Federation, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the 10th and 11th centuries. Let me remind you what exactly this reform consisted of. The 1993 Constitution, well, of course, you all know about this, but let's remind ourselves and the citizens. The 1993 Constitution prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then the Federation Council included, personally, by position, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies. And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country, for the preservation of our state unity in that difficult and, frankly, transitional in every sense of the word period. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such a so-called dual role, both leading a region and adopting federal laws, created a duality of status. Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are, after all, different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. Well, we understand, yes, when a person adopts a law and must execute it himself, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it, solved it, because we felt then that it still affected the entire system of power. Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council, so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper house on a permanent, professional basis. And they could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection of the unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would sound convincingly and be taken into account. Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern appearance of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The amount of substantive work on draft laws increased. As a result, as I have already said, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities for solving local problems, improving the quality of life of people, revealing their economic potential, competitive advantages, from which the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country is formed.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted further. Thus, in 2012, elements of election were introduced. Candidates for the post of governor had to announce in advance, even at the stage of the election campaign, their trio of candidates for senatorial seats. And from the legislative assembly, such a representative could only become a deputy of the regional parliament elected in the course of democratic procedures. Legitimacy. Thus, the representativeness of the upper house also increased. In addition, we established job requirements for members of the Federation Council, including the need for a personal, direct connection with a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded after the introduction of substantive, systemic amendments to the Constitution in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took the most active part in their development. The very term 'senator', previously unofficial, was enshrined in law. It was then that new powers appeared for your colleagues in the State Duma, and for the Federation Council itself in terms of parliamentary control, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system, in the prosecution, conducting consultations when appointing members of the government in the areas of foreign policy, justice, and the security bloc. I know that the Federation Council approaches these issues professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility. To be honest, of course, no one expected anything else. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state approach and count on the continuation, as before, of close joint work.
I repeat, the name of the position, the options for forming the Federation Council have changed over the years. And more than once, as I just said, but its legal and political nature, purpose, one might say, mission, remain unchanged. This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. This is participation in making significant state decisions, strengthening the country's international positions through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council, in fact, ensures the interconnection between the levels of a single public authority. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions. In their wide diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion lies our wealth. Valentina Ivanovna also mentioned this just now. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans, development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus. Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work directly depends on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative power, but they are realized, embodied in life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now. It is necessary to more actively, so to speak, more closely involve the regions in the development of new decisions on the national agenda. And control over their implementation must, of course, be established. Just like representatives of public non-profit organizations, veteran and youth structures, business circles, and local expert platforms of citizens' associations. They should have more opportunities within existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals. By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the future of the country. I know that the Federation Council regularly holds Days of the Regions of Russia, and off-site events are practiced. I ask you to continue to increase the involvement of the regions in this common joint work. All subjects of the federation have their own growth points, strong sides. Undoubtedly, they need to be seen and supported. And this is our and your, in this case, sacred duty. Each of you, senators of Russia, is a politician and legislator. But at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions and must not just know thoroughly, but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda, out of the field of view of ministries and departments, executive authorities. After all, your authority and the trust of the people, the knowledge of the senator of their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must, undoubtedly, be confirmed day after day with every word, deed, real, weighty results of service to the country and the people. And in this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible posts in federal government bodies, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies. I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions, now work here, and some from the upper house move to the government or head the regions of the Russian Federation. This is a very good practice, a real personnel school. In total, over these 25 years, almost 800 people have gained experience working in the chamber of regions. The composition of the Federation Council, like other government bodies, will undoubtedly continue to be updated in accordance with the law, gradually, regularly, taking into account the results of the unified days of voting. At the same time, I am confident that the high quality and continuity of the legislative process, the professional traditions of the Federation Council, will undoubtedly be ensured.
Dear colleagues, I want to thank you for your work, for your constant attention to our heroes, participants in combat operations, their families, to the issues of the key demographic agenda for us, to the problems of legal and socio-economic integration of our historical regions. And, of course, for participating in the work on the federal budget, which reflects all these, yes, and all other main priorities. In general, for supporting our course for the strengthening and development of Russia. Such agreement, commitment to national interests are extremely important for the parliament, for both its chambers, for the country. And in a period of historical trials, global changes, they are simply priceless. I thank you for this. Thank you. And once again, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year. Thank you very much.
Ivanovna. Dear senators of the Russian Federation, colleagues, friends. First of all, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year holidays. The Parliament of Russia, both its chambers, are completing the autumn session with good results. There was indeed a lot of work. A number of important legislative decisions were adopted in the interests of the country and our citizens. Strengthening national security, development of the economy, the social sphere. And for the senators, the outgoing 2025 was especially significant also because, Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this, it marked 25 years since the first deep reform of the Federation Council, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries. Let me remind you what exactly this reform consisted of. The 1993 Constitution, well, of course, you all know about this, but let's remind ourselves and the citizens. The 1993 Constitution prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then the Federation Council included, personally, by position, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies. And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country, for the preservation of our state unity in that difficult and, frankly, transitional in every sense of the word period. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such a so-called dual role, both leading a region and adopting federal laws, created a duality of status. Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are, after all, different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. Well, we understand, yes, when a person adopts a law and must execute it himself, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it, solved it, because we felt then that it still affected the entire system of power. Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council, so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper house on a permanent, professional basis, and they could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection of the unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would sound convincingly and be taken into account. Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern appearance of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The amount of substantive work on draft laws increased. As a result, as I have already said, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities for solving local problems, improving the quality of life of people, revealing their economic potential, competitive advantages, from which the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country is formed.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted further. Thus, in 2012, elements of election were introduced. Candidates for the post of governor had to announce in advance, even at the stage of the election campaign, their trio of candidates for senatorial seats. And from the legislative assembly, such a representative could only become a deputy of the regional parliament elected in the course of democratic procedures. Legitimacy. Thus, the representativeness of the upper house also increased. In addition, we established job requirements for members of the Federation Council, including the need for a personal, direct connection with a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded after the introduction of substantive, systemic amendments to the Constitution in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took the most active part in their development. The very term 'senator', previously unofficial, was enshrined in law. It was then that new powers appeared for your colleagues in the State Duma, and for the Federation Council itself in terms of parliamentary control, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system, in the prosecution, conducting consultations when appointing members of the government in the areas of foreign policy, justice, and the security bloc. I know that the Federation Council approaches these issues professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility. To be honest, of course, no one expected anything else. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state approach and count on the continuation, as before, of close joint work.
I repeat, the name of the position, the options for forming the Federation Council have changed over the years. And more than once, as I just said, but its legal and political nature, purpose, one might say, mission, remain unchanged. This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. This is participation in making significant state decisions, strengthening the country's international positions through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council, in fact, ensures the interconnection between the levels of a single public authority. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions. In their wide diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion lies our wealth. Valentina Ivanovna also mentioned this just now. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans, development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus. Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work directly depends on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative power. But they are realized, embodied in life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now. It is necessary to more actively, so to speak, more closely involve the regions in the development of new decisions on the national agenda. And control over their implementation must, of course, be established. Just like representatives of public non-profit organizations, veteran and youth structures, business circles, and local expert platforms of citizens' associations. They should have more opportunities within existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals. By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the future of the country. I know that the Federation Council regularly holds Days of the Regions of Russia, and off-site events are practiced. I ask you to continue to increase the involvement of the regions in this common joint work. All subjects of the federation have their own growth points, strong sides. Undoubtedly, they need to be seen and supported. And this is our and your, in this case, sacred duty. Each of you, senators of Russia, is a politician and legislator, but at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions and must not just know thoroughly, but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda, out of the field of view of ministries and departments, executive authorities. After all, your authority and the trust of the people, the knowledge of the senator of their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must, undoubtedly, be confirmed day after day with every word, deed, real, weighty results of service to the country and the people. And in this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible posts in federal government bodies, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies. I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions, now work here, and some from the upper house move to the government or head the regions of the Russian Federation. This is a very good practice, a real personnel school. In total, over these 25 years, almost 800 people have gained experience working in the chamber of regions. The composition of the Federation Council, like other government bodies, will undoubtedly continue to be updated in accordance with the law, gradually, regularly, taking into account the results of the unified days of voting. At the same time, I am confident that the high quality and continuity of the legislative process, the professional traditions of the Federation Council, will undoubtedly be ensured.
