Gov't to step up allocations for scientific research

In 2004, the Russian government will increase allocations for fundamental scientific research by 50 percent against the year 2002, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov said at a function for awarding laureates of the Russian government prize for scientific and technological achievements. Kasyanov noted that at present Russian scientists and scholars were in need of particular attention on the part of authorities. According to him, the Russian government believes it is necessary to ensure social security of Russian scientists and scholars as well as to increase the financing of scientific research projects, particularly those related to such industries as machine manufacturing, agriculture and the oil and gas sector.

"The development of science and technologies is among the top priorities of the state, especially after Russia adopted an innovation approach to spurring economic recovery", the prime minister stressed. Kasyanov also pointed out the high authority of Russian scientists in the world arena. According to him, Russia remains one of the leaders as to scientific and technical potential. Kasyanov emphasized the necessity of taking every measure to ensure that scientists were needed by the economy. "This will attract youth to scientific research and preserve the continuity of science", the prime minister concluded.