President's Advisor: It is possible to double GDP in 10 years

'It is possible to double GDP in the time set by the Russian president,' Economic Advisor to the Russian President Andrei Illarionov has announced. As a Rosbalt correspondent reports, he made this announcement at a press conference yesterday. Mr Illarionov added that in two weeks' time he will be ready to give 'a presentation of exactly what needs to be done to double GDP within 10 years.'

The presidential advisor said it would only be possible to achieve Mr Putin's target 'by cutting the costs incurred by government control and monopolies.' He is convinced that the proposed reform of the energy sector 'prevents any possibility of raising living standards and GDP.'

In general Mr Illarionov believes 'there is nothing surprising or unusual' about the prospect of doubling GDP within 10 years. He pointed out that China has raised GDP by 6.5 times over the last 24 years. GDP has doubled in 71 different countries over the last ten years. 'I see no reason why Russia should not join this list of countries,' Mr Illarionov concluded.