India, Russia likely to make a strong statement on terrorism during PM visit

New Delhi, Dec. 6 (ANI): India and Russia are likely to make a strong statement against terrorism and the threat posed to Central Asia and Afghanistan by rising Islamic fundamentalism during Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's three-day visit to Moscow between Sunday and Tuesday.

Dr. Singh has said that he hopes to use his trip to the Russian capital to reinforce the India-Russia Strategic Partnership, as he believes that this is a factor that will ensure both peace and stability in an evolving International situation.

Prime Minister Singh will be meeting Russian President Dmitri Medvedev and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.

"The India-Russia partnership is based on the solid foundation of a long-standing friendship, deep mutual trust and a strong convergence of Interests," Singh said.

Earlier, in an interaction with Russian media here, Singh described "Russia is a big power and could control the conduct of Pakistan."

Both countries are expected to review the status of their bilateral relationship in key areas of defence, civil nuclear technology and hydrocarbons.

Global and regional issues such as the recovery of global economy, energy security, climate change , nuclear disarmament and reform of international institutions will also feature in the talks in Moscow.

The Indian Prime Minister will also interact with the India-Russia CEOs' Forum, which is led by Reliance Group Chairman Mukesh Ambani.

A meeting with Russian scholars and intellectuals is also scheduled. The trip concludes on Tuesday. By Naveen Kapoor (ANI)