New Delhi, Dec 5: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the warm and cordial welcome extended to the visiting Russian delegation, stating that the two leaders have developed “close working and personal contact” and jointly oversee progress across all key areas of the India–Russia partnership. He made the remarks after comprehensive talks with PM Modi at Hyderabad House during the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit.
Putin said that both his formal discussions with the Indian delegation and his private dinner meeting with PM Modi took place in a “constructive and friendly atmosphere,” reflecting the depth of the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between the two nations. He noted that the leaders regularly communicate and closely monitor bilateral strategic initiatives and flagship projects.
During the summit, both sides reviewed the full spectrum of India–Russia relations, reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening cooperation in defence, security, trade, energy, science and technology, culture, and people-to-people ties. The leaders also exchanged views on major regional and global issues.
Putin highlighted that the joint statement adopted during the summit outlines priority areas for expanding cooperation across political, economic, humanitarian, and cultural domains. Several MoUs were signed in sectors such as trade, mobility, maritime cooperation, health, food safety, fertilizers, academia, media collaboration, and cultural exchange.
The Russian President noted that bilateral trade reached a record USD 64–65 billion last year and expressed confidence that the figure could rise to USD 100 billion by 2030 under a newly agreed Programme for Economic Cooperation. He welcomed progress on establishing a free trade zone between India and the Eurasian Economic Union and praised the rapid transition to national currencies, now accounting for 96% of bilateral transactions.
Putin also highlighted cooperation in energy, transport corridors, pharmaceuticals, advanced technology, and space, while emphasizing strong cultural, educational, and youth exchanges. He said both countries share convergent views on major global issues and continue to work together within BRICS, SCO, and other multilateral platforms to support a more just and multipolar world order.
