Dmitry Medvedev is now officially the new Russian president. He was sworn in yesterday in the Kremlin’s golden Andreyevsky Hall and during the grandiose ceremony he nominated Vladimir Putin as his Prime Minister.

“I believe my most important aims will be to protect civil and economic freedoms," he told guests at the inauguration, as quoted by Reuters. Medvedev has announced on numerous occasions his intentions to strengthen democratic freedoms and he is expected to guide Russia in a more pro-Western direction. The plans concern the modernization of economy, the social welfare boost and the end of all infrastructure problems.

Some look at his plans with a certain reserve, as Putin will surely strengthen his prime minister role. Many fear that the dual leadership will lead to conflict and instability. Vladimir Putin also assumed the chairmanship of the United Russia party, which will allow him to dominate politics all around and at any level. He received the support from all United Russia leaders and also two other Kremlin-allied parties in the Duma.

 The official take on things presents the president as the undisputed head of state, responsible for all policy decisions and the prime minister leads the cabinet and looks over the economy.

“I think nobody doubts that our tandem, our cooperation will only strengthen," Medvedev said according to the International Herald Tribune, adding that Putin will play a key role in all future policy implementing.