The meeting summarised the yearend results of Federal Security Service activities and set short-term objectives.
The President noted the unchanging principles of Federal Security Service priorities. They included protecting the state and society from external and internal threats, defending civil rights and democratic values, and providing national security.
The President said the security officers would face the task of providing economic security, protecting the rights of businesses, fighting illegal migration, extremism and organised crime.
Fighting terrorism in all its manifestations was a primary task. The head of state stressed the Federal Security Service’s leading role in stabilising the situation in the North Caucasus and pointed to the process of political settlement in Chechnya. Mr Putin instructed the Federal Security Service to provide security during a referendum on the Constitution to be held in Chechnya on March 23.
The President noted the successful cooperation of the Federal Security Service and members of the counter-terrorist coalition. Much experience in coordinating operative and information activities was gained. The work should continue, because apart from ensuring security, cooperation in fighting against terrorism is an important factor of foreign policy, which significantly influences Russia’s relations with its allies and partners in the world, he said.
The President thanked Federal Security Service officials for their successful work in protecting the interests of citizens, society and the state. We are well aware of the victims of terrorist attacks, as well as of the cost of activities aimed at preventing these tragedies, Mr Putin said.