“In 2000, more than 42 million people were below the poverty line in Russia, since then the situation has changed, changed dramatically.
At the end of last year, the number of people below the poverty line dropped to 13.5 million people.
Of course, there is a lot of this, but we are keeping the solution to this problem in our constant focus,” he said.
Putin noted that Russia has approved a number of benefits for families with low incomes and simplified procedures for obtaining certain services and benefits.
“The problems of poverty are still acute.
Now they directly affect more than 9% of the country's population... we need to set clear goals and consistently move towards achieving them.
To ensure that by 2030 the poverty level in Russia falls below 7%,” Putin added.
Earlier, Putin said that the vast majority of the tasks facing the state are being solved.
He added that an important and difficult stage in Russia’s development is underway.
RT is broadcasting live.