Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated that authorities should initiate updated national projects while the execution of existing initiatives is scheduled to wrap up in 2024. He conveyed this during a session of the Strategic Development and National Projects Council, underscoring the need to reassess priorities and align them with the country’s evolving needs and capabilities. The comments reflect a deliberate shift toward a refreshed agenda that builds on past gains and seeks to chart a clear path for the coming years.
He spoke about clarifying national development goals and extending the planning horizon to the mid-2030s. The president emphasized the importance of setting concrete targets, defining the parameters of development that correspond to strengthened capabilities, and meeting the high expectations of society. This stance signals a move from a shorter planning cycle to a broader, longer-term framework that can better anticipate demographic shifts, technological change, and regional development disparities. By outlining forward-looking benchmarks, the leadership aims to create a more resilient and adaptable roadmap for the country’s economic and social progress.
Putin stressed that national projects should be prepared in a timely manner and restarted when needed. This outlook implies ongoing evaluation, readiness to adjust programs in response to new data, and a commitment to maintaining momentum across key sectors. The focus on timely preparation and restart underscores the balance between continuity in essential infrastructure and the flexibility required to respond to shifting priorities, whether due to economic conditions, public health considerations, or global developments.
The president also touched on life expectancy in Russia, noting improvements that outpace pre-pandemic levels. He referenced recent national statistics showing a continued rise in life expectancy over the year, supported by decade-spanning improvements in healthcare access, preventive measures, and living standards. The data cited indicate lower mortality rates in several age groups, including reductions in deaths among children, which the leadership views as a meaningful sign of progress in public health and social policy. These indicators are presented as part of a broader narrative about improving quality of life and the effectiveness of government programs designed to support healthy living across the population.
Additionally, Putin acknowledged ongoing concerns about increasing birth rates in Russia, highlighting the complexity of demographic dynamics and the need for policies that encourage family growth while sustaining economic stability. The discussion points to a multi-faceted approach that combines healthcare, social support, housing, and education to create conditions favorable to larger families. The aim is to ensure that demographic trends align with long-term development objectives, reinforcing the workforce, consumption, and innovation capacities essential for sustained growth. The dialogue on birth rates reflects an acknowledgment that demographic health is integral to a stable, prosperous society and requires a coordinated policy response across government and regional authorities.