Russia's economy has almost adapted to the situation with oil prices, so there is nothing dramatic in fluctuations of these prices, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok.
"I think that these adjustments were expected, and, of course, this affects energy prices," TASS cited him as saying.
Putin also noted other reasons for the fall in oil prices, including excess production of hydrocarbons and the possible return of Iranian oil to the market.
Accordingly, the Russian government will fulfill all its social obligations, the head of state assured: the authorities have a plan of work in the current situation, which is not extraordinary, since a similar situation was observed in 2008-2009 an some other periods.
Putin also commented on the initiative of the government on the three-year transition from a one-year budget, giving it a positive assessment.
"Our general line is not simply to shoot our reserves or use exclusively budgetary sources to support the industries or individual companies. The general line is to expand free enterprise, to unbureaucratize our economic system, to improve the decision-making system and the business climate," he explained.
The head of state noted that targeted actions to support the labor market, production and the social sphere will be implemented if needed. Putin added that the actions of the authorities in these areas are transparent as possible, recalling that he constantly holds meetings with the economic bloc of the government, including conversations with Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, one of which recently took place in Sochi. The President also pointed out that, under these circumstances, the Russian Central Bank is carrying out the necessary activity.
In addition, Vladimir Putin said that the management of oil and gas companies in Russia will be able to raise their efficiency and competitiveness. He added that he is personally acquainted with the heads of the companies and therefore he can assess their potential, as well as the potential of the industry.
