27 April 2015, 15:00 GMT
In an interview with Italian newspaper Il Corriere della Sera on the eve of his visit to Milan, the Russian leader admitted that he "tried not to make himself an idol."
He noted that there are many worthy examples of brilliant leaders in Russian and European history; however, it is necessary to act in accordance with the present day circumstances.
"I try, or rather I am motivated by the interests of the Russian people in my work on the basis of all [the experience] that has been amassed over the past times. I act in accordance with the conditions of our present day life and, of course, I try to develop a medium-term and long-term strategy for our economy, policy, first and foremost, our domestic one, and our international agenda."
"Being honest with yourself and the people that have entrusted you this work is the most important thing," the Russian leader concluded.
