Prime Minister Says Russian Science Retains Its Leading Position

Russian science has retained its leading position in the world, and knowledge and developments of Russian scientists are no less competitive than Russian raw materials, according to Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov, who spoke at the meeting with laureates of the government's prize in the field of science and technology for the year 2000. One hundred and seventy works were presented for the prize, and 50 of them have been awarded. According to the Premier, the main goal of the government is practical application of Russian scientists' and constructors' ideas. Kasyanov recognized that Russian scientists and constructors were working in complicated conditions, achieving the world level of developments basically due to self-devotion. He said that the government was doing its best to raise the prestige of scientific research in Russia and drawing young people into the field to take over the experience of outstanding scientists. Kasyanov noted that governmental prizes were a good moral incentive, but the government was ready to provide material support for the scientists. He mentioned that state employees' salaries would be almost two-fold increased by the end of the year. Young scientists will have opportunities to receive special grants for continuation of their research.