Abramovich hailed as saviour
Published 22 September, 2008, 22:39
Chukotka, Russia's most north-easterly region is known for its plentiful natural resources, bitter Arctic climate and jet-setting former Governor. Roman Abramovich, billionaire owner of Chelsea football team, took the region under his wing for eight years and transformed it beyond recognition.
The people of Chukotka divide history into what was before and what was after Abramovich.
Kristina and Mikhail are indigenous Chukchi people, carrying on a family business as reindeer breeders. They have a herd of some 2,000 animals, which they expect to double by winter.
“When Abramovich came, we were dying from hunger, literally dying. I'd like to ask President Medvedev to reward Abramovich for what he's done – he saved us,” says Mikhail.
Abramovich, one of the world's richest men according to Forbes magazine, took the reins in Chukotka when the region announced it was bankrupt. The Governor made Chukotka his pet project, reportedly reaching deep into his own pockets to fund its development.
Irina Yatytval remembers a different, harsher, Chukotka. “There was no electricity before; our houses were old and ramshackle. He moved us to these cottages – warm and comfortable, whole villages were built,” she says.
A five-year moratorium on the slaughter of reindeer saved the animal from being wiped out in the area, and the population of an animal essential for Chukotka is now increasing.
But mining has become the true salvation for the region rich in oil, gas, coal and even gold.
“Gold production and industry development have brought investment to the region. But what's more important is that people are provided with a job, and unemployment gives no more misfortune to the area,” said Grigory Tynankergaf, a member of Chukotka's industrial administration.
Chukotka's favorite governor Roman Abramovich resigned this summer but people here are sure he won't abandon them. With his name topping the list of candidates for next month's parliamentary election, it seems it's too early to talk about Chukotka without Abramovich.
Meanwhile, his visit to Kazakhstan, President Medvedev is due to visit to the region.
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