Dear colleagues, I want to thank you for your work, for your constant attention to our heroes, participants in combat operations, their families, to the issues of the key demographic agenda for us, to the problems of legal and socio-economic integration of our historical regions. And, of course, for participating in the work on the federal budget, which reflects all these, yes, and all other main priorities. In general, for supporting our course for the strengthening and development of Russia. Such agreement, commitment to national interests are extremely important for the parliament, for both its chambers, for the country. And in a period of historical trials, global changes, they are simply priceless. I thank you for this. Thank you. And once again, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year. Thank you very much.
Ivanovna. Dear senators of the Russian Federation, colleagues, friends. First of all, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year holidays. The Parliament of Russia, both its chambers, are completing the autumn session with good results. There was indeed a lot of work. A number of important legislative decisions were adopted in the interests of the country and our citizens. Strengthening national security, development of the economy, the social sphere. And for the senators, the outgoing 2025 was especially significant also because, Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this, it marked 25 years since the first deep reform of the Federation Council, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries. Let me remind you what exactly this reform consisted of. The 1993 Constitution, well, of course, you all know about this, but let's remind ourselves and the citizens. The 1993 Constitution prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then the Federation Council included, personally, by position, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies. And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country, for the preservation of our state unity in that difficult and, frankly, transitional in every sense of the word period. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such a so-called dual role, both leading a region and adopting federal laws, created a duality of status. Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are, after all, different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. Well, we understand, yes, when a person adopts a law and must execute it himself, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it, solved it, because we felt then that it still affected the entire system of power. Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council, so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper house on a permanent, professional basis, and they could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection of the unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would sound convincingly and be taken into account. Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern appearance of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The amount of substantive work on draft laws increased. As a result, as I have already said, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities for solving local problems, improving the quality of life of people, revealing their economic potential, competitive advantages, from which the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country is formed.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted further. Thus, in 2012, elements of election were introduced. Candidates for the post of governor had to announce in advance, even at the stage of the election campaign, their trio of candidates for senatorial seats. And from the legislative assembly, such a representative could only become a deputy of the regional parliament elected in the course of democratic procedures. Legitimacy. Thus, the representativeness of the upper house also increased. In addition, we established job requirements for members of the Federation Council, including the need for a personal, direct connection with a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded after the introduction of substantive, systemic amendments to the Constitution in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took the most active part in their development. The very term 'senator', previously unofficial, was enshrined in law. It was then that new powers appeared for your colleagues in the State Duma, and for the Federation Council itself in terms of parliamentary control, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system, in the prosecution, conducting consultations when appointing members of the government in the areas of foreign policy, justice, and the security bloc. I know that the Federation Council approaches these issues professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility. To be honest, of course, no one expected anything else. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state approach and count on the continuation, as before, of close joint work.
I repeat, the name of the position, the options for forming the Federation Council have changed over the years. And more than once, as I just said, but its legal and political nature, purpose, one might say, mission, remain unchanged. This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. This is participation in making significant state decisions, strengthening the country's international positions through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council, in fact, ensures the interconnection between the levels of a single public authority. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions. In their wide diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion lies our wealth. Valentina Ivanovna also mentioned this just now. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans, development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus. Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work directly depends on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative power. But they are realized, embodied in life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now. It is necessary to more actively, so to speak, more closely involve the regions in the development of new decisions on the national agenda. And control over their implementation must, of course, be established. Just like representatives of public non-profit organizations, veteran and youth structures, business circles, and local expert platforms of citizens' associations. They should have more opportunities within existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals. By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the future of the country. I know that the Federation Council regularly holds Days of the Regions of Russia, and off-site events are practiced. I ask you to continue to increase the involvement of the regions in this common joint work. All subjects of the federation have their own growth points, strong sides. Undoubtedly, they need to be seen and supported. And this is our and your, in this case, sacred duty. Each of you, senators of Russia, is a politician and legislator, but at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions and must not just know thoroughly, but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda, out of the field of view of ministries and departments, executive authorities. After all, your authority and the trust of the people, the knowledge of the senator of their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must, undoubtedly, be confirmed day after day with every word, deed, real, weighty results of service to the country and the people. And in this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible posts in federal government bodies, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies. I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions, now work here, and some from the upper house move to the government or head the regions of the Russian Federation. This is a very good practice, a real personnel school. In total, over these 25 years, almost 800 people have gained experience working in the chamber of regions. The composition of the Federation Council, like other government bodies, will undoubtedly continue to be updated in accordance with the law, gradually, regularly, taking into account the results of the unified days of voting. At the same time, I am confident that the high quality and continuity of the legislative process, the professional traditions of the Federation Council, will undoubtedly be ensured.
Dear colleagues, I want to thank you for your work, for your constant attention to our heroes, participants in combat operations, their families, to the issues of the key demographic agenda for us, to the problems of legal and socio-economic integration of our historical regions. And, of course, for participating in the work on the federal budget, which reflects all these, yes, and all other main priorities. In general, for supporting our course for the strengthening and development of Russia. Such agreement, commitment to national interests are extremely important for the parliament, for both its chambers, for the country. And in a period of historical trials, global changes, they are simply priceless. I thank you for this. Thank you. And once again, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year. Thank you very much.
Ivanovna. Dear senators of the Russian Federation, colleagues, friends. First of all, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year holidays. The Parliament of Russia, both its chambers, are completing the autumn session with good results. There was indeed a lot of work. A number of important legislative decisions were adopted in the interests of the country and our citizens. Strengthening national security, development of the economy, the social sphere. And for the senators, the outgoing 2025 was especially significant also because, Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this, it marked 25 years since the first deep reform of the Federation Council, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries. Let me remind you what exactly this reform consisted of. The 1993 Constitution, well, of course, you all know about this, but let's remind ourselves and the citizens. The 1993 Constitution prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then the Federation Council included, personally, by position, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies. And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country, for the preservation of our state unity in that difficult and, frankly, transitional in every sense of the word period. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such a so-called dual role, both leading a region and adopting federal laws, created a duality of status. Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are, after all, different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. Well, we understand, yes, when a person adopts a law and must execute it himself, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it, solved it, because we felt then that it still affected the entire system of power. Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council, so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper house on a permanent, professional basis, and they could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection of the unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would sound convincingly and be taken into account. Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern appearance of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The amount of substantive work on draft laws increased. As a result, as I have already said, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities for solving local problems, improving the quality of life of people, revealing their economic potential, competitive advantages, from which the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country is formed.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted further. Thus, in 2012, elements of election were introduced. Candidates for the post of governor had to announce in advance, even at the stage of the election campaign, their trio of candidates for senatorial seats. And from the legislative assembly, such a representative could only become a deputy of the regional parliament elected in the course of democratic procedures. Legitimacy. Thus, the representativeness of the upper house also increased. In addition, we established job requirements for members of the Federation Council, including the need for a personal, direct connection with a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded after the introduction of substantive, systemic amendments to the Constitution in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took the most active part in their development. The very term 'senator', previously unofficial, was enshrined in law. It was then that new powers appeared for your colleagues in the State Duma, and for the Federation Council itself in terms of parliamentary control, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system, in the prosecution, conducting consultations when appointing members of the government in the areas of foreign policy, justice, and the security bloc. I know that the Federation Council approaches these issues professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility. To be honest, of course, no one expected anything else. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state approach and count on the continuation, as before, of close joint work.
