Lagatar24 Desk
NEW DELHI: Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India shortly, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed on Tuesday. While exact dates remain undecided, the visit is expected to strengthen the longstanding strategic partnership between the two nations.
Peskov highlighted the significance of the upcoming visit, stating, “After two visits by Prime Minister Modi to Russia, we are now preparing for President Putin’s visit to India, and we look forward to finalizing the dates soon.”
Russia’s Role in India-China Relations
Peskov also commented on Russia’s position regarding India-China relations. Referring to the recent bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Kazan, Russia, Peskov remarked, “It was encouraging to see the two leaders meet. As friends of both New Delhi and Beijing, we are ready to contribute in every possible way to normalizing relations between the two countries. However, this initiative was entirely bilateral, with no interference from us.”
On India’s Sovereignty and Quad Participation
Acknowledging India’s active participation in Quad and its independent foreign policy, Peskov said, “India values its cooperation with Russia while pursuing its interests in various directions. India is a sovereign nation, and we respect its decisions.”
He further criticized alleged U.S. pressure on India, stating, “India faces unprecedented pressure from the U.S., which seeks to dictate policies to Indian banks and institutions. This is an attempt to impose a new colonial system, but we are confident that India and Russia will work together to overcome such pressures.”
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
India and Russia have held several high-level meetings this year focusing on trade, energy, connectivity, and the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Last week, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov met with PM Modi to discuss enhancing cooperation in key sectors.
During the BRICS Summit in Kazan, PM Modi and President Putin engaged in talks, emphasizing the importance of resolving the Ukraine conflict peacefully and strengthening their “privileged strategic partnership.”
Peskov reiterated Russia’s commitment to expanding bilateral ties, stating that the upcoming visit by President Putin will further enhance the partnership between the two countries.
