Vladimir Putin's Prophetic 2002 NDTV Interview: Insights on Pakistan, Terrorism, and Global Relations

Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks to NDTV's Vishnu Som in an interview in 2002

New Delhi:

In a revealing interview with NDTV 23 years ago, Russian President Vladimir Putin made remarks that now appear prophetic about today's geopolitical landscape. His insights ranged from speculations about Osama bin Laden's possible hideout in Pakistan to questioning the US claims regarding weapons of mass destruction in Iraq.

In 2002, when the US-led coalition invaded Iraq claiming that President Saddam Hussein was concealing "weapons of mass destruction" (WMD), Putin offered a measured perspective on the situation.

"We share the position of our US partners that we must ensure Iraq is not developing weapons of mass destruction. Although the world has changed, the international instruments previously used can still be employed and adapted to current circumstances," Putin explained to NDTV.

However, he emphasized, "We should not forget about other global hotspots that pose certain threats." He specifically highlighted Pakistan, which had long implemented state-sponsored terrorism against India.

"We have concerns about weapons of mass destruction in Pakistan. We need clarity regarding their location, status, condition, and future. There are other regions we are equally concerned about as Iraq," the Russian President stated during the December 2002 interview.

This Kremlin interview serves as a reminder of Pakistan's rogue state status. Putin explicitly expressed concerns about Pakistan's nuclear technology proliferation. Remarkably, just two years later, AQ Khan, Pakistan's nuclear program architect, admitted to operating a clandestine network for a decade.

Putin, who remains President of the world's largest country, is arriving in New Delhi today for discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi covering defense and trade matters.

When asked if Osama bin Laden might be hiding in Pakistan, Putin's response foreshadowed the 2011 outcome when US Navy SEALS eliminated the terrorist at his Abbottabad hideout during Operation Neptune Spear.

"We maintain friendship with India not against anybody, but precisely to continue our friendly relationship," he said.

"Pakistan's negative influence in neighboring Afghanistan, including Taliban support, is well-known. It's obvious that Osama bin Laden not only actively cooperated with the Taliban but was integral to the system," Putin noted.

On China And India

Despite India-China border tensions, Putin consistently advocated for strategic relationships between India, China, and Russia. When questioned about this strategic vision, Putin told NDTV, "China is our neighbor and India is a major international partner. We should develop bilateral relations with each country as they are paramount for Russia."

"We are convinced of the need for positive development of relations between Russia and India, Russia and China, and China and India. All parties within this triangle have interest in such development," he added.

The Russian President cautioned against rushing without proper preparation.

"We should proceed step by step, developing harmonious relations and preparing necessary conditions. Our overall aspiration should be developing relationships as positively as possible."