OREANDA-NEWS. August 12, 2012. Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev approved the membership of the Russian Government’s Expert Council. The names of the first 200 specialists included in the new advisory body by the so-called ‘ministerial quota’ were announced. There are heads of large companies, representatives of public organizations – members of the CCI system, lawyers, economists and journalists among them.

The selection of the other half of the experts will begin soon – regional authorities, public and educational establishments will nominate their candidates to the Council. In all, the Council will have 400 members.

The Expert Council will be a key element of the Open Government rendering practical assistance to the Cabinet, the Russian Government, in the efficient fulfillment of its duties.

Many issues will be put on the government’s agenda only after being considered at the Expert Council and with due account of the opinion of that body.