President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, Mr Yevrayev.
Mikhail Yevrayev: Good afternoon, Mr President.
Vladimir Putin: Mr Yevrayev, did you graduate from St Petersburg University of Economics and Finance?
Mikhail Yevrayev: Yes, exactly right. Before university, right after leaving school, I went to work as a turner. Later I entered university and worked at a plant at the same time. So, I traversed the entire path from worker to boss
Vladimir Putin: Where did you work as a turner?
Mikhail Yevrayev: The Kalinin Plant on Vasilyevsky Island.
Vladimir Putin: I see. In Moscow you worked in interesting and very important areas such as at the Ministry of Regional Development and the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media. All this is obviously important and seriously broadens one’s outlook and opportunities for trying one’s hand at the federal level.
As far as I can see, the proposal made to you is somewhat unexpected. What do you think about it and if you take it, what goals would you set yourself? This is bearing in mind that the Yaroslavl Region is the very centre of Russia, a very industrialised region. You know the main types of business in the region as a whole, what they are linked with and how important they are for the civilian and defence industries. Go ahead, please.
Mikhail Yevrayev: Mr President, it is indeed a major region with a big history. Much has been done there recently but naturally, much remains to be done.
I have familiarised myself with the issues affecting the Yaroslavl Region. Of course, people are primarily concerned about road maintenance, transport, problems with housing and utilities and, naturally, soaring prices. Of course, it is necessary to go there and take a closer look, talk to local people and business owners and clearly outline the goals I will be pursuing in office.
But my experience of working on different projects in different capacities in the federal civil service during the past 17 years gives me confidence that I am up to the job.
Vladimir Putin: Mr Yevrayev, you have very good character references. Everyone who has worked with you over the years is very positive about your personal and professional qualities and your abilities, all of which I hope will be on display in this new, very important endeavour. You will have enough time to say what you can do for the Yaroslavl Region, which will play a role in the future election campaign.
I would like to wish you success. I assume after your first steps in this new job we will meet again to talk in more detail and discuss what is next for you in this position. I will do all I can to support you.
Mikhail Yevrayev: Thank you so much, Mr President. I will try to justify your confidence and the trust of the people of the Yaroslavl Region.
Vladimir Putin: That is what matters most. Thank you. All the best to you.
Mikhail Yevrayev: All the best.