The ceremony opened with the National Anthem. Mr Luzhkov took the oath of office and Vladimir Platonov, chairman of the Moscow City Duma, then presented the mayor with the symbols of office – the ‘certificate of mayoralty’ and a chain with the image of St George, the patron saint of Moscow.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Putin said that he had decided to propose Mr Luzhkov’s nomination for a fifth term in office based on the results of the 15 years of work he has already done as mayor of Moscow.
The President noted that scientific and cultural development is going ahead successfully in Moscow and that the city is paying a lot of attention to veterans, housing construction and healthcare services. Mr Putin wished Mr Luzhkov, the city’s leadership and all Muscovites continued success in their efforts to develop the capital.