Image credit: AP
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his eagerness to visit India in early December for the annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Speaking at the international Valdai Discussion Forum in Sochi, attended by security and geopolitical experts from 140 countries, including India, Putin described Modi as his ‘dear friend’ and a ‘trustworthy partner’.
“I am looking forward to my trip in early December. And I highly await my meeting with my dear friend, with our trustworthy partner with Prime Minister Modi,” Putin said during the forum held at the Black Sea resort.
Highlighting the historical depth of India-Russia ties, Putin emphasised that the relationship has been special since the days of the Soviet Union and India’s struggle for independence.
“India knows, remembers, appreciates that. And we appreciate the fact that India never forgets that. And so our relations are developing,” he noted.
Putin further acknowledged that India and Russia will soon mark 15 years since announcing their specialised strategic privileged partnership, adding that the two nations have never faced any interstate conflicts or differences.
Mutually Beneficial Trade and Defence Cooperation
The Russian President lauded Prime Minister Modi as a wise and reasonable leader, deeply oriented toward the nation’s interests. He underscored the priority of building effective and mutually beneficial trade ties between the two countries.
Putin also highlighted the strength of security cooperation, including joint production of advanced modern arms, which he said demonstrates the trust India and Russia have developed over the years.
Putin warned that India would not allow the United States to humiliate it over Russian oil imports.
“Will India give up its energy resources? If so, it will incur certain losses. Estimates vary; some say it could be around $9-10 billion. But if it doesn’t refuse, sanctions will be imposed, and the loss will be the same. So why refuse if it also carries domestic political costs? Indian people will never allow themselves to be humiliated by anyone. I know Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he will also not make any such decisions,” he said, as quoted by ANI.
He added that India’s decision to maintain energy imports from Russia will balance any potential losses from punitive US tariffs and enhance its prestige as a sovereign nation, according to PTI.
Putin’s remarks ahead of his visit underline the enduring strength of India-Russia relations, encompassing trade, defence, and energy cooperation.
The upcoming summit in December is expected to further deepen strategic ties and reinforce mutual trust between the two nations.
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