Russian government sets up state council for nanotechnology
(Nanowerk News) The Russian government has set up a state council for nanotechnology, to be chaired by Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov, the government's press service said Thursday.
The resolution on the formation of the new body, which will ensure interaction between government, business and scientists in the implementation of the state policy in the spheres of nanotechnology and nano-industry, was signed by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov.
Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted high-tech industries in his state of the nation address in April, saying research in nanotechnology, which promises advances in medicine, space research, telecommunications and weapons production, should receive priority funding.
"The government should provide the necessary funding to arrange this work in terms of technical equipment, staff and organizational support," Putin said.
The council on nanotechnology will make assessments and recommendations on the development and practical implementation of scientific achievements in nanotechnology, promote nano-industry and form a market for nano-products and -services.
As another step in promotion of nanotechnology in Russia the State Duma, Russian parliament's lower house, passed in the first reading Thursday a bill on the formation of the Russian nanotechnology corporation.
