President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, Mr Turchak.
Andrei Turchak: Good afternoon, Mr President.
Vladimir Putin: Mr Turchak, you have a solid background working in regional executive bodies, particularly in Pskov, where you have achieved commendable results. For the past few years, you have been serving in the Federation Council, which is also an important role. You are a member of United Russia.
However, I would like to request that you return to executive work and assume leadership in one of the regions. It is a promising region, especially today, considering its vibrant growth and our plans to develop the tourism industry. I am talking about the Republic of Altai.
As a member of the Federation Council, you are well acquainted with the situation in the Russian regions, including Altai.
What are your thoughts on this offer?
Andrei Turchak: Mr President, thank you for your confidence in me. I assure you that I will do everything in my power to live up to your expectations.
The Republic of Altai is indeed a unique region with significant potential and wonderful and hard-working people. I will make every effort to gain their support during the election campaign and to fully unlock the wealth of this republic’s potential, a unique Russian region. Thank you for your trust.
I do have a question, though. Once I delve deeper into the local situation and understand more about its issues and outline priorities, would it be possible to arrange a one-on-one meeting with you where I could present a detailed and substantive report?
Once again, thank you very much.
Vladimir Putin: By all means, we will meet and talk about this. It is customary to do so.
I want to emphasise that the Republic of Altai is a very promising but also challenging region. It is a multi-ethnic republic with a rich history. As I mentioned earlier, it is a very interesting region with considerable potential for development.
We will certainly discuss this separately and in more detail than at our today’s meeting. Good luck.
It goes without saying that, in the months leading up to the elections, it is important to extensively engage with the local community and the people.
Andrei Turchak: Thank you, Mr President.
Vladimir Putin: I wish you every success and all the best.