"In 1987, former Soviet Union President Mikhail Gorbachev reminded us that perestroika was not an "illumination or revelation." Perestroika was highly celebrated by his Western admirers. In Russia the changes during perestroika were often difficult and the attempted transition to a government designed with the best aspects of socialism and democracy was confusing to many citizens.
He explained perestroika aimed for "ever better satisfaction of the Soviet people's requirements for good living and working conditions, for good rest and recreation, education and health care."
He was responsible for glasnost , meaning openness. The release of information was a welcome although bittersweet time. Finally, Russian history, literature and books from the rest of the world were accessible.
In a Moscow news conference Gorbachev gently criticized comments made about the upcoming presidential elections. "I think it is far from being modest when Vladimir Vladimirovich (Putin) says that he will sit down with Dmitry Anatolievich (Medvedev) and choose who will run for president. This is for the voters to decide, notPutin."
In an exclusive interview with RT.com journalist Sophie Shevardnazde asked his thoughts on President Barack Obama. "I think he's been doing a good job so far. I think that he got his health care bill passed is terrific, but rich Republicans don't like it. I admire him because when things get hot, for example, when they had to get the new START treaty ratified, he got involved personally, he talks to people and about 12 senators changed sides . . . " please continue at http://news.yahoo.com/s/ac/20110302/pl_ac/7980438_mikhail_gorbachev_80_shares_his_thoughts_on_perestroika_glasnost_obama (photo is AP/AFP)
All about the Great Gorby - http://bit.ly/eGL5Er
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