Modi says Putin talks ‘ extremely productive’
Bonhomie evident at Sochi summit ‘ Multipolar’ reference a signal to US
In a move to cement the decades- old India- Russia 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 town of Sochi on Monday, during which Mr Modi said the strategic partnership between India and Russia had now evolved into a “privileged strategic partnership” after their “extremely productive” discussions, which he termed a “major achievement”.
◗ Mr Modi recalled his first visit to Russia with then Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee in 2001 and said Mr Putin was the first world leader whom he met after becoming Gujarat chief minister
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 tightrope 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, Mr 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 President Putin, he said: “Being a real friend, you never forget about me. Last year you invited me to
Sochi, May 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said he saw a different Vladimir Putin who got emotional while talking about the students of Sirius Educational Centre — a unique educational centre set up on the initiative of the Russian President.
Mr Modi and Mr Putin visited the educational centre and interacted with more than 700 students.
Talking to students, Mr Modi said he was thankful to his friend President Putin who provided him an opportunity to meet the bright stars of Russia, referring to the students of the centre.
“I was with my friend for the whole day today. When he spoke about the kids ( of the centre) he was emotionally involved. I saw dreams in his eyes. I saw a different person. I saw a Putin who was different from the President,” Mr Modi said as he held the hand of Mr Putin who was smiling.
He asked the students how many of them were willing to visit India.
In response, all the students raised their hands, bringing a smile on the face of Modi who invited them to visit India and interact with Indian students. He also promised that he will spend time with them in India.
Later, the students took the autographs of the two leaders. The Sirius Educational Centre is a unique educational centre set up by the Talent and Success Educational Fund in 2015 on the initiative of President Putin and based at the Sochi Olympic facilities.
The main purpose of the project is to identify, develop and provide professional support for children demonstrating gifts in technical creativity, art, the natural sciences and sport. — PTI