Special Report: Yearender 2008

       by Yu Maofeng

    MOSCOW, Dec. 23 (Xinhua) -- Russia underwent a smooth transfer of power in 2008, with former President Vladimir Putin stepping down and his handpicked successor Dmitry Medvedev taking over.

    The new system of power seemed to function well during the past several months in spite of the Caucasus crisis, NATO's eastward expansion and the global financial crisis . The new head of state has continued the policies of his predecessor, whose eight-year presidency was characterized by a booming economy and political stability at home.

    

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev (L) and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin talk during the United Russia party congress in Moscow November 20, 2008.(Xinhua/Reuters Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    MEDVEDEV-PUTIN TANDEM

    Medvedev, the former first deputy prime minister, was sworn in as Russia's new president in May, succeeding his long-time mentor two months after an overwhelming victory in the country's presidential election.

    At Medvedev's inauguration ceremony, Putin called on the entire nation to support the new president and firmly advance along the path of national development.

    Meanwhile, Medvedev repeatedly pledged adherence to Putin's policies, which have "set up strong foundations for long-term development, for decades of free and stable development."

    Medvedev subsequently appointed Putin prime minister and sent him into power in the quickest way.

    So far, Medvedev and Putin have worked in tandem under the constitution. In a swift adjustment to his new role, Medvedev has held talks with European partners, paid a visit to Latin America, and dispatched troops to Georgia's breakaway South Ossetia. He is seen as a housekeeper worth his salt and loyal to his predecessor as well.

    When Putin decides to come back to the presidency, Medvedev will return the keys to him without hesitation, analysts said.

    In his first state-of-the-nation address on Nov. 5, Medvedev proposed extending the presidential and parliamentary terms from four years to six and five respectively. The bill, passed by both houses of the parliament within weeks, was described by Putin as reasonable during a later televised question-and-answer session.

    While Medvedev said the extension of the presidential term enables more effective implementation of reforms, it was seen by some analysts as an attempt to pave the way for Putin's return to the Kremlin.

    However, in response to a question as to how he felt being prime minister, Putin said he was happy, dismissing speculation that he was planning a quick return to the presidency.

    Putin, widely regarded as one who enjoys being a back-seat driver, added that his power tandem with Medvedev was very effective.

    But Putin did not rule out the possibility of a second presidential term, telling reporters he would think about it and make a decision by 2012.

    Once he decides to do so, Putin would be looking at up to 12 years in power, long enough to carry out his plans.