Russia's Cabinet to adopt Siberia development strategy

In February the Russian government plans to adopt a development strategy for Siberia. The document is being prepared on the instruction of President Vladimir Putin, said Russian Vice-Premier Alexei Kudrin. On Saturday he participated in a conference on development in Siberia, which was held in the city of Tomsk, an industrial center of the region.

According to Kudrin, the initiative of adopting the programme was put forward over a year ago. The programme was developed by representatives of different regions of Siberia, companies operating there, federal ministries and departments.

The government has now rejected adoption of suchlike programmes. An exception is made for Siberia, because its development prospects are of crucial importance for this country. The programme will be aimed at the development of Siberia's industrial and export potential, more active use of its natural resources, the Russian vice-premier reported.