As he opened the meeting on the socio-economic development of the Chukotka Autonomous District, Dmitry Medvedev emphasised that the main factor hindering the dynamic development of the region is poor transport and energy infrastructure. It is possible to solve this problem using the region’s resources —the solution requires major investment projects to develop the road and rail network, small aircraft, and renewable energies.
Dmitry Medvedev emphasised the special role of Chukotka in the development of the Arctic region. Chukotka can and should regain its role as a key link to the North Sea route. Port infrastructure in the region needs to be developed to provide year-round access to icebreaker escorts. The President said that use of Chukotka’s ports of deserves separate attention and special study by the government cabinet. According to the head of state, the effective development of the Arctic is of strategic importance not only for Chukotka, but also the entire Far East.
The implementation of all projects requires the introduction of modern technologies to develop new mineral deposits and remote areas. This should improve the business climate in the region. According to the President, in the long run getting rid of infrastructural constraints will allow Chukotka to become fully integrated with the Far East and raise living standards in the district.