Saturday Morning News

Putin Calls for Economic Reforms, Stronger Central Government in Russia

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

MILES O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: Russian President Vladimir Putin is calling on his nation to be strong in order to stay together. He issued the plea today during the -- his first State of the Nation address since winning the election earlier this year.

We get more from CNN's Steve Harrigan in Moscow.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

STEVE HARRIGAN, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): In a passionate, one-hour performance, Russia's president called for liberal economic reforms combined with a much stronger central government. The vision of Russia's future outlines a shift in power from the regions to the Kremlin.

"Today we are still hearing speculations about dictatorship and authoritarian rule, but our stand is crystal clear. Only a strong state or an efficient and democratic state can protect civil, political, and economic freedoms of the people."

One freedom currently under examination in the new administration, freedom of the press. Just weeks after the brief arrest of media magnate and Kremlin critic Vladimir Gusinski (ph), Mr. Putin said the press in Russia was largely under control of financial clans, some of whom he described as anti-state.

DMITRI TRENEN, CARNEGIE MOSCOW CENTER: Those who are concerned about the freedom of the press in Russia, the freedom of the media, will be, I guess, very worried after the speech.

HARRIGAN: The reaction from lawmakers was mixed.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The economic part is great. As far as freedom is concerned, frankly speaking, I don't understand what he means.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I know that our president has a democratic values, I have no doubt. But the way to try to reach this (UNINTELLIGIBLE), I have a lot of doubts that it's correct.

HARRIGAN: Approval ratings for the new president are well over 50 percent, making him even more popular now than when he was elected just 100 days ago. (on camera): Judging from the polls, the promise of a strong hand in the Kremlin has struck a chord with the Russian people.

Steve Harrigan, CNN, Moscow.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

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