PM Modi, President Putin Reaffirm India-Russia Strategic Partnership at SCO Meeting

Tianjin | New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed the depth of India-Russia ties on 1 September during a meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin. 

President Putin addressed PM Modi as his “dear friend” before offering him a ride in his armoured Aurus limousine, a gesture that underscored the warmth of their relationship.

“Even in the most difficult situations, India and Russia have always walked shoulder to shoulder,” PM Modi said during his talks with the Russian leader. “Our close cooperation is important not only for the people of both countries but also for global peace, stability and prosperity.”

PM Modi also highlighted that “140 crore Indians are eagerly waiting to welcome you for our 23rd Summit in December this year,” while describing the meeting as “an occasion to remember.” 

He emphasised that the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership with Russia remained “a vital pillar of regional and global stability.”

President Putin also said: “Dear Mr Prime Minister, dear friend. Russia and India have maintained special relations for decades, friendly and trusting. This is the foundation for the development of our relations in the future.”

The discussions covered trade, fertilisers, space, security and culture. PM Modi later posted on X, saying: “Had an excellent meeting with President Putin on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Tianjin. Discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in all sectors, including trade, fertilisers, space, security and culture. We exchanged views on regional and global developments, including the peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine. Our Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership remains a vital pillar of regional and global stability.”

PM Modi also reiterated his call for peace in Ukraine. “We’ve been having regular discussions on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. We welcome all the recent efforts towards establishing peace. We hope that all parties shall proceed constructively. A way must be found to end this conflict and establish lasting peace. This is the aspiration of the entire humanity.”

Here it should be noted that China and India remain two of the largest buyers of Russian crude oil despite pressure from Western sanctions, with former US President Donald Trump imposing additional tariffs on India over the purchases. However, there has been no indication that either country intends to reduce imports.

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