MOSCOW (Xinhua) -- The outgoing year is successful and weighty, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at the New Year reception in the Kremlin on Friday.

""We have achieved many objectives in politics, economy, social and demographic programs,"" Putin was quoted by the Itar-Tass news agency as saying. ""These results serve Russia and its citizens. In return, people supported us at the recent parliament elections.""
Putin thanked everyone who contributed to the fulfillment of strategic plans and who worked together with him for the past eight years ""on the achievement of common goals and carried out the policy of Russia's economic might, authority and influence in the world.""
Russia is steadily promoting its national interests worldwide, the prestige of education is growing, and the native language and literature are developing, he said.
""The successful bid of Sochi for hosting Winter Olympic Games 2014 was a tangible symbol and recognition of our success,"" he said. ""The whole country celebrated that victory. I must say that we would not have won it if we had not revived the economy, finance and political stability in Russia.""
""The year 2008 will be momentous for the country. Once we provide for the continuation of our policy, we will make big progress together,"" Putin said.