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In 2004, the major goal of the Russian Armed Forces will be to protect the
sovereignty, territorial integrity and other important national interests of
Russia, a new year's address of Russian Defense Minister Sergey Ivanov to
servicemen and veterans of Armed Forces says.
As the document points out, the year 2003 was not "easy and cloudless".
However, despite objective difficulties, one can state that the main goal
was achieved: "a long period of reforming of the Russian army and navy has
been competed, they have overcome the crisis; conditions necessary for
transition to a full-fledged military development have been created".
In 2003, a positive trend of intensification of combat training has been
enhanced. Large-scale maneuvers took place, including unique exercises of
the Pacific Fleet jointly with units of other ministries and agencies. The
transition to voluntary enlisting has started.
The minister expressed confidence that in 2004 "we shall jointly succeed
creating an up-to-date and efficient Armed Forces that meet the highest
requirements of the 21st century".
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RUSSIA IN FACTS
