MOSCOW, May 30 (RIA Novosti) - A discussion of Russia’s social and economic concept up to 2020 will determine the country’s role in the global economy, a Russian economic development ministry official said.
During the forum discussions, which will open on June 6, “we will try to understand who we are and what we want to do in our relations with other countries,” said Sergei Chernyshev, director of the ministry’s foreign economic relations department.
The official told reporters during a TV link between Moscow and London that Russia is currently experiencing a “stage of self-identification,” adding that while being a leader in raw materials and the energy sector, Russia lacks “breakthrough technology” and innovation.
The conference is being organized by RIA Novosti and Chatham House, formally known as the Royal Institute of International Affairs, under the auspices of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and the U.K.'s leading provider of professional services, KPMG.
“This period needs to end as soon as possible and we should move to a new stage - a distinct system of tight state regulation in the foreign economic sector, when everyone who wants support or has any difficulties will know where to turn to and that support will be provided,” Chernyshev said.
Concept 2020 is expected to be approved by the Russian government by the end of 2008. The economic development ministry plans to introduce it to the Cabinet in August.
