India-Russia friendship like a Pole Star: PM Narendra Modi
New Delhi, Dec 5: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin in New Delhi for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, describing the partnership as one that has “stood the test of time” and continues to reach “historic milestones.”
Welcoming Putin earlier in the day, PM Modi said he was “delighted” to receive the Russian leader, adding in a post on X, “India-Russia friendship is a time tested one that has greatly benefitted our people.”
The PM also presented Putin with a copy of the Bhagavad Gita in Russian translation, noting that its teachings “give inspiration to millions across the world.”
During the joint press statement after delegation-level talks, PM Modi recalled that “exactly 25 years ago, President Putin laid the foundation of our Strategic Partnership,” which was elevated to a “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership” in 2010.
He hailed Putin’s role over the past two and a half decades, saying, “His leadership has taken our relations to new heights under all circumstances… I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Putin, my friend, for this deep friendship and unwavering commitment to India.”
The Prime Minister said that despite global uncertainties, the India–Russia partnership has remained steady. “Through all this, the India-Russia friendship has remained like a pole star,” he said.
PM Modi said that the two leaders discussed ways to advance cooperation across sectors, noting that a new Economic Cooperation Programme until 2030 has been agreed upon to make bilateral trade “diversified, balanced, and sustainable.”
On connectivity initiatives, the PM said both sides would push forward “with renewed energy” on the International North-South Transport Corridor, the Northern Sea Route, and the Chennai-Vladivostok maritime link.
He welcomed new collaboration to train Indian seafarers in polar waters, calling it an opportunity that would boost employment and deepen Arctic cooperation.
PM Modi also highlighted progress in joint manufacturing, including shipbuilding, fertilizers, and civil nuclear energy.
He called energy security “a strong and important pillar” of the partnership and emphasised the importance of cooperation in critical minerals for “secure and diversified supply chains” supporting clean energy and high-tech industries.
Describing people-to-people ties as a “vital pillar,” the PM announced that India will soon introduce a free 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian nationals.
He said two new agreements on manpower mobility had been signed, adding, “Manpower mobility will connect our peoples and create new strengths and opportunities for both countries.”
On global issues, PM Modi reiterated India’s stand on Ukraine, “India has always advocated for peace… We welcome all efforts for a peaceful and lasting solution. India has always been ready to contribute and will continue to do so.”
Referring to the recent terror attacks in Pahalgam and Moscow’s Crocus City Hall, he said, “The root of all these incidents is the same. India firmly believes that terrorism is a direct attack on the values of humanity and that global unity against it is our greatest strength.”
Concluding his remarks, the PM said he was confident the India-Russia partnership would remain resilient: “Our friendship will give us the strength to face global challenges in the times to come.”
He thanked Putin and his delegation for visiting India, adding, “Once again, I thank you and your entire delegation for your visit to India.”
