Russia’s version of the World Economic Forum highlights its ambivalence about capitalism
'Mr Putin delivered a vigorous speech about making Russia more
business-friendly. But under his rule state-backed behemoths have
strengthened their grip. And later that day Mr Putin made a point of
keeping the bosses of four Western energy companies waiting to see him
in a dark, chairless foyer for three hours. Mr Putin needs to recognise
that delivering on his promises to create a more business-friendly
environment, not least by simplifying regulations, tackling corruption
and privatising some state giants, is in his own interests as well as
the country’s. The cost of continued ambivalence will be political
instability as well as economic stagnation'
