(Itar-Tass) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday the strength of this country's nuclear shield and the proper situation in its nuclear power sector are vital elements of its status as a world power.
"The nuclear industry potential is crucial for the interests of national security," he said at a conference in Novo-Ogaryovo, the countryside presidential residence west off Moscow, reports Trend.
"Improvement in the nuclear arsenal must go hand in glove with stringent requirements for operation safety and security and, naturally, with commitment to nonproliferation regimes," Putin said.
"Russia maintains a firm and steady position in all of these areas," he indicated.