Vladimir Putin presides over cabinet meeting in Moscow, 21 Apr 2008

Russian President Vladimir Putin, who leaves office in two weeks, says Russia's foreign policy will retain continuity and will remain predictable after his departure.

The Itar-Tass news agency quotes Mr. Putin as telling newly-posted ambassadors to Moscow that recent legislative and presidential elections show overwhelming support for established foreign policy.  He also said Tuesday that Russia values "frank dialogue" with foreign governments in the search for "mutually acceptable" decisions.

The pro-Putin United Russia Party emerged victorious in parliamentary and presidential elections.  However, key opposition figures accused the Kremlin of eliminating any credible opposition months before the balloting

Mr. Putin's handpicked successor, Dmitri Medvedev, who takes office May 7, won 70 percent of the vote in the March 2 presidential poll.

Mr. Putin is expected to become Russia's prime minister when he leaves the presidency.

Some information for this report was provided by AP.