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Business. The president noted the positive part big business plays in creating jobs and developing the country’s economic potential. The interests of business and the position of the authorities do not always coincide, but the state and business must find a common language.

Doubling the GDP. Mr. Putin said that doubling the GDP is a very ambitious objective for the country’s economy, but called it a task that is “realistic and can be fulfilled.” The main thing is to have political stability in society and at state level, and also to ensure economic stability.

Iran. Looking at the question of Iran, Mr. Putin noted that both Russia and the United States are categorically against proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and support strengthening the non-proliferation regime. Russia has received assurances from Iranian President Khatami that Iran has no plans to build its own nuclear weapons.

Russians abroad. Mr. Putin declared that Russia will protect its citizens wherever they may live. The president said that Russia will act firmly, but will try to strengthen rather than weaken ties and contacts between it and other countries.