I understand, however, that your support is only an advance payment to government as a whole and, of course, to me, who today is taking the oath as President of the country. I am also addressing those who voted for other candidates. It is my conviction that you voted for our common future and for our common goals, for a better life and for a strong and prosperous Russia. Each of us has his or her own experience and views. But we must be together as we have a great deal to do by joint effort.
Today is a truly historic day.
It is passed on lawfully and peacefully. Any change of guard always is a test of the constitutional system, a test of its strength. But we have passed this test and this landmark in a dignified manner. We have proved that Russia is becoming a truly modern democracy. Peaceful succession of power is the most important element of political stability, stability which we all were dreaming about, seeking and working for.