Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a grand presidential dinner hosted in his honour at New Delhi's Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday, invoked Prime Minister Narendra Modi's signature slogan to encapsulate the spirit of bilateral relations. His two-day state visit was marked by high-level diplomacy and symbolic gestures.
"Go Together, Grow Together": A Slogan for Partnership
Addressing the gathering, President Putin highlighted the deep-rooted cooperation between the two nations. He explicitly referenced the Hindi phrase "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" (Go Together, Grow Together), stating it perfectly reflected the true nature of the Russia-India relationship. He emphasised that Moscow views this bond not just as strategic but also as fundamentally people-centric.
"I know in India you say 'Go Together, Grow Together', which truly reflects the nature and character of Russia-India relations," Putin said. He reaffirmed a steadfast commitment to deepening this engagement for the mutual prosperity of both nations' citizens.
Focus on Eurasian Security and Bilateral Talks
Putin's speech also outlined a broader vision of collaboration. He pointed to joint efforts within the common Eurasian space aimed at fostering a universal atmosphere built on the pillars of peace, trust, and security for all countries.
"We are cooperating on our common Eurasian space to build a true atmosphere of security, of trust and of peace for all the countries of the world," the Russian leader stated. He expressed absolute confidence that the "special and privileged strategic partnership" would continue to expand, ensuring future well-being.
The visit's agenda was packed with significant events. It included a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in-depth bilateral talks between the two leaders, and Putin's participation in the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. Prime Minister Modi welcomed him with a private dinner, further solidifying the personal diplomacy between them.
Gifts and Gestures: Strengthening Cultural Ties
The diplomacy was accompanied by meaningful cultural exchanges. Prime Minister Modi presented President Putin with a curated set of gifts representing India's diverse heritage. The gifts included:
- Assam Black Tea and a Murshidabad silver tea set.
- A finely handcrafted silver horse.
- A marble chess set from Agra.
- Kashmiri saffron.
- A Russian translation of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita.
These presents underscored the depth of the civilizational connection between India and Russia, extending beyond politics and into the realm of shared cultural appreciation. The visit concluded with both sides expressing a reinforced commitment to a future of collaborative growth and shared strategic interests.
