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.(Xinhua/Reuters Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    MOSCOW, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Russia's new president Dmitry Medvedev was sworn in on Wednesday, succeeding Vladimir Putin two months after he swept the country's presidential election.

    The inauguration ceremony was held at the Kremlin at noon and was attended by senior officials as well as foreign guests.

    Medvedev, the third and youngest Russian head of state since the collapse of the Soviet Union in the 1990s, swept the March 2 elections thanks to Putin's endorsement.

    The former law professor and first deputy prime minister has pledged to continue Putin's set policies and Putin, who has just completed his two terms as president, is expected to take the role of prime minister on Thursday.

Medvedev nominates Putin as prime minister

    MOSCOW, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Russia's new president Dmitry Medvedev submitted his predecessor Vladimir Putin's nomination as prime minister to the State Duma, the lower house of parliament, the Kremlin press service said on Wednesday.

    Putin's nomination is expected to be approved by the State Duma at an extraordinary plenary session of the house that will begin at noon on Thursday. Full story

Medvedev vows to promote civil, economic freedom

    MOSCOW, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Russia's new President Dmitry Medvedev said on Wednesday that he will promote the civil and economic freedom of Russia.

    He made the remarks at his inauguration ceremony at the Kremlin. Full story