MOSCOW, December 19. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his hope that the forthcoming decision of the Bank of Russia on the key rate will be balanced and meet current requirements.

"I hope it will be balanced and will be in line with current needs," the head of state said at the Q&A session combined with his annual press conference.

The Bank of Russia will hold the meeting of its Board of Directors to set the key rate this Friday.