I repeat, the name of the position, the options for forming the Federation Council have changed over the years. And more than once, as I just said, but its legal and political nature, purpose, one might say, mission, remain unchanged. This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. This is participation in making significant state decisions, strengthening the country's international positions through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council, in fact, ensures the interconnection between the levels of a single public authority. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions. In their wide diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion lies our wealth. Valentina Ivanovna also mentioned this just now. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans, development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus. Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work directly depends on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative power, but they are realized, embodied in life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now. It is necessary to more actively, so to speak, more closely involve the regions in the development of new decisions on the national agenda. And control over their implementation must, of course, be established. Just like representatives of public non-profit organizations, veteran and youth structures, business circles, and local expert platforms of citizens' associations. They should have more opportunities within existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals. By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the future of the country. I know that the Federation Council regularly holds Days of the Regions of Russia, and off-site events are practiced. I ask you to continue to increase the involvement of the regions in this common joint work. All subjects of the federation have their own growth points, strong sides. Undoubtedly, they need to be seen and supported. And this is our and your, in this case, sacred duty. Each of you, senators of Russia, is a politician and legislator, but at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions and must not just know thoroughly, but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda, out of the field of view of ministries and departments, executive authorities. After all, your authority and the trust of the people, the knowledge of the senator of their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must, undoubtedly, be confirmed day after day with every word, deed, real, weighty results of service to the country and the people. And in this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible posts in federal government bodies, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies. I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions, now work here, and some from the upper house move to the government or head the regions of the Russian Federation. This is a very good practice, a real personnel school. In total, over these 25 years, almost 800 people have gained experience working in the chamber of regions. The composition of the Federation Council, like other government bodies, will undoubtedly continue to be updated in accordance with the law, gradually, regularly, taking into account the results of the unified days of voting. At the same time, I am confident that the high quality and continuity of the legislative process, the professional traditions of the Federation Council, will undoubtedly be ensured.
Dear colleagues, I want to thank you for your work, for your constant attention to our heroes, participants in combat operations, their families, to the issues of the key demographic agenda for us, to the problems of legal and socio-economic integration of our historical regions. And, of course, for participating in the work on the federal budget, which reflects all these, yes, and all other main priorities. In general, for supporting our course for the strengthening and development of Russia. Such agreement, commitment to national interests are extremely important for the parliament, for both its chambers, for the country. And in a period of historical trials, global changes, they are simply priceless. I thank you for this. Thank you. And once again, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year. Thank you very much.
Ivanovna. Dear senators of the Russian Federation, colleagues, friends. First of all, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year holidays. The Parliament of Russia, both its chambers, are completing the autumn session with good results. There was indeed a lot of work. A number of important legislative decisions were adopted in the interests of the country and our citizens. Strengthening national security, development of the economy, the social sphere. And for the senators, the outgoing 2025 was especially significant also because, Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this, it marked 25 years since the first deep reform of the Federation Council, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries. Let me remind you what exactly this reform consisted of. The 1993 Constitution, well, of course, you all know about this, but let's remind ourselves and the citizens. The 1993 Constitution prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then the Federation Council included, personally, by position, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies. And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country, for the preservation of our state unity in that difficult and, frankly, transitional in every sense of the word period. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such a so-called dual role, both leading a region and adopting federal laws, created a duality of status. Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are, after all, different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. Well, we understand, yes, when a person adopts a law and must execute it himself, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it, solved it, because we felt then that it still affected the entire system of power. Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council, so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper house on a permanent, professional basis, and they could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection of the unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would sound convincingly and be taken into account. Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern appearance of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The amount of substantive work on draft laws increased. As a result, as I have already said, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities for solving local problems, improving the quality of life of people, revealing their economic potential, competitive advantages, from which the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country is formed.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted further. Thus, in 2012, elements of election were introduced. Candidates for the post of governor had to announce in advance, even at the stage of the election campaign, their trio of candidates for senatorial seats. And from the legislative assembly, such a representative could only become a deputy of the regional parliament elected in the course of democratic procedures. Legitimacy. Thus, the representativeness of the upper house also increased. In addition, we established job requirements for members of the Federation Council, including the need for a personal, direct connection with a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded after the introduction of substantive, systemic amendments to the Constitution in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took the most active part in their development. The very term 'senator', previously unofficial, was enshrined in law. It was then that new powers appeared for your colleagues in the State Duma, and for the Federation Council itself in terms of parliamentary control, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system, in the prosecution, conducting consultations when appointing members of the government in the areas of foreign policy, justice, and the security bloc. I know that the Federation Council approaches these issues professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility. To be honest, of course, no one expected anything else. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state approach and count on the continuation, as before, of close joint work.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted further. In 2012, elements of electability were introduced. Candidates for governor had to publicly present their trio of senatorial candidates during the election campaign. A representative from the legislative assembly could only be elected through democratic procedures by the deputies of the regional parliament. This increased the legitimacy and representativeness of the upper house. We also established job requirements for Federation Council members, including a direct personal connection to a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded following the substantive constitutional amendments in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took an active part in their development. The term 'senator' was officially enshrined in law. New powers were granted to your colleagues in the State Duma and to the Federation Council itself regarding parliamentary oversight, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system and prosecutor's office, and consultations on the appointment of government members in foreign policy, justice, and security sectors. I know the Federation Council approaches these matters professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility. I must admit, no one expected anything less. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state-minded approach, and I count on continuing our close joint work as before.
I repeat, the title of the position and the methods of forming the Federation Council have changed over the years, more than once, as I just said. But its legal and political nature, its purpose, one might say, its mission, remains unchanged. This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. It is participation in making significant state decisions and strengthening the country's international position through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council effectively ensures the connection between the levels of unified public power. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions. Our wealth lies in their great diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion. Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans and development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus. Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work depends directly on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative powers. But they are implemented and brought to life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now: we need to more actively, more closely involve the regions in developing new decisions on the national agenda. And, of course, we need to establish control over their implementation. Representatives of public non-profit organizations, veterans' and youth groups, business circles, and local expert platforms and citizen associations should also be involved. They must have more opportunities through existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals. By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the country's future.
I know that the Federation Council regularly holds 'Days of the Regions of Russia' and conducts field events. I ask you to continue increasing the involvement of the regions in this common joint work. All subjects of the federation have their own growth points and strengths. They must certainly be seen and supported. This is our and your, in this case, sacred duty. Each of you, the senators of Russia, is a politician and legislator, but at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions. You must not only know them thoroughly but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda or out of the sight of ministries, departments, and executive authorities. Your authority and the people's trust, the knowledge of a senator about their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must be confirmed day by day with every word, action, and real, significant results of serving the country and the people. In this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible posts in federal executive authorities, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies. I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions and now work here, while some from the upper house move to the government or head regions of the Russian Federation. This is a very good practice, a real personnel school. In total, over these 25 years, almost 800 people have gained experience working in the chamber of regions. The composition of the Federation Council, like other government bodies, will undoubtedly continue to be renewed in accordance with the law, gradually, regularly, taking into account the results of the unified voting days. At the same time, I am confident that the high quality and continuity of the legislative process and professional traditions of the Federation Council will undoubtedly be ensured.
