Moscow, 24 April 1997 (RFE/RL) - Russia's President Boris Yeltsin today named First Deputy Prime Minister Boris Nemtsov as fuel and energy minister. Nemtsov is to oversee the restructuring of natural monopolies like gas, electricity and railways.
The 37-year-old Nemtsov, a youthful liberal, is considered one of Russia's most popular politicians.
His appointment comes the same day that Yeltsin admonished Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin for not promoting young people in government.
In his regular radio address, Yeltsin said the young are the best guarantees for future reforms.
Earlier this week, Nemtsov also called for young people to take a lead in Russian politics and industry.
Nemtsov replaces Pyotr Rodionov, who resigned last month.
The 37-year-old Nemtsov, a youthful liberal, is considered one of Russia's most popular politicians.
His appointment comes the same day that Yeltsin admonished Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin for not promoting young people in government.
In his regular radio address, Yeltsin said the young are the best guarantees for future reforms.
Earlier this week, Nemtsov also called for young people to take a lead in Russian politics and industry.
Nemtsov replaces Pyotr Rodionov, who resigned last month.