Strengthening India-Russia Ties: Modi Highlights Strategic Partnership
Modi Praises India-Russia Friendship
On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his appreciation for the friendship between India and Russia, asserting that this bond will empower both nations to tackle global challenges in the future. He noted that fifteen years ago, in 2010, their partnership was elevated to a special privileged strategic partnership. Over the past twenty-five years, President Putin has nurtured this relationship through his leadership and vision, consistently elevating their ties to new heights. Modi conveyed heartfelt gratitude to President Putin for his unwavering commitment to India and their deep friendship.
Energy Security and Strategic Cooperation
Modi emphasized that energy security has been a robust and vital pillar of the India-Russia partnership. Their long-standing collaboration in civilian nuclear energy has played a crucial role in realizing their shared clean energy goals. He affirmed the continuation of this beneficial cooperation, highlighting the importance of their collaboration in critical minerals to ensure a secure and diverse global supply chain. This partnership will significantly support clean energy, high-tech manufacturing, and new-age industries.
Strengthening Make in India Initiative
The Prime Minister pointed out that their deep collaboration in shipbuilding has the potential to bolster the Make in India initiative. This serves as another excellent example of their fruitful cooperation, which will promote employment, skill development, and regional connectivity. He reflected on the numerous ups and downs the world has faced over the past eight decades, noting that amidst various challenges, the India-Russia friendship has remained steadfast like a polar star.
Advocating Peace in Ukraine
Modi reiterated India's consistent advocacy for peace regarding the Ukraine issue, welcoming all efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful and lasting resolution. He affirmed India's readiness to contribute and emphasized that enhancing economic cooperation between India and Russia is a priority, with an agreement on an economic cooperation program set until 2030. He also highlighted that both nations are working towards a free trade agreement (FTA) with the Eurasian Economic Union.
Joint Fight Against Terrorism
The Prime Minister clearly stated that India and Russia have stood shoulder to shoulder in the fight against terrorism for a long time. Whether it was the terrorist attack in Pahalgam or the cowardly assault on Crocus City Hall, the roots of these incidents are the same. India firmly believes that terrorism is a direct assault on human values, and global unity against it is our greatest strength. Both countries are closely collaborating on platforms such as the United Nations, G-20, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and they will continue their dialogue and cooperation on these fronts. Modi also mentioned that in October this year, millions of devotees received blessings from the sacred relics of Lord Buddha at the International Buddhist Forum held in Kalmykia. He expressed happiness about the upcoming launch of a 30-day free e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian citizens.