Putin, Modi meet ahead of official talks in Moscow

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
8 Jul 2024 23:28

Putin congratulated Modi on his recent re-election, praising his leadership and achievements in serving the Indian people's interests.

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India Prime Minister Narendra Modi, left, and Russia President Vladimir Putin shake hands during an informal meeting at Novo-Ogarevo state residence, outside Moscow, Russia, July 8, 2024. (AP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a friendly tea session at Putin's residence in Novo-Ogaryovo near Moscow, setting the stage for their official talks scheduled for Tuesday.

In what was described as a cordial atmosphere, Putin welcomed Modi and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to meet and discuss matters informally before their formal discussions the next day.

He congratulated Modi on his recent re-election, praising his leadership and achievements in serving the Indian people's interests.

"Once again, good afternoon. I'm very glad to see you. Our official talks will take place tomorrow, but today we can have a relaxed conversation about the same issues, but informally," Putin said.

During their conversation, Putin mentioned India's status as the world's largest democracy and commended the nation's high birth rate as a sign of stability and confidence among its people.

Modi, in response, thanked Putin for his warm words and the engaging program, while also mentioning the significance of India's recent elections.

"India is the largest democracy. It is considered the mother of democracy. For the first time in 65 years, the government was elected for the third consecutive term. The people of India have given me this chance to serve my country. I am confident that in the third term I will work three times harder," Modi added.

Earlier on Monday, Modi arrived at Moscow's Vnukovo-2 airport, where he was greeted by Russian officials, including First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov and Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko.

Modi's visit to Russia, his first in five years, extends until July 9 and underscores the strong strategic partnership between India and Russia.

This partnership has widened over the past decade to include areas such as energy, security, trade, investment, healthcare, education, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.

Official talks are scheduled for Tuesday, featuring both a small group discussion and an official breakfast dialogue.

Despite no joint press communication being planned, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that extensive discussions during these meetings would effectively convey their outcomes.

Tomorrow, Modi is scheduled to meet with the Indian community in Russia, pay respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and visit the Rosatom pavilion at an exhibition in Moscow.