Russian President Vladimir Putin commended India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their steadfast commitment to an autonomous foreign policy, tailored to serve their national interests, during a gathering with students in Kaliningrad, Russia. Putin acknowledged the complexities of maintaining such independence in today's global landscape but affirmed India's right to do so, given its substantial population of one and a half billion.
In addition to praising India's foreign policy stance, Putin cautioned against external interference, particularly from Western powers, urging them to refrain from meddling in India's internal affairs for political leverage. He emphasized that such manipulative tactics hold no promise for the future.
Furthermore, Putin expressed confidence in India's reliability as a dependable partner for Russia, highlighting the strong bilateral ties between the two nations. He underscored Russia's significant investment in India, signaling Moscow's unwavering faith in the partnership, which he described as just the beginning of greater cooperation.
Putin lauded India's 'Make in India' initiative, acknowledging its transformative impact under Prime Minister Modi's leadership. He recognized the initiative's role in fostering economic growth and innovation within India.
Moreover, Putin celebrated India's rich cultural heritage, describing it as captivating, diverse, and vibrant. He noted the special bond between Russia and India, exemplified by the regular broadcast of Indian films on Russian national television channels—a testament to the cultural affinity and shared values between the two nations.