Dear colleagues, I want to thank you for your work, for your constant attention to our heroes, participants in combat operations, and their families, to the key demographic agenda for us, to the problems of legal and socio-economic integration of our historical regions. And, of course, for participating in the work on the federal budget, which reflects all these and all other main priorities. Overall, for supporting our course for the strengthening and development of Russia. Such consensus and commitment to national interests are extremely important for the parliament, for both its chambers, and for the country. And in a period of historical trials and global changes, they are simply invaluable. I thank you for this.
Thank you. And once again, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year. Thank you very much. Valentina Ivanovna. Dear senators of the Russian Federation, colleagues, friends. First of all, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year holidays.
The Russian parliament, both its chambers, are completing the autumn session with good results. There was indeed a lot of work. A number of important legislative decisions were adopted in the interests of the country and our citizens. Strengthening national security, developing the economy and the social sphere. And for the senators, the outgoing 2025 was especially significant also because, as Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned, it marked 25 years since the first deep reform of the Federation Council, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the XX and XXI centuries. Let me remind you what that reform consisted of. The 1993 Constitution prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies entered the Federation Council personally, by virtue of their positions. And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country and for preserving our state unity during that difficult and, frankly, transitional period in every sense. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such 'dual employment'—both leading a region and adopting federal laws—created a duality of status. Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. We understand, when a person adopts a law and must execute it themselves, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it and solved it because we felt then that it was affecting the entire system of power. Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper chamber on a permanent, professional basis. They could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection and unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would be convincingly heard and taken into account. Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern appearance of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The number of substantive reviews of draft laws increased. As a result, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities emerged for solving local problems, improving people's quality of life, and unlocking their economic potential and competitive advantages, which together form the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted further. In 2012, elements of electability were introduced. Candidates for governor had to publicly present their trio of senatorial candidates during the election campaign. A representative from the legislative assembly could only be elected through democratic procedures by the deputies of the regional parliament. This increased the legitimacy and representativeness of the upper house. We also established job requirements for Federation Council members, including a direct personal connection to a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded following the substantive constitutional amendments in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took an active part in their development. The term 'senator' was officially enshrined in law. New powers were granted to your colleagues in the State Duma and to the Federation Council itself regarding parliamentary oversight, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system and prosecutor's office, and consultations on the appointment of government members in foreign policy, justice, and security sectors. I know the Federation Council approaches these matters professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility. I must admit, no one expected anything less. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state-minded approach, and I count on continuing our close joint work as before.
I repeat, the title of the position and the methods of forming the Federation Council have changed over the years, more than once, as I just said. But its legal and political nature, its purpose, one might say, its mission, remains unchanged. This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. It is participation in making significant state decisions and strengthening the country's international position through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council effectively ensures the connection between the levels of unified public power. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions. Our wealth lies in their great diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion. Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans and development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus. Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work depends directly on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative powers. But they are implemented and brought to life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now: we need to more actively, more closely involve the regions in developing new decisions on the national agenda. And, of course, we need to establish control over their implementation. Representatives of public non-profit organizations, veterans' and youth groups, business circles, and local expert platforms and citizen associations should also be involved. They must have more opportunities through existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals. By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the country's future.
I know that the Federation Council regularly holds 'Days of the Regions of Russia' and conducts field events. I ask you to continue increasing the involvement of the regions in this common joint work. All subjects of the federation have their own growth points and strengths. They must certainly be seen and supported. This is our and your, in this case, sacred duty. Each of you, the senators of Russia, is a politician and legislator, but at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions. You must not only know them thoroughly but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda or out of the sight of ministries, departments, and executive authorities. Your authority and the people's trust, the knowledge of a senator about their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must be confirmed day by day with every word, action, and real, significant results of serving the country and the people. In this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible posts in federal executive authorities, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies. I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions and now work here, while some from the upper house move to the government or head regions of the Russian Federation. This is a very good practice, a real personnel school. In total, over these 25 years, almost 800 people have gained experience working in the chamber of regions. The composition of the Federation Council, like other government bodies, will undoubtedly continue to be renewed in accordance with the law, gradually, regularly, taking into account the results of the unified voting days. At the same time, I am confident that the high quality and continuity of the legislative process and professional traditions of the Federation Council will undoubtedly be ensured.
Dear colleagues, I want to thank you for your work, for your constant attention to our heroes, participants in combat operations, and their families, to the key demographic agenda for us, to the problems of legal and socio-economic integration of our historical regions. And, of course, for participating in the work on the federal budget, which reflects all these and all other main priorities. Overall, for supporting our course for the strengthening and development of Russia. Such consensus and commitment to national interests are extremely important for the parliament, for both its chambers, and for the country. And in a period of historical trials and global changes, they are simply invaluable. I thank you for this.
Thank you. And once again, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year. Thank you very much. Valentina Ivanovna. Dear senators of the Russian Federation, colleagues, friends. First of all, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year holidays.
The Russian parliament, both its chambers, are completing the autumn session with good results. There was indeed a lot of work. A number of important legislative decisions were adopted in the interests of the country and our citizens. Strengthening national security, developing the economy and the social sphere. And for the senators, the outgoing 2025 was especially significant also because, as Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned, it marked 25 years since the first deep reform of the Federation Council, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the XX and XXI centuries. Let me remind you what that reform consisted of. The 1993 Constitution prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies entered the Federation Council personally, by virtue of their positions. And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country and for preserving our state unity during that difficult and, frankly, transitional period in every sense. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such 'dual employment'—both leading a region and adopting federal laws—created a duality of status. Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. We understand, when a person adopts a law and must execute it themselves, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it and solved it because we felt then that it was affecting the entire system of power. Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper chamber on a permanent, professional basis. They could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection and unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would be convincingly heard and taken into account. Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern appearance of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The number of substantive reviews of draft laws increased. As a result, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities emerged for solving local problems, improving people's quality of life, and unlocking their economic potential and competitive advantages, which together form the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted further. In 2012, elements of electability were introduced. Candidates for governor had to publicly present their trio of senatorial candidates during the election campaign. A representative from the legislative assembly could only be elected through democratic procedures by the deputies of the regional parliament. This increased the legitimacy and representativeness of the upper house. We also established job requirements for Federation Council members, including a direct personal connection to a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded following the substantive constitutional amendments in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took an active part in their development. The term 'senator' was officially enshrined in law. New powers were granted to your colleagues in the State Duma and to the Federation Council itself regarding parliamentary oversight, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system and prosecutor's office, and consultations on the appointment of government members in foreign policy, justice, and security sectors. I know the Federation Council approaches these matters professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility. I must admit, no one expected anything less. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state-minded approach, and I count on continuing our close joint work as before.
I repeat, the title of the position and the methods of forming the Federation Council have changed over the years, more than once, as I just said. But its legal and political nature, its purpose, one might say, its mission, remains unchanged. This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. It is participation in making significant state decisions and strengthening the country's international position through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council effectively ensures the connection between the levels of unified public power. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions. Our wealth lies in their great diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion. Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans and development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus. Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work depends directly on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative powers. But they are implemented and brought to life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now: we need to more actively, more closely involve the regions in developing new decisions on the national agenda. And, of course, we need to establish control over their implementation. Representatives of public non-profit organizations, veterans' and youth groups, business circles, and local expert platforms and citizen associations should also be involved. They must have more opportunities through existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals. By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the country's future.
