MOSCOW, February 24, 2004. (RIA Novosti correspondent Oleg Osipov) - The state bears the major responsibility for forming and developing the modern scientific environment, for education of scientific personnel and financing of promising fundamental and applied research, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at the joint session of the Russian Security Council and the State Council's Presidium.
"Due to our increased economic possibilities, we have started raising state investment in these areas," the President said.
At the same time, "it is necessary to consider efficient forms of state incentives to innovation activities in the private sector as well," he emphasized.
"We should fearlessly give up the outdated forms of preferences," the Russian leader said. According to him, a sensible alternative to it is providing of a maximum economic freedom while creating favorable conditions for competition.
The head of state also pointed to the need to provide active diplomatic coverage to Russian scientists and innovation companies on the international market.
