The meeting was attended by the governors of nine Russian regions who received a vote of confidence from their fellow citizens on Russia's nationwide election day.
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President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Colleagues,
I have invited you here to congratulate you on your election to the high positions of regional governors and to wish you success in the important work that lies ahead.
I would like to emphasise once again – and this is nothing new – that people tie their hopes and expectations to you, their positive life changes and the resolution of issues facing the country as a whole and the regions that you will head.
All of you are experienced people. Some of you have served as regional governors for a long time whereas others are just starting this work. Nevertheless, the people who voted for you believe that you are bright people, real leaders who can form and lead functional teams and resolve the issues required for the advancement of your regions.
Naturally, all of you were elected with the support of the people – this is impossible otherwise – but you were also backed by various political forces and parties. I would like to say in this context that in assuming the office of regional governor, you should not forget that you will be representing the interests of all Russian citizens living in your regions regardless of their political preferences. You should listen to the representatives of all political forces, not only those who formed and registered political parties, but also spokespeople for civil society who live in your regions, who are active and are trying to tell you about their hopes and aspirations.
It goes without saying that you should focus on resolving the most immediate issues that seem simple and even somewhat boring at first sight but on which the welfare of every person and every family depends. Let’s talk about this.
I would like to congratulate you on your election once again, and wish you all the best.
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