KUNASHIR, Kuril Islands. Nov 1 (Interfax) - Russia is interested in the advancement of the Kuril Islands, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has said.
He arrived at Kunashir Island on Monday to see the actual living conditions in the area. He visited a family living on the island and talked to his hosts over tea.
"We want people to remain here. Development here is important. We will definitely be investing money here," Medvedev said.
He asked his hosts about food supplies and the standard of healthcare on the island.
He was told that food is being shipped to the island and all necessities are available. The hostess, a mother of two, pointed out to the wall where a butterfly was sitting. She said that on Sunday when the weather on the island was fine, the butterfly had flown in and stayed.
However, by the time the president arrived the weather had turned to wintry shower.
Medvedev said that the butterfly was a good sign meaning the speedy arrival of visitors and added with a smile: "And one flew in."