Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed Moscow's strong partnership with New Delhi, saying attempts by Western countries to pressure India over its relationship with Russia are counterproductive and harmful to international relations.
Speaking during an interaction with heads of leading global news agencies, Putin praised India's economic progress and its independent approach to foreign policy. He also expressed confidence that economic cooperation between the two countries will continue to expand in the years ahead, per a report by NDTV.
Putin praises India's economic growth
Highlighting India's growing global influence, Putin said bilateral trade between the two nations is expected to reach new milestones.
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"India is among the world's major economies and is currently demonstrating an impressive rate of economic growth," Putin remarked, expressing confidence that bilateral trade between the two nations is on track to hit a USD 100 billion milestone in the coming years.
Responding to a question, the Russian president credited India's growth to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the efforts of the Indian government.
"India is one of the leading economies of the world that has showed the highest rate of economic growth. This is not something that comes out of the blue. This is result of the hardwork that the government of India has been doing under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," Putin told NDTV.
India free to pursue its national interests
Per NDTV, Putin stressed that India would continue to make decisions based on its own national interests and that New Delhi's engagement with other countries does not affect its ties with Moscow.
"We are glad that India is developing its relations with all countries it thinks important for its national interests," Putin said when asked whether India's deep alignment with Washington creates structural friction for Russia.
Referring to efforts by some Western nations to influence India's relationship with Russia, Putin said, "Everyone has understood that pressure on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India is detrimental for international relations."
Russia calls India a reliable partner
The Russian president described India as a trusted and dependable ally, adding that Moscow sees no adverse impact from New Delhi's relations with other countries.
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"India is a great nation and democracy and Russia will continue to expand its relations with it," he said.
Putin also reiterated that Russia considers India a "reliable partner" and remains committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation across sectors.
