Putin Praises Modi's Independent Foreign Policy and India's Remarkable Economic Growth During Strategic Call

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a meaningful telephone conversation, reaffirming the enduring strength of Moscow-New Delhi relations.

President Putin shared details of their exchange during a meeting with Russian Government officials, as documented on the Kremlin's official website.

The Russian leader emphasized the stability of Russian-Indian relations, characterizing them as "based on a national consensus." He particularly praised India's governance and economic performance under Prime Minister Modi's leadership.

"Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India is pursuing a completely independent, sovereign policy and, most importantly, is achieving very good results in the economic sphere. India is demonstrating the highest economic growth rates among the world's major economies," Putin remarked.

According to TV BRICS, the conversation occurred shortly after Putin had sent Modi a congratulatory telegram for his 75th birthday. In his message, the Russian President highlighted Modi's personal contribution to strengthening bilateral relations.

"You [Narendra Modi] are making a great personal contribution to strengthening the special privileged strategic partnership between our countries and developing mutually beneficial Russian-Indian cooperation in various areas," Putin stated.

The Russian leader also expressed confidence in the continuation of "constructive dialogue and joint work on topical issues on the regional and international agenda."

The Ministry of External Affairs notes that Russia has been a longstanding and time-tested partner for India. The development of India-Russia relations has been a key pillar of India's foreign policy since the signing of the "Declaration on the India-Russia Strategic Partnership" in October 2000 during President Putin's visit.

Subsequently, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

The Russian Embassy in India confirmed this meeting on X, stating, "Russia Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and EAM Dr S Jaishankar hold a meeting on the sidelines of the High-Level Week of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York."

Later, Jaishankar commented, "Good conversation with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia on the sidelines of #UNGA80. Useful discussion on bilateral ties, the Ukraine conflict and developments in the Middle East."