Speaking at a gala in Moscow's International Music House, where mothers from all across Russia had been invited to celebrate Mother's Day, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said as follows:

"We still have a long way to go. At a meeting earlier today, Mr Medvedev and I pointed out that in terms of equality, the situation in this country is not ideal."

Then, at the gala host's request, Mr Putin told the gathering about his mother.

"We led a modest life," he recalled. "Our meals usually consisted of simple things, like homemade meatballs, cabbage soup, and blini. But on Sundays and holidays, Mother would bake pies with various fillings, such as cabbage, meat and rice, as well as cottage cheese pastries. These were especially delicious."

He also said his mother had opposed his decision to take up judo. "Each time I set out for a training session, she would ask disapprovingly: 'Off to your fighting class again?'"

According to Mr Putin, it was his coach who eventually settled the conflict by coming over to his parents and telling them all about their son's achievements in the sport. Following that visit, the family's attitude to judo improved dramatically.

"I'm not asking you, Mr Putin, what your mother wanted you to become," the gala host remarked. "But your current job is definitely not the easiest one."

"Our main job is to cherish and protect our mothers," the prime minister replied.