MAGADAN, November 22 (RIA Novosti) - President Vladimir Putin said it was too early to talk about the results of recent government reshuffles but added that newly appointed First Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov had gotten down to work with a lot of enthusiasm.
Putin said the reshuffles had been prompted by Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov.
"Fradkov had repeatedly insisted on increasing the number of his deputies because he said the original lineup of his government did not allow Cabinet leaders to effectively address the tasks they faced," Putin said.
Putin said Medvedev, Ivanov, who also serves as defense minister, and Sergei Kirienko, the former presidential envoy to the Volga federal district who was transferred to the government, were people of high abilities. "Time will show how they can use them," the president said.
Putin said Medvedev had already drafted specific proposals on how to implement national projects, including in welfare and agriculture.
The president said Ivanov had also taken up his duties with a great deal of energy, and would begin a tour of the country Tuesday.
Putin said various options had been under consideration, including forming a special body. However, the president said, after a series of consultations, it was decided to introduce the post of deputy prime minister to hold responsibility over this area.
