Question: Mr Putin, 2011 is drawing to a close and everyone is ready to welcome the New Year. Meanwhile, the crisis is raging somewhere, rallies and elections are being held – some are already over, while the others are just beginning. How do you feel as you approach the holidays? And most importantly, what would you like to wish the nation?

Vladimir Putin: Indeed, the global economy has still not stabilised. In this sense, Russia is an "island of stability" to a certain extent. At least, it has been one so far, although it is true that the situation around the country gives cause for concern. But owing to the fact that we have made a successful recovery from the crisis, our economy has been gaining momentum. This gives us confidence that next year will also be successful for us.

We are currently in the middle of the political cycle: the parliamentary elections are over and the presidential election will be held soon. At such times, politicians always try to manipulate the voters' feelings, everything is a little shaken up and seething, but that is the invetable cost of democracy. There's nothing unusual here.

I would like to wish well-being and prosperity to all Russians regardless of their political preferences, both to those who support the left forces and to those who are on the right of the political spectrum, on the top, at the bottom, wherever. Incidentally, the coming year is the Year of the Dragon according to the Chinese calendar. I was born in the Year of the Dragon. As a rule, it has always brought us good fortune. I hope that this time the Dragon will also bring luck, well-being and prosperity to every Russian family, to every Russian.

I wish everyone a Happy New Year!