Putin thanked Western researchers for being involved in programs to save the Amur tigers. "First of all, we must thank our colleagues, Americans, European colleagues for being involved with this during a difficult time for Russia when no-one was paying any attention to this" Putin said. In eight years as president, the popular Putin burnished his image with televised appearances that painted him as a tough, healthy and energetic young leader eager to take on new challenges. Full Article at Malaysia Sun