Putin Praises PM Modi's Leadership In Informal Moscow Meeting

Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his official residence in Novo-Ogaryovo on Monday night. During their private engagement, Putin praised Modi for his contributions to India's progress.

"I would like to congratulate you on your reelection as prime minister. I think this is not an accident, but the result of your work over many years," Putin said during their informal meeting.

Modi expressed gratitude to Putin for hosting him at Novo-Ogaryovo in a post on X. He mentioned looking forward to their talks the next day, which he believed would strengthen the friendship between India and Russia. The Ministry of External Affairs described the event as a meeting of two close friends and trusted partners, sharing photographs of the meeting.

India-Russia Friendship

During their conversation, Putin highlighted Modi's dedication to serving his people. "You have devoted your entire life to serving the Indian people, and they can feel it," Putin said. Modi responded with a smile, saying, "You are right, I have only one goal: It is the people and my country." The Tass news agency reported these exchanges.

After landing in Moscow, Modi was received by Russia's First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov at Vnukovo-II airport. This visit marked Modi's first trip since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. He aimed to hold summit talks with Putin on Tuesday, signalling a broader geopolitical context.

Private Engagement

The two leaders took a stroll around Putin’s residence in Novo-Ogaryovo. Putin showed Modi around and gave him a drive in an electric car. They mostly communicated through interpreters but had a brief conversation in English while walking to the garden, according to another Tass report.

Modi recollected the recent elections in India during their tea conversation at the residence outside Moscow. He mentioned that "the people of India gave him a chance to serve the Motherland." Putin acknowledged this by saying, "The result is obvious." He also noted that India firmly ranks as the world’s third-largest economy.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

In his departure statement, Modi expressed his intention to deepen bilateral partnerships in futuristic areas. He emphasised that stronger ties between India and Russia would greatly benefit both nations' people. Modi also stated that India seeks to play a supportive role for a peaceful and stable region.

The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that it was an occasion for the two leaders to cherish and celebrate India-Russia friendship. The private engagement underscored the close relationship between the two countries and their leaders.

As they held an informal meeting over tea, Putin remarked on Modi's energetic nature and ability to achieve results for India. "You have your own ideas. You are a very energetic person, able to achieve results in the interests of India and the Indian people," Putin said.

The visit by Prime Minister Modi aimed at reinforcing bilateral ties comes amid significant geopolitical developments. The discussions between Modi and Putin are expected to further cement the bonds of friendship between India and Russia.

The private engagement between President Putin and Prime Minister Modi showcased their mutual respect and commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. This visit is seen as crucial for future cooperation between the two nations.