Instant applause for President Vladimir Putin for sticking with, and reaffirming, the sanctity of the Russian constitution, and the term limit wisely imposed by it. So, Putin leaves in 2008.

This is significant because Moscow will play increasing regional and global roles this century, and must be seen to respect the rule of law.

Despite huge public support and unprecedented oil & gas incomes, Putin rises above the hints, the temptation and outright demands for possible tenure elongation. Clever soul. The G8 must be mightily proud of him. So are we. Let the president extend this statesmanship in immediate resolution of the Georgian and other neighbourhood spats. A tower is a tower, Mr President, do hold the torch aloft. Make lasting peace TODAY....and set the pace. You can, and should, do it.

May the Kremlin, henceforth, flourish in democracy - true democracy!