As part of the process of division of powers between the different state authorities, work must be done to define the functions, rights and obligations in the cultural sphere of the federal, regional and municipal authorities, complete the process of deciding ownership of and responsibility for cultural assets, and create legal and economic conditions for investment in culture.
Mr. Putin said it is important to develop a system of state orders for creative productions of major social significance.
The president also spoke in favour of further developing the practice of giving out grants and state scholarships.
Mr. Putin supported a proposal by Mikhail Piotrovsky, the director of the State Hermitage Museum, to create a federal archaeological protection service. The State Council held its session in the Hermitage building in St. Petersburg.