Old policies, new challenges as Medvedev takes over

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-05-08 11:27

Russia's President Dmitry Medvedev (R) receives control over strategic nuclear forces in the presence of Defence Minister Anatoly Serdyukov (2nd R) at the presidential study in the Kremlin in Moscow May 7, 2008. [Agencies]

The share of oil and gas in Russia's GDP has increased from 12.7 percent in 1999 to 31.6 percent in 2007, and natural resources account for 80 percent of its exports, according to the Institute of Economic Analysis.

The new president is expected to reform the executive and legal branches to better administrate the country and facilitate economic development, analysts say.

Another challenge for Medvedev would be finding the best way to deal with the West and some neighboring countries, ties with whom soured over such issues as the gas price dispute, the planned US missile shield deployment in eastern Europe and the eastward expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

Putin's role

Speaking at Medvedev's inauguration ceremony, Putin called on the Russian nation support Medvedev and continue on the path toward national development.

"It is now very important to continue the already chosen course of the country's development, guided by citizens' interests, which has already justified itself," Putin told the assembled lawmakers, government officials and foreign diplomats.

The former president's achievements during his two terms, including the consolidation of the Kremlin's power and the improvement of the economy, won him enormous support among Russians.

Just hours after Medvedev took office, Russia's Viktor Zubkov-led cabinet tendered its resignation and Medvedev nominated Putin as prime minister.

The State Duma or lower house of parliament is expected to meet Thursday to vote on Putin's nomination, said Duma Speaker Boris Gryzlov.

It is widely believed that Putin will continue to wield considerable influence in his new role of prime minister and, together with strong ally Medvedev, will work to maintain Russia's stability, boost its economy and promote its influence on the international stage.

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