The region’s socioeconomic situation was the subject of discussion. Mr Golubev said that the region has had a record harvest this year, more than 8.5 million tons of early grains and cereals, its best ever result. This will make it possible to start buying new equipment. Gross regional product and industrial output are increasing, and the construction sector, especially housing construction, is up by 22.9 percent compared to 2013.
The Governor also reported on the progress of works to repair and rebuild housing and infrastructure damaged by the flood.
The President thanked Rostov Region’s authorities and people for supporting the refugees from neighbouring Ukraine. Mr Putin noted that Rostov Region is bearing the main burden here as people in southeast Ukraine are forced to flee their homes and seek temporary shelter or permanent residence in Russia.
Mr Golubev said that accommodation has been organised for people at temporary shelters and with local residents. An individual approach is taken in each case. Around 9,000 children are studying now in the region’s schools, around 1,350 students are studying at universities in the region, and 550 children are attending local kindergartens. People with disabilities and senior citizens are receiving all required assistance. The regional authorities are helping people to find employment and more than 36,000 people have requested help in finding new work. Rostov Region’s mining towns, which had been experiencing a shortage of medical personnel, have now got nearly 100 new doctors. The region has also received just as many new teachers. These specialists undergo the necessary retraining and certification procedures as required by Russian laws and are starting in their new jobs.
Mr Golubev thanked the federal authorities for providing assistance in dealing with the influx of refugees from southeast Ukraine. Rostov Region shares a 600-kilometre-long border with this part of Ukraine.