PUTIN: RECORD TURNOUT SHOWS CITIZENS' SUPPORT FOR GOVERNMENT'S COURSE

MOSCOW, SEPTEMBER 23 /SRNA - RIA Novosti/ - Record turnout in the State Duma elections shows that Russian citizens support the authorities' initiatives aimed at strengthening the country, Russian President Vladimir Putin said.

He said that the active participation of Russians in the elections indicates their expectation that all goals aimed at strengthening Russia will be achieved.

"We must do everything to justify the trust that Russians have placed in both the Russian Government and the country's entire leadership," Putin added.

Chairwoman of Russia's Central Election Commission Ella Pamfilova said on Monday that turnout in the State Duma elections had exceeded 59 percent.