I know that the Federation Council regularly holds 'Days of the Regions of Russia' and conducts field events. I ask you to continue increasing the involvement of the regions in this common joint work. All subjects of the federation have their own growth points and strengths. They must certainly be seen and supported. This is our and your, in this case, sacred duty. Each of you, the senators of Russia, is a politician and legislator, but at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions. You must not only know them thoroughly but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda or out of the sight of ministries, departments, and executive authorities. Your authority and the people's trust, the knowledge of a senator about their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must be confirmed day by day with every word, action, and real, significant results of serving the country and the people. In this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible posts in federal executive authorities, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies. I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions and now work here, while some from the upper house move to the government or head regions of the Russian Federation. This is a very good practice, a real personnel school. In total, over these 25 years, almost 800 people have gained experience working in the chamber of regions. The composition of the Federation Council, like other government bodies, will undoubtedly continue to be renewed in accordance with the law, gradually, regularly, taking into account the results of the unified voting days. At the same time, I am confident that the high quality and continuity of the legislative process and professional traditions of the Federation Council will undoubtedly be ensured.
Dear colleagues, I want to thank you for your work, for your constant attention to our heroes, participants in combat operations, and their families, to the key demographic agenda for us, to the problems of legal and socio-economic integration of our historical regions. And, of course, for participating in the work on the federal budget, which reflects all these and all other main priorities. Overall, for supporting our course for the strengthening and development of Russia. Such consensus and commitment to national interests are extremely important for the parliament, for both its chambers, and for the country. And in a period of historical trials and global changes, they are simply invaluable. I thank you for this.
Thank you. And once again, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year. Thank you very much. Valentina Ivanovna. Dear senators of the Russian Federation, colleagues, friends. First of all, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year holidays.
The Russian parliament, both its chambers, are completing the autumn session with good results. There was indeed a lot of work. A number of important legislative decisions were adopted in the interests of the country and our citizens. Strengthening national security, developing the economy and the social sphere. And for the senators, the outgoing 2025 was especially significant also because, as Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned, it marked 25 years since the first deep reform of the Federation Council, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the XX and XXI centuries. Let me remind you what that reform consisted of. The 1993 Constitution prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies entered the Federation Council personally, by virtue of their positions. And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country and for preserving our state unity during that difficult and, frankly, transitional period in every sense. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such 'dual employment'—both leading a region and adopting federal laws—created a duality of status. Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. We understand, when a person adopts a law and must execute it themselves, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it and solved it because we felt then that it was affecting the entire system of power. Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper chamber on a permanent, professional basis. They could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection and unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would be convincingly heard and taken into account. Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern appearance of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The number of substantive reviews of draft laws increased. As a result, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities emerged for solving local problems, improving people's quality of life, and unlocking their economic potential and competitive advantages, which together form the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted further. In 2012, elements of electability were introduced. Candidates for governor had to publicly present their trio of senatorial candidates during the election campaign. A representative from the legislative assembly could only be elected through democratic procedures by the deputies of the regional parliament. This increased the legitimacy and representativeness of the upper house. We also established job requirements for Federation Council members, including a direct personal connection to a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded following the substantive constitutional amendments in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took an active part in their development. The term 'senator' was officially enshrined in law. New powers were granted to your colleagues in the State Duma and to the Federation Council itself regarding parliamentary oversight, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system and prosecutor's office, and consultations on the appointment of government members in foreign policy, justice, and security sectors. I know the Federation Council approaches these matters professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility. I must admit, no one expected anything less. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state-minded approach, and I count on continuing our close joint work as before.
I repeat, the title of the position and the methods of forming the Federation Council have changed over the years, more than once, as I just said. But its legal and political nature, its purpose, one might say, its mission, remains unchanged. This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. It is participation in making significant state decisions and strengthening the country's international position through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council effectively ensures the connection between the levels of unified public power. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions. Our wealth lies in their great diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion. Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans and development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus. Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work depends directly on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative powers. But they are implemented and brought to life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now: we need to more actively, more closely involve the regions in developing new decisions on the national agenda. And, of course, we need to establish control over their implementation. Representatives of public non-profit organizations, veterans' and youth groups, business circles, and local expert platforms and citizen associations should also be involved. They must have more opportunities through existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals. By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the country's future.
I know that the Federation Council regularly holds 'Days of the Regions of Russia' and conducts field events. I ask you to continue increasing the involvement of the regions in this common joint work. All subjects of the federation have their own growth points and strengths. They must certainly be seen and supported. This is our and your, in this case, sacred duty. Each of you, the senators of Russia, is a politician and legislator, but at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions. You must not only know them thoroughly but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda or out of the sight of ministries, departments, and executive authorities. Your authority and the people's trust, the knowledge of a senator about their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must be confirmed day by day with every word, action, and real, significant results of serving the country and the people. In this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible posts in federal executive authorities, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies. I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions and now work here, while some from the upper house move to the government or head regions of the Russian Federation. This is a very good practice, a real personnel school. In total, over these 25 years, almost 800 people have gained experience working in the chamber of regions. The composition of the Federation Council, like other government bodies, will undoubtedly continue to be renewed in accordance with the law, gradually, regularly, taking into account the results of the unified voting days. At the same time, I am confident that the high quality and continuity of the legislative process and professional traditions of the Federation Council will undoubtedly be ensured.
Dear colleagues, I want to thank you for your work, for your constant attention to our heroes, participants in combat operations, and their families, to the key demographic agenda for us, to the problems of legal and socio-economic integration of our historical regions. And, of course, for participating in the work on the federal budget, which reflects all these and all other main priorities. Overall, for supporting our course for the strengthening and development of Russia. Such consensus and commitment to national interests are extremely important for the parliament, for both its chambers, and for the country. And in a period of historical trials and global changes, they are simply invaluable. I thank you for this.
Thank you. And once again, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year. Thank you very much. Valentina Ivanovna. Dear senators of the Russian Federation, colleagues, friends. First of all, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year holidays.
The Russian parliament, both its chambers, are completing the autumn session with good results. There was indeed a lot of work. A number of important legislative decisions were adopted in the interests of the country and our citizens. Strengthening national security, developing the economy and the social sphere. And for the senators, the outgoing 2025 was especially significant also because, as Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned, it marked 25 years since the first deep reform of the Federation Council, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the XX and XXI centuries. Let me remind you what that reform consisted of. The 1993 Constitution prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies entered the Federation Council personally, by virtue of their positions. And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country and for preserving our state unity during that difficult and, frankly, transitional period in every sense. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such 'dual employment'—both leading a region and adopting federal laws—created a duality of status. Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. We understand, when a person adopts a law and must execute it themselves, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it and solved it because we felt then that it was affecting the entire system of power. Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper chamber on a permanent, professional basis. They could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection and unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would be convincingly heard and taken into account. Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern appearance of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The number of substantive reviews of draft laws increased. As a result, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities emerged for solving local problems, improving people's quality of life, and unlocking their economic potential and competitive advantages, which together form the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted further. In 2012, elements of electability were introduced. Candidates for governor had to publicly present their trio of senatorial candidates during the election campaign. A representative from the legislative assembly could only be elected through democratic procedures by the deputies of the regional parliament. This increased the legitimacy and representativeness of the upper house. We also established job requirements for Federation Council members, including a direct personal connection to a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded following the substantive constitutional amendments in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took an active part in their development. The term 'senator' was officially enshrined in law. New powers were granted to your colleagues in the State Duma and to the Federation Council itself regarding parliamentary oversight, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system and prosecutor's office, and consultations on the appointment of government members in foreign policy, justice, and security sectors. I know the Federation Council approaches these matters professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility. I must admit, no one expected anything less. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state-minded approach, and I count on continuing our close joint work as before.
