Vladimir Putin endorses India’s rise on the global stage, calls it ‘authoritative centre of multipolar world’
Ahead of his visit to India, Russian President Vladimir Putin called New Delhi one of the authoritative centres of the multipolar world whose foreign policy philosophy and priorities are close to Moscow.
I am convinced that, relying on strong traditions of friendship and mutual understanding, we will jointly continue to further develop Russia-India ties, he added.
“Next week, I will visit India. During talks with Prime Minister Modi, we will outline new large-scale initiatives for the further development of the specially privileged Russian-Indian relationship, the Russian-Indian strategic partnership,” he added.
The Russian President further said that this partnership brings real mutual benefit to both states.
‘Bilateral trade shows good dynamics’
“Bilateral trade shows good dynamics; ties are actively developing in the energy sector, innovation, space, and the production of coronavirus vaccines and medicines. There is extensive cooperation in the defence sector, including through the creation of joint ventures,” he added.
Putin will arrive in India on December 6 for the 21st India-Russia Annual Summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
During the summit, the leaders will review the state and prospects of bilateral relations between the two nations and will discuss ways to further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.
India, Russia to ink AK-203 deal during Putin’s visit
During this high-profile visit, India and Russia will are scheduled to ink the deal on supplying 7.5 lakh AK-203 assault rifles.
Government sources told ANI that all necessary clearances have been done including the final approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security.
The meeting between Putin and Modi is also likely to see the presentation of the S-400 air defence system to India which has already started arriving in India in parts.
The last India-Russia annual summit took place in 2019 during the visit of PM Modi to Russia’s Vladivostok and the annual summit could not take place in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic situation.
