Russia's State Duma, the lower house of parliament, on Tuesday approved Dmitry Medvedev as prime minister in the new government.

Lawmakers voted 299-144 for Medvedev's appointment. He was backed by two of the four Duma factions, namely the United Russia and the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia. Communists and A Just Russia lawmakers voted against.

In his speech to lawmakers, Medvedev said the new government will focus on economic and social issues.

He also said he would be prepared for dialogue with all political parties when becoming the new prime minister.

Before the vote, Russia's new President Vladimir Putin introduced Medvedev to the lawmakers according to usual practice. The president described his nominee as an experienced political figure, who stood behind significant reforms in the country.

Medvedev will have a week to submit to the president the composition of the new cabinet, as well as candidates for the posts of deputy prime ministers and federal ministers.

Putin on Monday submitted to the State Duma a bill, nominating former President Medvedev as prime minister.

Medvedev focused during his presidency on political reform, economic modernization, anti-corruption, promotion of innovation of science and technology, among others.

Under the Russian laws, to be approved as prime minister, the nominee needs to collect the majority of votes in the 450-seat State Duma, which means to garner at least 226 votes.