Politics
22:43, 31-Dec-2017
Putin wishes 'changes for the better' in 2018
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As he prepares to face the electorate in 2018, President Vladimir Putin has delivered a New Year message in which he wishes Russians "changes for the better."
"Let the New Year bring changes for the better in the life of every person and every family," Putin said in the speech aired by state television on Sunday. It was shown a few minutes before midnight in each of Russia's eleven time zones.
The Russian leader addressed "special wishes" to "all of those who are working now, fulfilling their military or professional duty," agencies reported.
He thanked Russians for "believing in themselves and in our country."
He also wished "peace and prosperity to our great Russia, the dear and only one."
Putin has been in power since 1999 and seeks a historic fourth presidential term in March. He is widely expected to win the vote that would extend his rule until 2024 and make him the longest serving Russian leader since dictator Joseph Stalin.
Russia will also host the FIFA World Cup in 2018.
Source(s): AFP