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Putin begins nationwide question and answer session

More than 1.5 million questions were moderated by the call center in the past four days

MOSCOW, April 25 (Itar-Tass) - President Vladimir Putin has started his annual live nationwide question and answer session to address issues that are pressing for millions of Russians, related to housing problems, public utilities, welfare and economy. The first theme raised by the president was the implementation of presidential decrees after the election.

"I've set a higher target intentionally. On the whole, I'm satisfied. First of all, I'd draw attention to an increase in citizens' incomes. Also, there's been headway from the point of view of business," he said.

Among more than 1.5 million questions moderated by the call center in the past four days are problems of industry, construction and transport. There has been an increase in the number of questions about international issues. During the televised broadcast, Putin will address these issues and answer some of the questions asked live.

Presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Itar-Tass on Wednesday that the questions concerning abandoned children, orphans, and guardianship "will be in the foreground today."

More questions have been asked about international issues as Putin began to supervise them after taking office.

It will be Putin's 11th nationwide interview in the past 12 years, and his 7th interview in the capacity of president.

Peskov promised that Russians not only would be able to hear the head of state's opinions, but also talk and argue with him.

Vladimir Putin said such communication with Russian citizens "gives the authorities an opportunity to focus on vital problems."

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