Russian President Dmitry Medvedev says he would like to run for a second term as president, but is reluctant to compete for the position against his predecessor, Vladimir Putin.

Mr. Medvedev told the Financial Times Monday that a competition for the presidency between himself and Prime Minister Putin would not be “the best scenario” for the country. He also denied a growing rift between them, saying they represent the same political force.

Mr. Putin previously served two terms as president before Mr. Medvedev took over the position in 2008. Neither man has officially declared his intentions for the March 2012 elections, although many expect Mr. Putin to reclaim the presidency after Mr. Medvedev's term expires.

The Russian president also said he would like to see U.S. President Barack Obama re-elected next year to lead the United States for another four-year term. Mr. Medvedev said relations between the two countries have improved during the Obama administration.