I repeat, the title of the position and the methods of forming the Federation Council have changed over the years, more than once, as I just said. But its legal and political nature, its purpose, one might say, its mission, remains unchanged. This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. It is participation in making significant state decisions and strengthening the country's international position through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council effectively ensures the connection between the levels of unified public power. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions. Our wealth lies in their great diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion. Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans and development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus.
from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus. Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work depends directly on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative authorities, but they are implemented and brought to life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now. We need to more actively, as they say, more closely involve the regions in developing new decisions on the national agenda. And, of course, we need to establish control over their implementation. Just like representatives of public non-profit organizations, veterans' and youth structures, business circles, and local expert platforms and associations of citizens. They should have more opportunities and existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals.
By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the future of the country.
I know that the Federation Council regularly holds 'Days of the Regions of Russia' and conducts field events. I ask you to continue increasing the involvement of the regions in this common, joint work.
All subjects of the federation have their own growth points and strengths. Undoubtedly, we need to see and support them. And this is our and your, in this case, sacred duty.
Each of you, senators of Russia, is a politician and lawmaker. But at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions and must not only know them thoroughly but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda, out of the field of view of ministries, departments, and executive authorities.
After all, your authority and the trust of the people, the knowledge of the senator of their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must be confirmed day after day with every word, deed, and real, significant results of serving the country and the people.
And in this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. [Applause] And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible positions in federal executive authorities, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies.
I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions, now work here, and some from the upper house move to the government or head the regions of the Russian Federation. This is a very good practice, a real personnel school. In total, over these 25 years, almost 800 people have gained experience working in the chamber of regions.
The composition of the Federation Council, like other government bodies, will undoubtedly continue to be renewed in accordance with the law, gradually, regularly, taking into account the results of the unified voting days. At the same time, I am confident that the high quality and continuity of the legislative process and professional traditions of the Federation Council will undoubtedly be ensured.
Dear colleagues, I want to thank you for your work, for your constant attention to our heroes, participants in combat operations, their families, to the key demographic agenda for us, to the problems of legal and socio-economic integration of our historical regions. And, of course, for participating in the work on the federal budget, which reflects all these and all other main priorities.
In general, for supporting our course for the strengthening and development of Russia. Such agreement and commitment to national interests are extremely important for the parliament, for both its chambers, for the country. And in a period of historical trials and global changes, they are simply priceless.
I thank you for this. [Applause] Thank you. And once again, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year. Thank you very much, Valentina Ivanovna.
Dear senators of the Russian Federation, colleagues, friends. First of all, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year holidays. [Applause] The Parliament of Russia, both its chambers, are completing the autumn session with good results. There was indeed a lot of work. A number of important legislative decisions were adopted in the interests of the country and our citizens. Strengthening national security, developing the economy, and the social sphere.
And for the senators, the outgoing 2025 was especially significant also because, as Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned, it marked 25 years since the first deep reform of the Federation Council, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the XX and XXI centuries. Let me remind you what that reform entailed.
The Constitution of 1993, well, of course, you all know about this, but let's remind ourselves and the citizens. The Constitution of 1993 prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then, the Federation Council included, personally, by virtue of their positions, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies.
And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country, for the preservation of our state unity in that difficult and, frankly, transitional period in every sense of the word. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such so-called dual employment—both managing a region and passing federal laws—created a duality of status.
Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. Well, we understand, when a person adopts a law and must execute it himself, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it, solved it, because we felt then that it still affected the entire system of power.
Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council, so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper house on a permanent, professional basis, and they could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection and unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would be convincingly heard and taken into account.
Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern look of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The amount of substantive consideration of draft laws increased. As a result, as I already said, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities for solving problems on the ground, for improving the quality of life of people, and revealing their economic potential and competitive advantages, which together form the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted later. Thus, in 2012, elements of election were introduced. Candidates for governor had to announce in advance, even at the stage of the election campaign, their trio of candidates for senatorial seats. And from the Legislative Assembly, such a representative could only become a person elected in the course of democratic procedures by the deputies of the regional parliament. Legitimacy. Thus, the representativeness of the upper house also increased.
In addition, we established job requirements for members of the Federation Council, including the need for a personal, direct connection with a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded after the adoption of substantive, systemic amendments to the constitution in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took the most active part in their development. The very term 'senator' was not previously officially enshrined in law.
It was then that new powers appeared for your colleagues in the State Duma and for the Federation Council itself in terms of parliamentary oversight, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system, in the prosecutor's office, conducting consultations when appointing government members in the areas of foreign policy, justice, and the security bloc. I know that the Federation Council approaches these issues professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility.
To be honest, of course, no one expected anything else. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state-minded approach and count on the continuation, as before, of close joint work.
I repeat, the name of the position, the options for forming the Federation Council have changed over the years. And not once, as I just said, but its legal and political nature, purpose, one might say, mission, is unchanging.
This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. This is participation in making significant state decisions, strengthening the country's international positions through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council, in fact, ensures the interconnection between the levels of a single public authority. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions.
In their wide diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion lies our wealth. Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this as well. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans and development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus.
Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work depends directly on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative authorities, but they are implemented and brought to life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now. We need to more actively, as they say, more closely involve the regions in developing new decisions on the national agenda. And, of course, we need to establish control over their implementation. Just like representatives of public non-profit organizations, veterans' and youth structures, business circles, and local expert platforms and associations of citizens. They should have more opportunities and existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals.
By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the future of the country.
I know that the Federation Council regularly holds 'Days of the Regions of Russia' and conducts field events. I ask you to continue increasing the involvement of the regions in this common, joint work.
All subjects of the federation have their own growth points and strengths. Undoubtedly, we need to see and support them. And this is our and your, in this case, sacred duty.
Each of you, senators of Russia, is a politician and lawmaker. But at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions and must not only know them thoroughly but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda, out of the field of view of ministries, departments, and executive authorities.
After all, your authority and the trust of the people, the knowledge of the senator of their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must be confirmed day after day with every word, deed, and real, significant results of serving the country and the people.
And in this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. [Applause] And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible positions in federal executive authorities, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies.
I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions, now work here, and some from the upper house move to the government or head the regions of the Russian Federation. This is a very good practice, a real personnel school. In total, over these 25 years, almost 800 people have gained experience working in the chamber of regions.
The composition of the Federation Council, like other government bodies, will undoubtedly continue to be renewed in accordance with the law, gradually, regularly, taking into account the results of the unified voting days. At the same time, I am confident that the high quality and continuity of the legislative process and professional traditions of the Federation Council will undoubtedly be ensured.
Dear colleagues, I want to thank you for your work, for your constant attention to our heroes, participants in combat operations, their families, to the key demographic agenda for us, to the problems of legal and socio-economic integration of our historical regions. And, of course, for participating in the work on the federal budget, which reflects all these and all other main priorities.
In general, for supporting our course for the strengthening and development of Russia. Such agreement and commitment to national interests are extremely important for the parliament, for both its chambers, for the country. And in a period of historical trials and global changes, they are simply priceless.
I thank you for this. [Applause] Thank you. And once again, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year. Thank you very much. [Applause] Valentina Ivanovna. Dear senators of the Russian Federation, colleagues, friends. First of all, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year holidays. [Applause]
The Parliament of Russia, both its chambers, are completing the autumn session with good results. There was indeed a lot of work. A number of important legislative decisions were adopted in the interests of the country and our citizens. Strengthening national security, developing the economy, and the social sphere. And for the senators, the outgoing 2025 was especially significant also because, as Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned, it marked 25 years since the first deep reform of the Federation Council, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the XX and XXI centuries.
