Putin chaired the Sports Council meeting.
Key statements by the President:
Organizing sports competitions is a significant direction for promoting the values of an active lifestyle in Russia and maintaining the nation's health.
High level sport is important, but the main task remains people's health and quality of life. It is necessary to allocate funds to support real sports and to reduce regional expenses for professional sports.
Putin ordered to ensure the competition of the Defender of the Fatherland Cup at the highest level starting next year.
The president also instructed to grant free access to children's competitions: this, according to him, is a prerequisite for identifying talents.
Video: The Kremlin. ru.