From Ukraine Issue to India-Russia Cooperation: Key Highlights of PM Modi-Putin Bilateral Talks

New Delhi, India: Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced the 22nd annual India-Russia summit on July 9 with Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the longstanding cooperation between India and Russia in averting shortages of essential commodities like food, fuel, and fertilizers for Indian citizens over recent years.

“This a meeting that is being keenly followed across the world,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 

PM Modi opened his remarks by stating, “I am confident that our ties will see further strengthening in coming years.”

Ukraine Conflict Mentioned

During the talks, PM Modi also raised concerns over the recent bombing of a children’s hospital in Ukraine, an action attributed to Russia.  He condemned the incident, highlighting the tragic loss of innocent lives in conflicts and terrorist attacks.

“The death of innocent children in war, conflict or a terrorist attack “is very painful,” PM said. 

Modi Condemns Terrorism in Moscow

Condemning terrorism in Moscow, PM Modi said, “In the last 40-50 years, India has been facing terrorism. We have been facing for 40 years, how horrible and disgusting terrorism is. So, when terror incidents occurred in Moscow, when terror incidents occurred in Dagestan, I can imagine how deep its pain would be. I strongly condemn all kinds of terrorism."

PM Modi Highlights Strong India-Russia Ties 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “I have had ties with Russia as well as you since the past 2.5 decades.”

"In about 10 years, we have met 17 times. In the last 25 years, we have had around 22 bilateral meetings. This reflects the depth of our relations,” he added. 

PM Modi and Putin Discuss Humanitarian Pain

While speaking, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Be it war, conflicts, terror attacks - everyone who believes in humanity is pained when there is loss of lives. But when innocent children are murdered, when we see innocent children dying, it is heart-wrenching. That pain is immense. I also held a detailed discussion with you over this.”

Emphasis on Dialogue for Peace:

PM Modi stressed the need for resolving conflicts through dialogue rather than on the battlefield, indicating a shift in perspectives following the discussions with President Putin.

Hope for Strengthened Ties:

PM Modi expressed confidence that the bilateral ties between India and Russia would continue to strengthen in the coming years, reflecting positively on the outcomes of their talks.

India-Russia Have Special Strategic Partnership: Putin 

Russian President Vladimir Putin told visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that their countries enjoyed a special strategic partnership and thanked him for his efforts to find a peaceful solution to the war in Ukraine.

PM Modi Lays Wreath at the Tomb

Earlier in the day, PM Modi laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow

PM Modi also visited the Atom Pavilion with President Putin. “Energy is an important pillar of cooperation between India and Russia and we are eager to further cement ties in this sector,” he said.