Russian economy still corrupt but corruption level on decline – Belousov

MOSCOW. Dec 9 (Interfax) – Rumors of corruption in Russia are exaggeratory and opponents take advantage of the Russian image of a highly corrupt country, Economic Development Minister Andrei Belousov told President Vladimir Putin’s election agents on Sunday.

“Corruption rumors are exaggeratory. This does not mean we have no such problem, but I will be honest: the idea of Russia as a highly corrupt country is being used by our opponents. That is really so,” he said.

Corruption is still large in the Russian economy, but it has reduced considerably to a level lesser than in many countries of Southeast Asia and Latin America, he said. “The problem remains in Russia: there are still kickbacks and various forms of corruption,” the minister admitted.

It is necessary to promote transparency, such as in public procurement and in privatization of federal and regional property, he said.

“I must say that every large deal is in the focus of the attention of the media and prospective sides. We did not have so much transparency two years ago,” he said.