New Delhi, Dec 5 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday reaffirmed India’s firm stance on peace during the annual bilateral summit with visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing that India is not neutral but stands unequivocally on the side of peace amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Welcoming Putin to the national capital, PM Modi described the visit as “very historic” and warmly addressed the Russian President as “my friend.”
In his opening televised remarks at New Delhi’s Hyderabad House, the venue for the summit, PM Modi highlighted the “time-tested” friendship between India and Russia, a relationship marked by mutual trust and strategic partnership spanning over 25 years since Putin’s first visit to India.
“Since the Ukraine crisis began, we have been in constant discussion,” PM Modi said. “From time to time, you too, as a true friend, have kept us informed about everything. I believe that trust is a great strength. The welfare of nations lies in the path of peace. Together, we will lead the world towards that path. I am fully confident that with the efforts being made in recent days, the world will once again return to the direction of peace.”
PM Modi was unequivocal about India’s position on the conflict: “India is not neutral; it is on the side of peace. We support every effort toward peace. India supports a peaceful solution to the conflict. The world will only benefit if we travel on the path of peace.”
Echoing these sentiments, President Putin expressed gratitude for the warm reception. “Thankful to PM Modi for being invited,” he said. “On the issue of peace, both nations are together.” Putin also assured that Russia is working toward a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
The summit is expected to further deepen the bilateral relationship, focusing on cooperation in defence, energy, and trade. PM Modi noted the significance of this year marking 25 years since Putin’s first visit, which laid the foundation for the strategic partnership between the two countries.
In a symbolic gesture, PM Modi presented President Putin with a copy of the Bhagavad Gita translated into Russian. “The teachings of the Gita inspire millions worldwide,” PM Modi said, underscoring the cultural bonds that complement their diplomatic ties.
PM Modi’s personal warmth was evident as he broke protocol to welcome President Putin on the tarmac at Palam Airport on Thursday, greeting him with a hug- a gesture reflecting the close personal rapport between the two leaders.
In a post on X, PM Modi described their friendship as “time-tested” and expressed delight in welcoming Putin back to India after four years. “Should work together and pave way for peace,” he wrote, encapsulating the summit’s overarching message.
As global tensions continue, this meeting marks another pivotal chapter in the longstanding India-Russia friendship—one rooted in shared interests. UNI SKA AAB
“Should work together and pave way for peace”: PM Modi in bilateral talks with President Putin
