Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday agreed to strengthen economic ties and ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in all sectors, including trade, fertilizers, space, security, and culture. The two leaders held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China, where they discussed regional and global issues, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the US tariffs.
The meeting between PM Modi and President Putin comes at a time when India is facing pressure from the US administration to reduce its purchase of Russian crude oil. The US has imposed steep tariffs on Indian exports, partly in response to New Delhi’s continued import of Russian crude. Despite this pressure, India and Russia have been strengthening their bilateral ties, with PM Modi and President Putin discussing ways to expand their energy cooperation and trade relations.
The meeting, which lasted for 50 minutes, also focused on strengthening economic ties and discussing regional and global issues, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
PM Modi and President Putin discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in all sectors, including trade, fertilizers, space, security, and culture. “Had an excellent meeting with President Putin on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Tianjin. Discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in all sectors, including trade, fertilizers, space, security, and culture,” PM Modi tweeted.
The two leaders also exchanged views on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with PM Modi emphasising the need for a peaceful resolution. “We have consistently discussed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. We welcome all recent peace efforts and hope that all parties will move forward constructively,” PM Modi stated. “We must find a way to end the conflict as soon as possible and establish lasting peace. This is the call of humanity.”
The meeting between PM Modi and President Putin underscores the strong Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia. The two leaders reaffirmed their support for further strengthening this partnership, which remains a vital pillar of regional and global stability.
Strengthening economic ties was a key focus of the meeting, with India and Russia aiming to deepen their cooperation in areas such as energy, finance, and trade. The two leaders expressed satisfaction with the sustained growth in bilateral ties in these areas.
PM Modi conveyed to President Putin that he was looking forward to receiving him in India for the 23rd Annual Summit later this year. The meeting between the two leaders demonstrates the strong bond between India and Russia, which remains unaffected by global pressures, including the US tariffs.
The bilateral meeting between PM Modi and President Putin sends a strong message about the resilience and depth of the India-Russia partnership, which continues to play a vital role in regional and global affairs.