In a significant diplomatic move, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine crisis. Following Modi's visit to Moscow, the two leaders released a joint statement advocating for diplomacy and the active involvement of both parties involved in the conflict.
The leaders highlighted the importance of ongoing security dialogues and committed to strengthening the regional security architecture. They also called for the immediate implementation of the UN resolution on ceasefire and the swift release of hostages in the Gaza Strip, stressing the necessity of effective humanitarian aid delivery in the region.
Despite the current complex geopolitical landscape, Putin and Modi affirmed that Russia-India relations remain strong and stable. They reiterated their commitment to enhancing their \"special and privileged strategic partnership,\" outlining nine key areas for closer cooperation, including nuclear energy, medicine, and more.
Economic collaboration was a major focus, with the leaders aiming to increase bilateral trade to over $100 billion by 2030. In the energy sector, both nations discussed new long-term contracts and expanded cooperation in coal. Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, who accompanied Modi on the trip, indicated that India is keen to deepen its energy ties with Russia, potentially securing deals with leading Russian oil firms and increasing coal imports.
The statement also mentioned ongoing dialogues on trade liberalization, with the possibility of a free-trade agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union and India. Additionally, efforts to settle bilateral accounts using national currencies were agreed upon.
During his visit, Modi was honored with the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle the First-Called, Russia's highest state honor, by President Putin. Furthermore, Putin extended an invitation to Modi for the upcoming BRICS Summit scheduled to take place in Kazan, Russia, this autumn.
Modi's state visit to Russia from July 8 to 9 marked his first trip to the country in five years, underscoring the enduring ties between the two nations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
