Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday hailed India as a 'reliable partner' and criticized Western interference in India-Russia relations, asserting that Moscow is determined to expand economic engagement with New Delhi. In an interaction with heads of leading global news agencies, including PTI, Putin lauded India's economic growth and its independent foreign policy.
Putin's Remarks on India-Russia Ties
Putin described New Delhi as a 'reliable partner' and emphasized the long-standing friendship between the two nations. He praised India's economic progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and noted that Russia views India as a key player in the multipolar world order. The Russian leader stressed that Moscow is committed to deepening cooperation in trade, energy, and defense sectors.
Criticism of Western Interference
Putin sharply criticized Western nations for what he called 'detrimental' interference in India-Russia relations. He accused the West of trying to undermine the strategic partnership between Moscow and New Delhi through sanctions and diplomatic pressure. 'Some countries are attempting to drive a wedge between India and Russia, but our relationship is based on mutual trust and respect,' Putin said.
Economic Engagement and Future Prospects
The Russian president highlighted the growing economic ties between the two countries, particularly in energy and trade. He noted that bilateral trade has increased significantly and expressed confidence in further expansion. Putin also mentioned joint projects in nuclear energy, space exploration, and infrastructure development as areas of future collaboration.
Putin's remarks come amid heightened global tensions over the Ukraine conflict and Western efforts to isolate Russia. India has maintained a neutral stance, calling for dialogue and diplomacy while continuing to import Russian oil and maintain defense ties. The Russian leader's comments reaffirm the resilience of India-Russia relations despite external pressures.
