Sheldyayev named Bashkortostan premier; analyst says real economy to gain focus

Alexander Sheldyayev's appointment as premier of Bashkortostan signals the government's priorities, according to political analyst Alexei Mukhin, general director of the Center for Political Information. Mukhin said the decision makes clear that strengthening the real economy is the cabinet's key task for the near future.

Mukhin said head of the republic Radiy Khabirov recommended a candidate with experience in new production and enterprise modernisation. He noted that Sheldyayev grew up within the regional management team, knows the problems of enterprises from the inside and has experience supporting investment projects. Mukhin said the industrial base must sustain current demand, help the front and drive regional development.

Mukhin also pointed to the target set by Khabirov: Bashkortostan should reach a gross regional product of four trillion rubles by 2030. The analyst said the appointment fits this plan and that the new premier knows the work of regional government from the inside.