OREANDA-NEWS. Vladimir Putin met with Head of the Republic of Karelia Alexander Khudilaynen to discuss the region’s socioeconomic situation.

Mr Khudilaynen briefed the President on measures to develop tourism in Karelia, in particular, infrastructure development measures, including on the Solovetsky islands.

Mr Khudilaynen said that 1.7 million tourists visit Karelia annually. The republic’s newly reorganised government now has a committee specifically responsible for developing tourism in the region.

Other items discussed at the meeting included the situation at the republic’s big pulp and paper plants, social sector issues related to education and healthcare, housing and road construction, and work to extend connection to the gas network.