National unity and comprehensive development of modern Russia were two themes of the 2012 federal address read by Russian President Vladimir Putin in front of more than a thousand policy makers on Wednesday.

Photo: Xinhua

President Putin detailed the Russia’s development in the past 6 years and projected towards to 2020. Putin noted that the next period will be an important turning point for Russia and the world. In a 21 century witnessing a new division of economic, and military forces, Russia needs to maintain solidarity, cultural identity, and a powerful state development. Economically, Putin said the government needs to fulfill its promise to create 25 millions jobs by 2020 and improve Russia’s industries through cutting-edge technologies and scientific achievements. In the next 4-5 years, Russia will have to ensure food independence and become a top producer food and other staples. Russia will not adopt capitalism but will become a modern economy. Diplomatically, Putin said one of Russia’s top priorities is to enhance post-Soviet solitary, exemplified by the Customs Union and the Eurasian Economic Union led by Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan.