Medvedev sworn in as Russian president -- china.org.cn

Russia's new president Dmitry Medvedev was sworn in on Wednesday, succeeding Vladimir Putin two months after he swept the country's presidential election.

Dmitry Medvedev is sworn in as a new Russian President in Moscow's Kremlin throne room, to replace his long-time mentor, the powerful Vladimir Putin, May 7, 2008. Medvedev was sworn in as president in a solemn ceremony in the Kremlin's throne room on Wednesday, ushering in an unprecedented period of dual rule with his predecessor Vladimir Putin, who becomes prime minister.

The inauguration ceremony was held at the St. Andrew Hall of the Great Kremlin Palace in central Moscow at noon and attended by senior officials as well as foreign guests.

As broadcasted live on state television, Putin arrived first and strode across one of the Kremlin's squares alone. He bid brief farewell to the presidential regiment and entered the palace.

Medvedev, who came next, was shown making a long and solemn walk through two sprawling reception halls before entering the St. Andrew Hall.

Making speech first on the inauguration, Putin thanked Russians for their support during his eight years in office, saying he "has not violated his promise" made when he took office eight years ago.

He asked Russians to support Medvedev and continue the path for the country's development.

Dmitry Medvedev enters the hall to be sworn in as the new Russian president in Moscow's Kremlin throne room May 7, 2008. Medvedev was sworn in as president in a solemn ceremony in the Kremlin's throne room on Wednesday, ushering in an unprecedented period of dual rule with his predecessor Vladimir Putin, who becomes prime minister.

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