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Speaking with the students, Mr Putin expressed his view that political stability in Russia could be guaranteed only by “steady” European-style organised political parties. He said that establishing a stable political system would be a major objective for the winner of the presidential election on March 26.

Speaking of his own political plans, the acting head of state said that he would not rush to make public his election programme so as not to make that programme the object of harsh attacks. Mr Putin stressed that he had well-considered ideas that would be announced in due course.

Asked about the present situation and prospects for reforming the armed forces, he said that Russia needed a professional army. Military units performing tasks that require special training or were fraught with extreme danger should be transferred to contract principle of manning in the first place. As for other units, Mr Putin said that an alternative type of service should be allowed as an option there.

Speaking to young people, the acting president answered a number of acute questions on employment, the necessity to raise scholarships and wages for young specialists.