Let me remind you what that reform entailed. The Constitution of 1993, well, of course, you all know about this, but let's remind ourselves and the citizens. The Constitution of 1993 prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then, the Federation Council included, personally, by virtue of their positions, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies.
And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country, for the preservation of our state unity in that difficult and, frankly, transitional period in every sense of the word. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such so-called dual employment—both managing a region and passing federal laws—created a duality of status.
Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. Well, we understand, when a person adopts laws and must execute them himself, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it, solved it, because we felt then that it still affected the entire system of power.
Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council, so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper house on a permanent, professional basis, and they could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection and unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would be convincingly heard and taken into account.
Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern look of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The amount of substantive consideration of draft laws increased. As a result, as I already said, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities for solving problems on the ground, for improving the quality of life of people, and revealing their economic potential and competitive advantages, which together form the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted later. Thus, in 2012, elements of election were introduced. Candidates for governor had to announce in advance, even at the stage of the election campaign, their trio of candidates for senatorial seats. And from the Legislative Assembly, such a representative could only become a person elected in the course of democratic procedures by the deputies of the regional parliament. Legitimacy. Thus, the representativeness of the upper house also increased.
In addition, we established job requirements for members of the Federation Council, including the need for a personal, direct connection with a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded after the adoption of substantive, systemic amendments to the constitution in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took the most active part in their development. The very term 'senator' was not previously officially enshrined in law.
It was then that new powers appeared for your colleagues in the State Duma and for the Federation Council itself in terms of parliamentary oversight, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system, in the prosecutor's office, conducting consultations when appointing government members in the areas of foreign policy, justice, and the security bloc. I know that the Federation Council approaches these issues professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility.
To be honest, of course, no one expected anything else. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state-minded approach and count on the continuation, as before, of close joint work.
I repeat, the name of the position, the options for forming the Federation Council have changed over the years. And not once, as I just said, but its legal and political nature, purpose, one might say, mission, is unchanging.
This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. This is participation in making significant state decisions, strengthening the country's international positions through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council, in fact, ensures the interconnection between the levels of a single public authority. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions.
In their wide diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion lies our wealth. Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this as well. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans and development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus.
Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work depends directly on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative authorities, but they are implemented and brought to life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now. We need to more actively, as they say, more closely involve the regions in developing new decisions on the national agenda. And, of course, we need to establish control over their implementation. Just like representatives of public non-profit organizations, veterans' and youth structures, business circles, and local expert platforms and associations of citizens. They should have more opportunities and existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals.
By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the future of the country.
I know that the Federation Council regularly holds 'Days of the Regions of Russia' and conducts field events. I ask you to continue increasing the involvement of the regions in this common, joint work.
All subjects of the federation have their own growth points and strengths. Undoubtedly, we need to see and support them. And this is our and your, in this case, sacred duty.
Each of you, senators of Russia, is a politician and lawmaker. But at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions and must not only know them thoroughly but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda, out of the field of view of ministries, departments, and executive authorities.
After all, your authority and the trust of the people, the knowledge of the senator of their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must be confirmed day after day with every word, deed, and real, significant results of serving the country and the people.
And in this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. [Applause] And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible positions in federal executive authorities, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies.
I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions, now work here, and some from the upper house move to the government or head the regions of the Russian Federation. This is a very good practice, a real personnel school. In total, over these 25 years, almost 800 people have gained experience working in the chamber of regions.
The composition of the Federation Council, like other government bodies, will undoubtedly continue to be renewed in accordance with the law, gradually, regularly, taking into account the results of the unified voting days. At the same time, I am confident that the high quality and continuity of the legislative process and professional traditions of the Federation Council will undoubtedly be ensured.
Dear colleagues, I want to thank you for your work, for your constant attention to our heroes, participants in combat operations, their families, to the key demographic agenda for us, to the problems of legal and socio-economic integration of our historical regions. And, of course, for participating in the work on the federal budget, which reflects all these and all other main priorities.
In general, for supporting our course for the strengthening and development of Russia. Such agreement and commitment to national interests are extremely important for the parliament, for both its chambers, for the country. And in a period of historical trials and global changes, they are simply priceless.
I thank you for this. [Applause] Thank you. And once again, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year. Thank you very much. [Applause] Valentina Ivanovna. Dear senators of the Russian Federation, colleagues, friends. First of all, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year holidays. [Applause]
The Parliament of Russia, both its chambers, are completing the autumn session with good results. There was indeed a lot of work. A number of important legislative decisions were adopted in the interests of the country and our citizens. Strengthening national security, developing the economy, and the social sphere. And for the senators, the outgoing 2025 was especially significant also because, as Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned, it marked 25 years since the first deep reform of the Federation Council, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the XX and XXI centuries.
Let me remind you what that reform entailed. The Constitution of 1993, well, of course, you all know about this, but let's remind ourselves and the citizens. The Constitution of 1993 prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then, the Federation Council included, personally, by virtue of their positions, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies.
And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country, for the preservation of our state unity in that difficult and, frankly, transitional period in every sense of the word. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such so-called dual employment—both managing a region and passing federal laws—created a duality of status.
Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. Well, we understand, when a person adopts laws and must execute them himself, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it, solved it, because we felt then that it still affected the entire system of power.
Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council, so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper house on a permanent, professional basis, and they could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection and unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would be convincingly heard and taken into account.
Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern look of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The amount of substantive consideration of draft laws increased. As a result, as I already said, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities for solving problems on the ground, for improving the quality of life of people, and revealing their economic potential and competitive advantages, which together form the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted later. Thus, in 2012, elements of election were introduced. Candidates for governor had to announce in advance, even at the stage of the election campaign, their trio of candidates for senatorial seats. And from the Legislative Assembly, such a representative could only become a person elected in the course of democratic procedures by the deputies of the regional parliament. Legitimacy. Thus, the representativeness of the upper house also increased.
In addition, we established job requirements for members of the Federation Council, including the need for a personal, direct connection with a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded after the adoption of substantive, systemic amendments to the constitution in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took the most active part in their development. The very term 'senator' was not previously officially enshrined in law.
It was then that new powers appeared for your colleagues in the State Duma and for the Federation Council itself in terms of parliamentary oversight, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system, in the prosecutor's office, conducting consultations when appointing government members in the areas of foreign policy, justice, and the security bloc. I know that the Federation Council approaches these issues professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility.
To be honest, of course, no one expected anything else. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state-minded approach and count on the continuation, as before, of close joint work.
I repeat, the name of the position, the options for forming the Federation Council have changed over the years. And not once, as I just said, but its legal and political nature, purpose, one might say, mission, is unchanging.
This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. This is participation in making significant state decisions, strengthening the country's international positions through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council, in fact, ensures the interconnection between the levels of a single public authority. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions.
In their wide diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion lies our wealth. Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this as well. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans and development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus.
Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work depends directly on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative authorities, but they are implemented and brought to life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now. We need to more actively, as they say, more closely involve the regions in developing new decisions on the national agenda. And, of course, we need to establish control over their implementation. Just like representatives of public non-profit organizations, veterans' and youth structures, business circles, and local expert platforms and associations of citizens. They should have more opportunities and existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals.
By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the future of the country.
I know that the Federation Council regularly holds 'Days of the Regions of Russia' and conducts field events. I ask you to continue increasing the involvement of the regions in this common, joint work.
