Ways to ensure social stability in Russia’s southern regions and their economic development were discussed at the forum.
A tangible stabilisation of the situation has been achieved in the North Caucasus, the President said. The conflicts and military confrontation are receding into the past. The peace process in the Chechen Republic is becoming unstoppable.
President Putin also noted that economic growth was necessary in order to turn the republic into a prospering region. Cultural, religious and inter-ethnic problems cannot be resolved without economic growth.
Chechnya has great opportunities for developing small businesses, transport corridors, agriculture and health resorts, Mr Putin said.
In conclusion, President Putin recalled Imam Shamil’s behest to his sons to stand by the Russian state and to live in peace and accord with its peoples.