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Putin to be inaugurated under same scenario as Medvedev in 2008

Preparations for the inauguration are in full swing, literally day and night

MOSCOW, April 19 (Itar-Tass) — The inauguration ceremony of Russian President Vladimir Putin on May 7 will be held under exactly the same scenario as the inauguration of Dmitry Medvedev in 2008, commandant of the Moscow Kremlin Sergei Khlebnikov told Itar-Tass.

“Preparations for the inauguration are in full swing, literally day and night,” Khlebnikov said.

According to him, the ceremony scenario has already been tested in 2004 and 2008, so this time it will also be observed. “Although, minor differences are possible, their discussion still continues,” the commandant of the Kremlin said.

He confirmed that he, like during the two previous inaugurations, will be the first to meet the incoming head of state at the entrance to the Grand Kremlin Palace. Khlebnikov added that a solemn march of the Guard of Honour company and the cavalry escort will be a mandatory part of the program.

Khlebnikov said that during the inauguration, “naturally, the necessary security measures will be taken.” Thus, on May 7, the Kremlin will be closed to visitors, but on May 8 it is planned to resume excursions there.

In addition to preparations for the inauguration, the commandant these days is also busy doing spring chores in the territory entrusted to him. “In the Tainitsky Garden we have replaced 325 old trees and planted young linden, spruce, mountain ash, apple, lilac trees,” Khlebnikov said before going to inspect the garden work.

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