MOSCOW, June 30. /TASS/. Russia went through the most acute period of the coronavirus pandemic much more smoothly than many other countries thanks in no small part to the lawmakers of the State Duma, or the lower parliament house, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday during his annual question-and-answer session.
"As is well-known by, practically, everyone, we went through the most acute part [of the pandemic] much more smoothly, not without losses, but much more smoothly than many other countries. And to a certain extent, it is thanks to the work of the State Duma lawmakers, representing all the factions," he said.
Putin noted that about a fourth of the State Duma lawmakers had had COVID-19 and four had died from it. "People came and did their duty. I think they deserve respect and the words of thanks to them should come not only from me but also from future voters who will come to polling stations this September," the president said.
Putin signed a decree on elections to the lower parliament house on June 17. It was officially published on the same day to give a go-ahead to the federal election campaign. Under Russian laws, political parties vying for State Duma seats are to hold congresses within 25 days after the launch of the campaign to nominate their candidates on party tickets and in one-seat constituencies. Amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the Russian Central Election Commission has decided to organize voting over three days, on September 17 through 19.