OREANDA-NEWS. September 03, 2009. Dmitry Medvedev sent a message of greetings to participants and guests of 7th International Banking Forum: Banks of Russia - 21st Century.

The telegram reads, in part: “It is already the seventh consecutive year that national and international experts, academics, representatives of government and business circles are meeting in Sochi. The participants in this forum will discuss current development trends in the banking sector, as well as compile and develop proposals for joint initiatives designed to modernise Russia's economy.

A well-functioning banking system is an essential element of a competitive economy. The stability and efficiency of Russia's financial sector have been maintained thanks to anti-crisis measures. Today, it is important to ensure that mortgages and other financial services are available to the public, as well as provide credit to the real sector, especially small and medium business.”

The forum Banks of Russia - 21st Century is being held September 3-6, 2009 in Sochi with the support of the World Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the International Monetary Fund and the International Finance Corporation.