Putin proposed a referendum to amend the Russian constitution, to increase parliamentary power and tighten requirements for the presidential candidate.

"I think it is necessary to conduct a vote on the whole proposed amendment of the constitution. It is necessary to respect the public opinion of us to build a prosperous and powerful Russia," President Putin today. speaking in his annual speech to parliament in Moscow. He did not specify the date the referendum was held.

Regarding the proposed constitutional amendment, Putin called for strengthening the power of parliament, giving legislators the right to choose the prime minister. The Prime Minister will submit to the National Assembly a nomination for the position of Deputy Prime Minister and Ministers.

He also proposed tightening requirements for presidential candidates. They must have no foreign nationality and have lived in Russia for at least 25 years instead of 10 years as currently prescribed.

Another important issue that Putin points out is that Russia should only abide by international agreements, treaties and decisions if they are not in conflict with the Russian constitution, and do not restrict citizens' rights and freedoms. Russia.

The last time Russia conducted a referendum was in 1993, when it adopted the constitution under Putin's predecessor, Vladimir Yeltsin.