UPDATES WITH MORE REMARKS FROM PUTIN, ADDS MORE DETAILS, EDITS THROUGHOUT
By Burc Eruygur
ISTANBUL (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin was sworn in for a fifth presidential term in an inauguration ceremony held in the capital Moscow on Tuesday.
The ceremony that took place in the Kremlin marks the start of another six-year term in office for Putin, who won 87.28% of the vote during the presidential election held in March.
In a speech after taking the oath to office, Putin thanked the citizens of his country and Russian troops fighting for it, expressing that the interests and safety of his people will remain "above all."
Putin further said that they will determine the fate of Russia themselves and “only ourselves for the sake of today’s and future generations.”
He also said that Russian citizens have confirmed the “correctness” of the country’s course in the presidential election, which he said is of great importance amid the "serious challenges" his country is currently facing.
"I see in this a deep understanding of our common historical goals, a determination to adamantly defend our choice, our values, freedom and the national interests of Russia," he said.
He further expressed his confidence that they will "pass through this difficult milestone period with dignity," adding they will implement long-term plans and large-scale projects aimed at achieving the country's development goals.
Putin went on to say that Russia has been open to strengthening its relations with "all countries that see Russia as a reliable and honest partner," which he described as the "global majority."
"We do not refuse dialogue with Western states. The choice is theirs: Do they intend to continue trying to restrain the development of Russia, continue the policy of aggression, continuous pressure on our country for years, or look for a path to cooperation and peace," he said.
He also reiterated that talks, including on issues related to security and strategic stability, are possible "only on equal terms, respecting each other’s interests."
The president added that Russia will continue to work with its partners to form a multipolar world order and an "equal and indivisible security system."
"In a complex world that is rapidly changing, we must be self-sufficient and competitive, opening new horizons for Russia, as has happened more than once in our history," he said.
Putin also attended a thanksgiving prayer service performed by Patriarch Kirill.
Following the inauguration ceremony, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed a decree on the resignation of the country's government.