By Elena Teslova
MOSCOW (AA) – Russian President Vladimir Putin officially introduced newly-appointed Defense Minister Andrey Belousov to senior Russian military officials in a meeting in Moscow on Wednesday, expressing confidence in his ability to handle the important portfolio based on his previous Cabinet experience and defense industry expertise.
Belousov was nominated for the position of defense minister on Sunday and approved by parliament on Tuesday. He has also served as the first deputy prime minister in the previous Cabinet.
During the meeting, Putin justified the economist's new position and expressed confidence in his ability, saying Belousov's economic expertise would help balance defense and social expenses while keeping the country's fiscal budget in mind, according to a statement issued by the Kremlin.
"Andrey Belousov has been appointed the new minister of defense. Last but not least, this is due to the fact that spending on the military component is growing," he explained.
The president stressed the need for careful and efficient allocation of resources in the circumstances when Russia's defense and security spending is projected to surpass 8.7% of the national GDP.
"He understands perfectly well what needs to be done in order to integrate the economy of the entire security bloc and the Defense Ministry as a key link of this bloc into the overall economy of the country," he said.
Putin noted that Belousov has also worked on developing Russia's drone industry under his supervision.
Regarding Shoygu, Putin said he will serve as the secretary of the Russian Security Council and organize the work of the Federal Service for Cooperation with foreign countries.
The president assured that no changes are planned for the General Staff and other departments involved in different aspects of combat operations.