Putin's powers as PM to be boosted

Russia's government may soon gain control over the Kremlin's regional envoys, a move that would boost President Vladimir Putin's powers as a future prime minister, the Vedomosti daily reported yesterday.

Putin's eight-year presidency comes to an end next month when his successor, president-elect Dmitry Medvedev, is sworn in. Putin said he would work as prime minister under Medvedev.

Investors are watching for any indications of how the duo will divide up powers, and there is speculation that Putin will preserve significant influence, at least for an initial period.