2002 budget to be amended

Russian President Vladimir Putin has instructed the government to launch work this week in the State Duma /lower house/ in view of the forthcoming amendments to the 2002 budget. These amendments, according to the president, are linked with the need to meet social obligations to the military.

The head of state said as much at a Kremlin conference with the government.

Vladimir Putin reminded the cabinet members that last week he had signed a decree to increase allowances to the military.

The president also expressed confidence that the government and the Duma would meet each other halfway and find a solution to the issue. According to the Russian leader, these instructions can be fulfilled within a short period of time.

Besides, Vladimir Putin remarked that "active work will be launched over the 2003 budget." The president emphasised that he had sent a budget message to the government, under the achieved agreement.