If regional associations are created, they should work on the basis of WTO norms, on the WTO basis.

The mutual sympathy of our peoples is and will remain the foundation of our relations [with Germany].

We are going to set up a branch of the St Petersburg Mariinsky Theatre here [on the Far Easter]. We are also planning to open local branches of the Hermitage Museum and the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet.

Russia has made its choice in favor of democracy. Fourteen years ago, independently, without any pressure from outside, it made that decision in the interests of itself and interests of its people - of its citizens. This is our final choice, and we have no way back. There can be no return to what we used to have before.

I believe that the presidential term should be limited.

The natural economic, humanitarian and social integration, do not require any armed forces.

Nuclear weapons and other weapons are the means to protect our sovereignty and legitimate interests, not the means to behave aggressively or to fulfil some non-existent imperial ambitions.