MOSCOW. Sept 18 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has thanked residents of Russia's border regions who cast their ballots in recent local elections, praising their courage and strength of mind.
"I particularly wish to thank voters living in border regions. Despite all hardships, pressure, attempts to destabilize the situation, and terrorist attacks in those territories, people came to polling stations and showed an example of unity and consolidation. Your courage and strength of mind deserve sincere respect. Thank you again for your position," Putin said at a videoconference with the newly-elected heads of local administrations on Wednesday.
"The people living in border regions have been exposed to hard trials," he said.
"And federal, regional, and local government bodies must attach special significance to their needs and requests," he said.