Putin formally takes office as Russian president for 6-year term
MOSCOW, May.7, (ST)- The ceremony of inaugurating Vladimir Putin as the president of the Russian Federation has kicked off at the Grand Kremlin Palace but parts of it will take place outside at Cathedral Square where the Kremlin Presidential Regiment will march following the ceremony.
Tass reported on Tuesday that Putin has formally taken office as Russian president for another six-year term, Constitutional Court Chairman Valery Zorkin announced.
He took the oath to the people.
Zorkin handed him the symbols of presidential power, including the presidential insignia, that is, the golden cross of St. George, depicting the Russian coat of arms and a gold chain with the words “Virtue, Honesty and Glory.”
After being sworn in, the head of state delivered a speech.
Russia is ready to engage in a fair dialogue on security and strategic stability, Putin said at his inauguration ceremony.
“Dialogue, particularly on security issues and strategic stability, is possible. However, it should not be held from a position of strength but should be free of arrogance, conceit and a sense of exceptionalism. The parties to the dialogue should be equal and have respect for each other’s interests,” he noted.
Putin emphasized that together with its partners in the Eurasian integration process and other sovereign centers of development, Russia would continue working to establish a multipolar world order and a system of equal and indivisible security.
His first two terms in office lasted four years each. However, the presidential term was later extended to six years based on constitutional amendments. Putin’s first six-year presidential term began in 2012 and the second one in 2018. In 2020, the Constitution was changed to make it possible for him to run for president in 2024. Putin won the election, garnering an unprecedented 87.28% of the vote.
Going forward, Russia’s top priorities will be to have a thriving population and preserve its centuries-old values and traditions, the Russian president affirmed.
“These are, first of all, government initiatives aimed at sustainable population growth,” he said in his inauguration speech, listing the country’s top priorities. He emphasized that “support for centuries-old family values and traditions will continue to unite public and religious associations, political parties at all levels of the government.”
Putin emphasized that decisions on the development of the country and regions should be effective and fair, and improve the welfare and quality of life of Russian families.
Source: TASS
Compiled by: Basma Qaddour