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Gryzlov Urges Politicians To Refrain From Steps That Could Upset Public Peace

MOSCOW. Aug 19 (Interfax) - State Duma Speaker and United Russia leader Boris Gryzlov has urged Russian politicians not to make moves that could upset public accord ahead of the elections.

"Accord and unity take a long time to attain, but can be ruined very quickly. This must be remembered not only by those in power, but also by all civil society institutions and all responsible political forces, especially now, at an extremely important current stage of parliamentary and presidential elections," Gryzlov told parliamentary reporters on Sunday.

"The United Russia party protects socio-political and economic stability. We urge all our opponents in the upcoming election campaign to demonstrate restraint, to respect and value their country and their people, and to refrain from moves and statements that could undermine the hard-won public accord," he said.

Regarding the 1991 attempted coup, Gryzlov said, "it was a manifestation of a serious crisis that befell Russia."

"A crisis had blighted all spheres - from the economy to state government. We found ourselves on the brink of civil confrontation. Attempts to recoup historical mistakes by using force could have led to an even worse tragedy. This can be seen from the lessons of the August putsch," Gryzlov said.