Russia's growing middle class, the future of the country, has not been heard by media or Washington policy makers. Not only are they a significant part of Russia's rebounding domestic economy, but they are also establishing ethical businesses, working to defeat corruption, and silently providing a social safety net for Russia's crumbling orphanages, schools and churches. There could not be a more historic or opportune moment for this event. In 2001, Russia will reach the 10 year mark of its historic transition from communism to capitalism. This anniversary coincides with the dawn of new presidential administrations in both countries.
Critical policies are on the threshold of being crafted.