Underlining the strong ties between India and Russia, Russian President Vladimir Putin told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that their relationship is so strong that they do not need any translation.
The two leaders had met in Kazan, Russia on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit. PM Modi and Putin shared a handshake and a hug after which they held talks.
“Our relationship is so strong that you will understand me without any translation,” said President Putin, as laughter broke out in the room at the Governor’s Palace.
He further said, “In Kazan we must make a number of important decisions aimed at further improving the activities of the association and strengthening multifaceted co-operation within its framework. And we greatly value our co-operation in this area, I mean that our states stood at the origins of the association’s creation.”
President Putin appreciated Russia and India’s “privileged strategic partnership” and promised to further enhance ties.
“Interaction between legislative bodies is strengthening. Our foreign ministers are in constant contact. Trade turnover is in good condition. And the next meeting of the intergovernmental commission is scheduled for November 12 in New Delhi,” the president said.
“Major projects are being developed consistently, and we welcome your decision to open the Consulate General of India in Kazan. Expanding India’s diplomatic presence in Russia will contribute to the further development of bilateral relations,” said Putin.
Modi reiterates India’s stance of peaceful resolution
Speaking about the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, PM Modi reiterated the stance of the Indian government on a peaceful resolution between the two countries.
“We are in constant touch on the issue of ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. As I said earlier, we believe that problems should be resolved in a peaceful manner,” said the prime minister.
Watch: BRICS Summit: BRICS Not Anti-West, Says Putin
“We fully support the early return of peace and stability. All our efforts give priority to humanity. India is ready to provide all possible co-operation in times to come,” PM Modi added.
The initiative taken by India to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine has received praise from several European countries as well as the United States.
(With inputs from agencies)