India, Russia strengthen ties

The issue of American sanctions on Russian exports that has worried countries like India was not mentioned in the statement issued by the ministry of external affairs.

In a move to cement the decades-old Indo-Russian strategic ties despite India’s growing proximity to the United States and Russia’s soft stance towards Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held their first informal summit in the Black Sea resort of Sochi on Monday during which Modi said the strategic partnership between India and Russia has now evolved into a “privileged strategic partnership” which he termed a “major achievement”.

The two leaders discussed “major international issues”, agreed “to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations”, agreed “on the importance of building a multipolar world order”, decided to strengthen coordination in the IndoPacific region and also agreed “to institute a Strategic Economic Dialogue” to identify “greater synergy in trade and investment”. The reference to a “multipolar” world order—at a time of extremely strong Indo-US ties — is being seen as a tight rope walk and delicate balancing act by New Delhi on its ties with the US on one hand, and with Russia on the other.

Addressing his host, PM Modi said, “We share long-standing ties; we hold bilateral meetings. I would like to thank President Putin for organising this informal meeting and inviting me. This initiative is yet another step in developing our relations.” Praising Putin, he said, “Being a real friend, you never forget about me. Last year you invited me to the St Petersburg International Economic Forum. It was a privilege to be invited by you as a guest of honour. I am grateful to you for this.”