politics and business.
As for rise in prices for groceries, Minnikhanov said that the situation is constantly monitored in the republic, and there are no issues for concern.

It was also noted that the first start-up facilities of innovative satellite town “Innopolis” will start working in summer of 2015. “Smart City Kazan” that is also an attractive project will be implemented according to demand and resources of the republic.

Rustam Minnikhanov also focused on development of oil-producing industry noting that the republic has the whole infrastructure of oil production, intake, and processing.

According to president of the republic, such projects as “Parks and squires” require support of mass media today.

Answering questions about support of the agricultural industry, Minnikhanov said: “Our budget assignments have been fixed, and I think that the federal government will support us considering current situation at the international market.”

Summing up, Rustam Minnikhanov wished journalists good luck in their work and happy New Year.