Putin says gov't to take care of Russia's north

The government will be fulfilling its obligations to the citizens of Russia's northern regions, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared at a meeting with representatives of northern peoples in Salekhard. Businesses should handle territories that they explore with care, Putin stressed. There should be a comprehensive approach to the exploration of northern territories, Putin said. According to the President, the issue whether large companies should conclude agreements directly with municipalities or agreements with regions are enough to operate, remains undecided. Putin added that this question had not been worked out in detail as yet, Mayak radio reported.