MOSCOW, February 10th, 2004 (RIA Novosti correspondent) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated, "the FSB, the Interior Ministry and other structures should continue their systematic work to eliminate the terrorist network." Besides, the president emphasised the border guards' role in the fight against terrorism. "One of the most important elements in the fight against terrorism, organised crime and drug trafficking is good protection of the state border. I am counting on the professionalism of border guards and their organised interaction with relevant departments and power bodies in the regions," the head of state said at his meeting with senior officers on Tuesday.
He remarked that the interior ministry's main task was "to counteract crime and protect citizens' rights and interests from criminals." As for complex issues facing the State Drug Control Committee, Putin pointed out "provision of clear and effective co-ordination of the ministries and departments' efforts in the fight against the drug threat." The head of state expects "the updated legislation to help the Federal Migration Service control migration processes and ensure regulated inflow of the necessary workforce into the country."
