Russia and India Leaders Discuss Partnership Ahead of Upcoming Summit
In a recent meeting ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening their strategic partnership. The talks highlighted the ongoing cooperation between Russia and India, which both leaders emphasized as crucial in fostering a multipolar world and enhancing ties in various sectors.
President Putin expressed his pleasure at meeting with Prime Minister Modi again, noting that the SCO is committed to enhancing relations among countries in the Global South and East. He acknowledged the “specially privileged strategic partnership” between Russia and India, emphasizing Modi’s personal commitment to advancing this relationship. Putin also referred to a message relayed by India’s Foreign Minister, S. Jaishankar, during a recent meeting in Moscow, affirming his agreement with its content.
The leaders noted the upcoming celebration of the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between their countries, along with preparations for the BRICS summit scheduled for September in New Delhi. Putin mentioned that while bilateral trade had seen a slight decline last year, it has already risen by 2.6 percent in the first half of this year. He highlighted the successes of the recent Intergovernmental Commission meeting held in Moscow.
Humanitarian initiatives were also on the agenda. Putin praised the increase in Indian students studying in Russia, which has grown sevenfold in the past decade, reaching nearly 40,000. Cultural exchanges, including regular festivals celebrating both Indian and Russian cultures, were noted, with the next festival planned for 2027 in India. Tourism is also flourishing, with expectations of a 16 percent growth by 2025.
Prime Minister Modi reciprocated the sentiments, reflecting on his successful visit to India last year, where they held a business forum that significantly boosted business relations between their countries. He affirmed the ongoing diligence of both teams in implementing summit decisions and stressed the importance of prioritizing the national interests of both nations.
During the meeting, Modi reiterated India’s support for peace efforts in Ukraine, stressing the importance of resolving conflicts through dialogue. He pointed out that the ongoing war is a setback for humanity, urging a collective move toward peace. Modi expressed hope that their discussions today would lead to fruitful outcomes as India prepares to host the upcoming BRICS summit.
Both leaders expressed enthusiasm for their collaboration and commitment to advancing their bilateral relationship, setting the stage for further interaction and cooperation on multiple fronts.
