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Putin to retain powers

MOSCOW: Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has confirmed that he plans to become Prime Minister after stepping down next month and said he intends to retain key levers of power in the new post.

“The President sets the main directions for internal and external policies. But the highest executive power in the country is the Russian government headed by the Prime Minister,” Mr. Putin said, adding that there would be no conflict with the new President about the sharing of authority.

The March 2 presidential election in Russia is widely expected to be won by Mr. Putin’s long-time loyal associate Dmitry Medvedev, who said he wanted Mr. Putin to head the new government.

Mr. Putin said he did not mind moving to the No 2 position in the Russian hierarchy.

“I’d be happy to serve my country in another capacity and I will work as hard as I have in the capacity of President,” Mr. Putin said, addressing his last annual press conference. It was Mr. Putin’s longest interaction with the media. During the four-and-a-half hours, the Russian leader took dozens of questions from Russian and foreign journalists.

“If I can see that in this capacity I can fulfil these goals, I will work as long as possible.” At the same time, Mr. Putin said he had not become “addicted” to power.

Mr. Putin said he had “worked as a slave” throughout his eight years in power and was happy with his achievements.

“We had a fragmented country [when he took over]. We have resurrected the country, we have rebuilt its economy on a completely new, market basis. Russia is emerging as a global economic leader. I am happy with the results of my work.”

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