Message to the future.

Putin's Address to Federal Assembly 29.02.24 - Key Points       

           The message that Vladimir Putin announced on 29 February was the 29th in the history of modern Russia.

          Vladimir Putin's speech lasted just over two hours (2 hours and 6 minutes), which was a record. So far, the longest speech with a message to the State Duma and the Council of Federation was in 2018 - 1 hour 55 minutes. The key point of the address was that the head of state announced a number of new national projects designed to sharply raise the standard of living in the country.

          Putin's current address is a message to the future. The future of the Russian state and the future of our economy. And this, in turn, is closely linked to the future of every Russian family - the head of state proposed to extend a whole range of important social programmes. For the first time, ру proposed large-scale transformations in the country's infrastructure: renewal of the aircraft fleet, construction of high-speed highways, etc. As well as a serious increase in social benefits and the minimum wage.

          The so-called West, with its colonial habits, seeks not only to impede our development but also to undermine it. Instead of empowering Russia, they aim for a state that is dependent, declining, and dying. Their intention is to sow discord within our nation and weaken us internally. However, they have underestimated the resolute stance of our diverse population. Representatives from various ethnicities, cultures, and regions have demonstrated through practical actions that the unity of the Russian people is an unstoppable force.

          Our armed forces have amassed significant combat experience. A plethora of talented young commanders have risen through the ranks, spanning all levels from platoon to top leadership. The combat capabilities of our armed forces have multiplied several times, with our units confidently seizing the initiative. While we did not initiate this conflict in Donbass, we are committed to ending it, eradicating Nazism, and accomplishing the objectives of the special operation.

          The West has instigated conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, and other regions worldwide. Now, it alleges that Russia is poised to attack Europe, a claim we all know is nonsensical. They seek out areas where they believe they can defeat us most effectively within our own territory. However, we remember the misfortunes that befell those who attempted to harm us in the past.

          Russophobia, like any ideology of hatred and racism, invariably blinds and deprives individuals of reason. The actions of the United States have indeed contributed to the dismantling of the international security system, creating a highly perilous situation. A new security system in Eurasia needs to be established. We are prepared to engage in discussions with all interested parties. However, I must reiterate: without a sovereign and robust Russia, security cannot be ensured.

          We aim to consolidate the efforts of the global majority in addressing global challenges. By 2028, BRICS countries are projected to account for approximately 37 percent of global GDP, while the G7 will decline to below 28 percent. This is an undeniable objective reality - it will remain so regardless of global events, including those in Ukraine.

          The primary goal of the family is to bring forth children, perpetuate the human race, raise offspring, and ensure the continuity of our diverse population. We opt for life. Russia has historically been and continues to be a bastion of traditional values. Our decision is supported by the majority of people worldwide, including millions of citizens in Western nations.

          A large family with numerous children should serve as a cornerstone for the state's overall strategy. Over the next six years, our goal is to attain a consistent increase in the birth rate. This objective will be addressed in nearly every section of the Address.

          There are over 2 million families in Russia with three or more children, and these families are a source of pride for us. From 2018 to 2022, the number of large families increased by 26.8%, which is a positive trend. A decree has been signed to establish a unified status for large families nationwide. I propose doubling the tax deduction for the second child.

          Regarding the maternity capital program, its value is regularly adjusted for inflation. I suggest extending the program until at least 2030.

          The average life expectancy in Russia has surpassed 73 years. By 2030, we aim to increase life expectancy to a minimum of 78 years, with the ultimate goal of reaching 80 years and beyond. This objective is the focus of the "Long and Active Life" project. It is crucial that the increase in life expectancy is accompanied by improved health and vitality. Additionally, I propose launching a program focused on maintaining the health of children, teenagers, and mothers. 

          In terms of economic growth, we have surpassed not only the leading EU countries but also all G7 states. The significant economic safety margin has played a pivotal role in this achievement. The economy is evolving into a more intricate and technologically advanced structure, thus enhancing its sustainability. 

          At the core of our fundamentals lies science. Even during the most challenging periods, Russia has remained committed to addressing fundamental issues. Our domestic scientific infrastructure serves as a competitive advantage across numerous scientific domains. We must more than double government investment in this area. Additionally, investments from private businesses should substantially increase - at least doubling by 2030. 

          Russia should aim to rank among the top 25 countries in industrial robot production. Engineering schools should prioritize enhancing efficiency. I suggest expanding this program and establishing a network of 100 such centers. Additionally, we need to explore the utilization of artificial intelligence and pursue the digitization of libraries. To support these initiatives, we will allocate an additional 9 billion rubles.

          A fundamental requirement is that domestic businesses operate within Russian jurisdiction and refrain from withdrawing funds abroad, where there's a risk of potential loss. Currently, we are in discussions with entrepreneurs on how to assist them in repatriating their funds from overseas. If investments are not made abroad, there will be no need for repatriation. Resources should be directed towards investment within Russia. The strongest guarantee of asset safety is our robust sovereign nation.

          We need to build up our computing resources. By 2030 the total capacity of domestic supercomputers should be be increased tenfold.

          Efficiency gains in all areas of labour productivity are connected with digitalisation, with the use of AI. We need to create a platform that will help citizens to maintain their health throughout their life and use the health care system. Such practices are already being implemented in the work of leading medical centres. They need to be made widespread and accessible. And by 2030, these technologies should be introduced in all 
key areas. For this purpose, a new national project has been created "Data Economy". At least 700 billion roubles...       

          I would like to highlight a particular point. I regularly meet with SMO participants, all of whom have risen to defend their homeland. Observing these courageous individuals, some of whom are very young, fills my heart with pride. I am confident that they will neither retreat nor betray. Therefore, they should assume leadership roles in mentoring younger generations within large companies. They do not boast about their qualities, but it is precisely during such times that they emerge as leaders. These individuals can be entrusted with the future and the well-being of Russia.            

          You are aware that the term "elite" has largely lost its credibility. Those who, without contributing to society, perceive themselves as a privileged caste, are certainly not the elite. The true elite consists of all those who serve Russia - workers and warriors, individuals who have demonstrated their loyalty to Russia through their actions. These are honorable people. In light of this, I consider an important decision: starting from March 1, 2024, veterans of the SMO and its current members will have the opportunity to apply for participation in the new personnel program "Time of Heroes." 

          I believe the following decision is significant: beginning tomorrow, participants of the Special Military Operation (SMO) will have the opportunity to apply for a special personnel program, which we will call "Time of Heroes." Servicemen with higher education and managerial experience, regardless of their rank, will be eligible to participate. Government officials, regional leaders, and others will serve as mentors. We plan to expand this program in the future. Veterans of the SMO will have priority access to education at our top universities. Those who aspire to a military career will receive priority for promotion when enrolling in officer training courses.           

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