Tatarstan President: ‘USA Chamber of Commerce is important for Tatarstan'

President of Tatarstan Mintimer Shaimiev has met with the President of American Chamber of Commerce in Russia Andrew Somers. The first Deputy Prime Minister of Tatarstan Ravil Muratov, Tatarstan Minister of Industry and Trade Alexander Kogogin, and Chairman of Tatarstan Chamber of Industry and Commerce board of directors Shamil Ageyev have also taken part in the meeting.

President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Russia and representatives of the largest American companies – Baker Hughes (oil refining), AIG Life (insurance), Citigroup and GE Money Bank (banking), and some others. Businessmen will participate in Tatarstan-American business forum, visit American Center in Kazan, Technopark ‘Idea’, Ak Bars Bank. They will also meet with ministers of industry and trade, and economy.

Opening meeting, Mintimer Shaimiev indicated significance of the delegation’s visit to Kazan. “I’d like to thank you for the visit with such a respectful delegation,” the head of the republic addressed Andrew Somers. “It is a good sign for our cooperation.”

“You represent the USA – the country that produces over 20 per cent of the world production,” Tatarstan President said. “Russia has what to learn from you.”

Mintimer Shaimiev also indicated importance of cooperation between Tatarstan enterprises and American partners. “Your visit is important for us, because you have knowledge and experience – how to behave in conditions of market economy development,” Tatarstan President stated.

In an interview after the meeting Andrew Somers informed that Mintimer Shaimiev presented the current situation in Tatarstan economy to the guests. “We haven’t made any specific decisions, but we have discussed opportunities for business in Tatarstan in connection with diversification of economy,” A. Somers said. “We also considered issues of intellectual potential of the republic and its role in industrial development.”

The first Vice-Premier of Tatarstan Government Ravil Muratov informed that priorities in Tatarstan economy remain the same. “It is of particular importance that innovative economy is in force,” he said.

“We have gained considerable experience in cooperation with American companies,” R. Muratov emphasized. “They introduce new experience, new ideas. It is important for Tatarstan, that’s why we are going to support and develop cooperation with companies from the USA.”