During a meeting on the socio-economic development of Crimea and Sevastopol, Putin noted that since the reunification of Crimea with Russia, "a lot has been done" to develop the economy, social sphere, transport infrastructure and preserve the historical and cultural heritage of the region.

“The work is ongoing, systematically and in all key areas.

But we still have to do even more, of course, ”he said.

The head of state recalled that over the previous decades, problems had accumulated in Crimea that had not been "actually solved" and "were in the corral" before.

Now it is necessary to "make up for the time faster" and create comfortable conditions for life and recreation.

“You yourself know very well how much still needs to be built, restored, put in order ... This also applies to water supply, and generally worn out, dilapidated infrastructure.

Nothing was invested for decades, only resources were siphoned out of here, ”Putin stressed.

He called for "gradually and confidently" to develop the region, expanding opportunities in medicine and education, attracting investors and creating new jobs.

Putin also congratulated Crimeans on the seventh anniversary of Crimea's reunification with Russia.

At the end of February, the Russian government extended the federal target program for the socio-economic development of Crimea and Sevastopol until 2025.