Putin backs return to indexation of pensions for working pensioners

ST. PETERSBURG. June 7 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said he backed the idea of returning to the indexation of pensions for working pensioners.

"I agree with you, we have to make this decision. Perhaps I'll talk about this right now at the forum," he said at a meeting with St. Petersburg Governor of Alexander Beglov in response to the latter's proposal.

Putin said the issue has been under discussion for several years and was constantly being raised by various political forces, including State Duma factions.

He said the indexation of pensions for working pensioners is associated with additional budget expenses, but that currently there was not enough manpower in Russia, and highly qualified specialists who are needed by the economy are retiring.

"The most important thing is to support people and ensure the very social justice that we are constantly talking about," Putin said.