AP
May 8, 2008
MOSCOW - Dmitry Medvedev was inaugurated as Russia's president yesterday pledging to bolster the country's economic development and civil rights, in what may signal a departure from his predecessor's heavy-handed tactics.
Medvedev took the oath of office in the Kremlin's golden-hued Andreyevsky Hall, bringing to an end Vladimir Putin's eight years as president. But Putin is sure to continue to wield huge influence.
Little more than two hours after becoming president, Medvedev nominated Putin to be prime minister.
In his inaugural address, Medvedev referred to civil rights several times.
