Saratov's Industrial Generals Fight for Reforms and Want To Turn the Shadow Economy Into a Normal Economy

This document is a press article from the August 13, 1993, edition of the Moscow newspaper Izvestiya. It details a meeting in Saratov between local industrial leaders and Russian Premier Viktor Chernomyrdin regarding economic reforms. The primary focus is on the conversion of defense-related enterprises to civilian production to prevent economic collapse. A notable detail within the report is the mention of the local aviation plant, led by General Director Aleksandr Yermishin, which has developed a new machine described as a 'flying saucer.' This machine is intended for commercial production and is expected to receive an international certificate. The article further outlines a proposed 'conversion and privatization fund' designed to attract foreign and domestic investment to Saratov Oblast, with the goal of stabilizing the regional economy through market-oriented reforms. The author, Aleksandr Kislov, explores the pragmatic motivations of the industrial directors, who seek to move beyond the 'shadow economy' toward a more stable, legal market structure. The text also touches upon broader issues, such as the role of organized crime in the economy, the need for legislative changes regarding private property and land ownership, and the potential for political alliances between pragmatists and the government to ensure the success of these transformations.