“We really want to strengthen our political system, and despite all the difficulties, we are doing this, including thanks to your efforts and those of your team,” Putin told Pamfilova, according to the Kremlin press service on Friday.

The Russian president also underscored the importance of maintaining the stability and strength of the political system, as well as ensuring a sound internal environment in the current circumstances.

In his view, this stability is the pillar that allows Russia to advance on all fronts, from defense and security to economic development.

Pamfilova, in turn, affirmed during the meeting that turnout on this year’s single voting day was “quite high for regional elections,” reaching 46 percent, a five percent increase compared to the 2022 elections.

The CEC chief also noted that the electoral process proceeded with “surprising calm” and emphasized that Russia has learned to hold elections even under extreme conditions, without seeking pretexts to postpone them.

iff/otf/gfa