Putin expects successor to continue similar policy

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he wants his successor to continue the policy he has pursued.

In an interview published on Tuesday by the Kremlin, Putin, whose second term in office ends in 2008, said: "Certainly, I would like the next president to continue the policy that has been conducted in recent years."

"Judging from opinion polls, the majority of Russians have the same desire," he said. "This is logical as we have escaped from permanent crises in the country and arrived at political and economic stability."

The Russian leader said he liked his job but again ruled out running for a third term, which is prohibited by the constitution. The presidential election is scheduled in 2008.

"I cannot demand others obey the laws if I myself violate them, primarily the constitution, which does not allow election to more than two terms in a row," Putin said.

Putin also offered a few tips for his successor.

"The main goal of the next president and the whole government in Russia will be to secure the gradual growth of individual incomes and the quality of life in Russia," he said.

Source: Xinhua