MOSCOW, January 10 (RAPSI) - Public officials who receive gifts worth over 3,000 rubles ($90) will have to hand them in, but may buy them back if they wish, according to a resolution passed by the Russian government.

The press service of the cabinet of ministers reports that the definition of a “gift” is anything granted in relation to the services of the receiver. Flowers, awards and stationary bestowed at official events, however, are not considered gifts.

Public officials must report any gifts to their employer within three days of receiving them, submitting a notification (two copies) and providing a receipt.

The value of the gift will be determined according to its market price. The receiver may keep any gifts worth under 3,000 rubles. Any more expensive gifts must be registered as federal or regional property.

However, officials are allowed to apply to buy back the gift within two months of handing it in. Otherwise the gift will remain at disposal of the state and may be sold, donated to charity or destroyed.