All subjects of the federation have their own growth points and strengths. Undoubtedly, we need to see and support them. And this is our and your, in this case, sacred duty.
Each of you, senators of Russia, is a politician and lawmaker. But at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions and must not only know them thoroughly but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda, out of the field of view of ministries, departments, and executive authorities.
After all, your authority and the trust of the people, the knowledge of the senator of their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must be confirmed day after day with every word, deed, and real, significant results of serving the country and the people.
And in this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. [Applause] And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible positions in federal executive authorities, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies.
I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions, now work here, and some from the upper house move to the government or head the regions of the Russian Federation. This is a very good practice, a real personnel school. In total, over these 25 years, almost 800 people have gained experience working in the chamber of regions.
The composition of the Federation Council, like other government bodies, will undoubtedly continue to be renewed in accordance with the law, gradually, regularly, taking into account the results of the unified voting days. At the same time, I am confident that the high quality and continuity of the legislative process and professional traditions of the Federation Council will undoubtedly be ensured.
Dear colleagues, I want to thank you for your work, for your constant attention to our heroes, participants in combat operations, their families, to the key demographic agenda for us, to the problems of legal and socio-economic integration of our historical regions. And, of course, for participating in the work on the federal budget, which reflects all these and all other main priorities.
In general, for supporting our course for the strengthening and development of Russia. Such agreement and commitment to national interests are extremely important for the parliament, for both its chambers, for the country. And in a period of historical trials and global changes, they are simply priceless.
I thank you for this. [Applause] Thank you. And once again, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year. Thank you very much. [Applause] Valentina Ivanovna. Dear senators of the Russian Federation, colleagues, friends. First of all, I congratulate you on the upcoming New Year holidays. [Applause]
The Parliament of Russia, both its chambers, are completing the autumn session with good results. There was indeed a lot of work. A number of important legislative decisions were adopted in the interests of the country and our citizens. Strengthening national security, developing the economy, and the social sphere. And for the senators, the outgoing 2025 was especially significant also because, as Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned, it marked 25 years since the first deep reform of the Federation Council, one of the largest in the field of state building at the turn of the XX and XXI centuries.
Let me remind you what that reform entailed. The Constitution of 1993, well, of course, you all know about this, but let's remind ourselves and the citizens. The Constitution of 1993 prescribed the election of deputies of the first convocation of the Federation Council for a term of only 2 years. This was a transitional, temporary order. Then, the Federation Council included, personally, by virtue of their positions, the heads of regions and legislative assemblies.
And I want to note that they performed their parliamentary duties worthily, professionally, and with dedication. Many did a lot for the country, for the preservation of our state unity in that difficult and, frankly, transitional period in every sense of the word. However, the burden on them was considerable, not to mention that such so-called dual employment—both managing a region and passing federal laws—created a duality of status.
Where is the executive power, and where is the legislative? These are different branches. And it blurred responsibility for the execution of decisions. Well, we understand, when a person adopts a law and must execute it himself, there is a certain problem. But it seems to me that we coped with it, solved it, because we felt then that it still affected the entire system of power.
Therefore, in 2000, I proposed to qualitatively change the procedure for forming the Federation Council, so that each region had two parliamentarians working in the upper house on a permanent, professional basis, and they could concentrate specifically on lawmaking, on strengthening the close connection and unified logic of the federal and regional local development agenda, so that when making key national decisions, the position of the subjects of the Russian Federation would be convincingly heard and taken into account.
Then, a quarter of a century ago, the modern look of the Federation Council was essentially outlined. The schedule of its committees and commissions became more intensive. The amount of substantive consideration of draft laws increased. As a result, as I already said, all regions gained greater influence at the federal level, at least in the legislative process. New opportunities for solving problems on the ground, for improving the quality of life of people, and revealing their economic potential and competitive advantages, which together form the balanced, sustainable development of the entire country.
The mechanism for forming the Federation Council was refined and adjusted later. Thus, in 2012, elements of election were introduced. Candidates for governor had to announce in advance, even at the stage of the election campaign, their trio of candidates for senatorial seats. And from the Legislative Assembly, such a representative could only become a person elected in the course of democratic procedures by the deputies of the regional parliament. Legitimacy. Thus, the representativeness of the upper house also increased.
In addition, we established job requirements for members of the Federation Council, including the need for a personal, direct connection with a specific region. Personnel requirements were updated and expanded after the adoption of substantive, systemic amendments to the constitution in 2020. The entire parliamentary corps took the most active part in their development. The very term 'senator' was not previously officially enshrined in law.
It was then that new powers appeared for your colleagues in the State Duma and for the Federation Council itself in terms of parliamentary oversight, influence on personnel policy in the judicial system, in the prosecutor's office, conducting consultations when appointing government members in the areas of foreign policy, justice, and the security bloc. I know that the Federation Council approaches these issues professionally, carefully, and with the highest degree of responsibility.
To be honest, of course, no one expected anything else. I am confident in your professionalism and truly state-minded approach and count on the continuation, as before, of close joint work.
I repeat, the name of the position, the options for forming the Federation Council have changed over the years. And not once, as I just said, but its legal and political nature, purpose, one might say, mission, is unchanging.
This is primarily a key role in the legislative process. This is participation in making significant state decisions, strengthening the country's international positions through parliamentary diplomacy. And, of course, the Federation Council, in fact, ensures the interconnection between the levels of a single public authority. This is extremely important for a federation uniting 89 regions.
In their wide diversity, originality, and, I emphasize, cohesion lies our wealth. Valentina Ivanovna just mentioned this as well. The creative force of multinational Russia lies in this. Today, our strategic plans and development programs cover the entire country, from Kaliningrad to the Kuril Islands, from the Arctic latitudes to Crimea, Donbas, and the Caucasus.
Yes, we understand that the success of such large-scale work depends directly on the steps taken by the federal executive and legislative authorities, but they are implemented and brought to life precisely on the ground, in specific regions, cities, and towns.
I am addressing both you and the government now. We need to more actively, as they say, more closely involve the regions in developing new decisions on the national agenda. And, of course, we need to establish control over their implementation. Just like representatives of public non-profit organizations, veterans' and youth structures, business circles, and local expert platforms and associations of citizens. They should have more opportunities and existing mechanisms to contribute to achieving national development goals.
By expanding the space for such initiative, we will strengthen the institutions of federalism. They are vital for the future of the country.
I know that the Federation Council regularly holds 'Days of the Regions of Russia' and conducts field events. I ask you to continue increasing the involvement of the regions in this common, joint work.
All subjects of the federation have their own growth points and strengths. Undoubtedly, we need to see and support them. And this is our and your, in this case, sacred duty.
Each of you, senators of Russia, is a politician and lawmaker. But at the same time, you are all an integral part of the management teams of your regions and must not only know them thoroughly but always defend their interests, requests, and mandates of the people, so that they never fall out of the country's general agenda, out of the field of view of ministries, departments, and executive authorities.
After all, your authority and the trust of the people, the knowledge of the senator of their region, is a great honor and a great responsibility. It must be confirmed day after day with every word, deed, and real, significant results of serving the country and the people.
And in this regard, I will especially note that today in your ranks, as was just said, there are nine Heroes of Russia, participants of the special military operation. [Applause] And the Federation Council itself has become a real personnel school. Your colleagues, having passed through it, were later appointed to responsible positions in federal executive authorities, headed subjects of the federation and legislative assemblies.
I see in this hall people who used to be heads of regions, now work here, and some from the upper house move to the government or head the regions of the Russian Federation.
