Plenary session of RSPP Congress

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Colleagues, Mr Shokhin, friends,

I welcome all participants and guests of the 35^th Congress of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs. This event traditionally brings together owners and senior executives of major domestic companies and, naturally, attracts the attention of the entire Russian business community.

Many of those present in this hall meet with me regularly to discuss the most pressing issues facing your companies. Some of you work directly and regularly with the Government of the Russian Federation and officials of the Presidential Executive Office. Therefore, as they say, we are all well-versed in the subject, and I will not be announcing anything revolutionary today. Nevertheless, Mr Shokhin considers it appropriate to hold such meetings - they do not often take place on such a large scale - and there is likely some merit in doing so to reinforce certain key points. Indeed, the format of the Congress allows for discussions on current issues that play a crucial role in conducting business, improving the investment climate, formulating ideas, and outlining directions for further cooperation between the state and the business community.

To be continued.