Putin backs Medvedev
Monday, 10 Dec 2007 15:15
Vladimir Putin has given his full support to Dmitry Medvedev to be his successor
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Russian president Vladimir Putin has backed the country's deputy prime minister to succeed him when he stands down next year, Russian news agencies claim.
Mr Putin said Dmitry Medvedev's candidacy has his full support after the deputy prime minister was nominated by four Russian parties including Putin's United Russia.
Mr Medvedev, a former lawyer, managed Putin's 2000 presidential campaign and was previously his chief of staff.
The 42-year-old is currently chairman of Russian energy giant Gazprom.
On hearing of his nomination, Mr Putin said: "I fully support this candidacy.
"I have been very closely acquainted with him for 17 years and I completely and fully support this candidacy."
Mr Putin must step down next year on March 2nd as he is unable to seek a third presidential term.
Despite Russia's constitution barring him from the president's role, Mr Putin is expected to run for prime minister.