Donetsk, Dec 28 - DAN. DPR authorities should focus on the Republic’s economic development and the welfare of its citizens in 2018, DPR Head Alexander Zakharchenko said in his annual address to the People’s Council on Thursday.

“I wish to tell you frankly that the enemy has not broken us, so it’s time for the government and the People’s Council to consider broader issues, such as economic development and the welfare of our citizens. 2018 should become a year of development for the country; the government should provide the guaranteed social benefits and show development dynamics,” he said.

He underscored that 2018 would become a breakthrough year for the republic and that the parliamentarians should contribute to it. “I’m sure the legislators will cope with these tasks,” the DPR leader said.

Zakharchenko expressed confidence on Straight Talk programme on Wednesday that the Republic’s economy would take a big step forward next year. *jk