Text of address by Russian President Boris Yeltsin on his decision to dismiss the Russian government, as broadcast by Russian NTV television on 23rd March:

Excerpt from address - in Russian (Dur 1' 42")

Dear fellow countrymen, today I signed a decree dismissing the government.

[Prime Minister] Viktor Stepanovich Chernomyrdin is also leaving his post.

It is always difficult to part with old colleagues. We have worked together for more than five years. Viktor Stepanovich has done a great deal for the country. I greatly value his thoroughness and reliability. I have never had any doubts regarding his loyalty, his devotion to the cause of reform or his integrity.

The new [presidential] election in the year 2000 is of great importance to us. One could say that it will determine the future of Russia.

I have instructed Chernomyrdin to concentrate on political preparations for the forthcoming election.

No change of course

Dear Russians, the resignation of the government does not mean a change in our political course. It is an attempt to give the economic reforms more energy and efficiency, to give them an additional push, a new impetus.

This is a natural process of renewing the power structure. There is no such thing as a government which cannot be changed.

Government didn't cope with "key questions"

The present composition of the Cabinet of Ministers has on the whole resolved the tasks it was set, but, unfortunately, it did not cope with a number of key questions.

Yes, we achieved a certain amount of progress in the economy. But we are still lagging far behind in the social sphere. People do not feel any changes for the better.

I feel that, lately, the government has clearly been lacking in dynamism and initiative, new views, fresh approaches and ideas. Without that, a powerful spurt in the economy is simply impossible.

New team needed

In short, the country needs a new team, able to achieve real, tangible results. I think that members of the cabinet need to concentrate more on dealing with concrete economic and social matters and to engage less in politics.

Temporarily, pending the appointment of a new prime minister, I shall myself perform his duties. I shall shortly nominate a candidate for that post. I am sure that the deputies share my position.

The government today must work more decisively and vigorously. I hope that the proposed candidate will be supported by them.

I am counting a great deal on your understanding and support, dear people of Russia.

In the very near future, our country will have a new, strong government. Thank you for listening.

Source: NTV, Moscow, in Russian 0900 gmt 23 Mar 98

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