Russia's incumbent President Vladimir Putin declared victory in the presidential election early Monday.

"I want to thank citizens of our country, thank all those who went to the polling stations and took part in the polls," Putin said at his election headquarters.

"I promise you, that for the next four years, I will work in the same mode," Putin told an interview being aired by the state-run Russia television station.

He promised to ensure further economic growth, strengthen civil society and media freedom.

(Xinhua News Agency March 15, 2004)