The key facts

  • The Russian Government has submitted a draft framework law on international development assistance
  • Assistance is envisaged in the form of money, goods, concessional loans, knowledge transfer and settlement of external debts
  • Among the goals are shaping an objective perception of Russia abroad and strengthening its position as a center of global development

Bill submitted to the State Duma

The Government of Russia has submitted to the State Duma a draft framework law on international development assistance. The document establishes the legal basis for providing aid to partner states on a gratuitous or preferential basis; it has been published on the official portal of the Duma legal database, as Gazeta.Ru reports.

Goals and objectives of assistance

Among the main goals of state policy in this area, the bill lists creating favorable external conditions for Russia's development, strengthening international peace, security and stability, supporting the socio-economic development of partner countries, and shaping a just world order. Separately, it names strengthening Russia's position as one of the influential centers of global development.

Forms of assistance

Among the tasks of international assistance, the bill lists fighting hunger and poverty, preventing and eliminating emergencies, developing trade and economic ties, helping to resolve conflicts and reduce tensions, as well as promoting an objective perception of Russia abroad. Assistance is planned to be provided in the form of monetary funds and budget support, supplies of goods, concessional loans, transfer of knowledge and experience, as well as settling the external debts of partner countries on preferential terms. In addition, Russia will be able to pay these countries' contributions to the budgets of UN system organizations, international funds and institutions.