In 2009, the United States will provide 29 million dollars to promote democracy in Russia. Most of these funds will be spent on the strengthening of civil society, independent media and the rule of law. This was told U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Philip Gordon, speaking to parliamentary committees on the armed forces. Speech published in the State Department site .

Note on the money sent to Russia, he made a reservation, stressing that as far as improving relations with Moscow, Washington is not going to deviate from its principles, or to ignore the concerns about the state of democracy and human rights in Russia .

Gordon tied the allocated funds to the principles that President Barack Obama voiced during a visit to Moscow, speaking to the students of the New Economic School. The lecture was the president of America has confirmed the belief that democratic government is better protecting the rights of their citizens – quotes Deputy Secretary of State Infox.ru . – He emphasized that it is our commitment to the principles of democracy and human rights allows us to correct our own shortcomings, and with time become stronger .

Gordon also recalled the words of Obama that the freedom of speech and assembly, allows citizens to seek the full and uncompromising respect for their rights and the rule of law – successfully combat corruption and abuse of power.

the President stressed the importance of independent media, which forced the Government has not only a detailed report on its actions to the people, but also improve its efficiency.

The U.S. supports these universal rights and freedoms at home, in Russia and around the world. In support of these principles … the U.S. government allocates more than 29 million dollars in aid to promote democracy and human rights in Russia , – said Gordon.

Zamgossekretarya reminded of a recent murder Chechen human rights defender Natalia Estemirova. This tragedy reminds us of the urgent nature of the threats faced by civil society in Russia, and spoke of the need to make progress in our bilateral discussions with Russia on civil society, – leads him RIA Novosti .

remind, in February the State Department in its annual report on human rights again criticized Russia , found violations in all areas.