At the end of the first day of his visit to China, Vladimir Putin gave an interview to Chinese journalists. He said one of the main reasons he decided to run for president was the effectiveness of Russia's anti-crisis policy. According to Putin, the economic achievements of the 2000s provide a good chance for Russia's successful long-term economic development.
A journalist asked Putin why he decided to run for president again after he had previously described his work as "toiling like a galley slave."
"The decision we have made together with the acting president is the right one, as it in no way weakens but rather strengthens Russia's system of government," the prime minister said. "We hope the voters will support us, taking into account our efforts in overcoming the economic crisis, a difficult period in the life of our country, with minimal losses."
Putin reminded journalists that Russia managed to halve the number of people living below the official poverty line, and to double the country's economic potential. Putin said he and Medvedev have something to offer Russian citizens.
Most importantly, he is ready to present his programme to voters.
The Chinese journalists commended Putin for his side interests, which varied from flying a fighter plane to diving for amphorae, and receiving a black belt in judo. Putin said there are many people with similar talents in Russia, but that they are just not shown on TV.
"I like to master something new. This process gives me pleasure," the prime minister said. "Currently, I am learning to skate. I have never skated before, something I mentioned to Premier Wen Jiabao, with whom I discuss many different subjects."
Putin said that sport helps him in politics too.
"It is very good if a politician does a sport. Although, most importantly, a politician should be frank with the public and be able to lay out his position clearly and speak about difficult solutions and prospects for the country's development," Putin said.
He touched on the issue of gas sales to China. The prime minister has not come to an agreement on this subject with his Chinese colleagues. The parties cannot agree on a price for natural gas.
"We do not conduct trade at the political level, this is the responsibility of our companies," Putin explained. "And they will find a fair solution that is mutually beneficial for both China and Russia. This is the difficult part of commercial negotiations."
Anastasia Novikova, Beijing