The Russian Federation Council, upper house of the parliament, has approved the extension of presidential term from four years to six years, local media reported on Wednesday.

The legislative body also passed the amendment of the Constitution which will increase the mandate of the deputies of the State Duma, lower house of the parliament, from four years to five years.

The extension of presidential term will be effective till the next president, according to the bill.

The State Duma has adopted the bill last Friday, 16 days after President Dmitry Medvedev put forth the initiative in his first state-of-the-nation address.

To enter into force, the draft law still need the approval of two-thirds of regional legislatures. Considering the ruling United Russia party's influence, analysts believe that the constitutional amendments are certain to take place.

(Xinhua News Agency November 26, 2008)