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The meeting was devoted to the results of the nation’s social and economic development in 2006.

The President expressed satisfaction with the growth of the Russian economy, which, he said, stood at 6.9%.

And at the same period of time, the stock index has gone up by 65%, which is one of the world’s best figures, the head of state said. Fixed capital investments – both domestic and foreign ones – have grown substantially. Direct foreign investment alone has gone up by 55.5%.

In 2006, the main social indicators have improved. Real disposable incomes of the population have grown by 11.5%, and pensions have increased by 5.3% in real terms.

Priority national projects have started yielding results, and the government-drafted demographic program will get underway in the new year.

The president said that one of the most important achievements of the year was the government’s formulation of energy policy principles for the next few years, which was a difficult but responsible decision.

Putin mentioned the completion of talks with Russia’s major partners on WTO accession among the other important events of 2006.

The president also mentioned the importance of the de juro formation of Unified Aircraft-Building Corporation.

He noted that the Development Bank – a major instrument of funding and servicing infrastructure and innovation projects – was established in 2006.

Putin said that nine projects have been planned within the Investment Fund, and expressed the hope that the Venture Fund would also start working in Russia in the near future.

He expressed his appreciation of the government’s performance, and called on the cabinet to keep up the momentum they have gained.