PM Modi First Global Leader to Dial Vladimir Putin After Referendum as Two Seek to Widen Strategic Partnership

NEW DELHI: Indian PM on Thursday telephoned Russian President Vladimir Putin seeking to expand strategic partnership close on heels of Defence Minister’s Moscow visit which saw India requesting for early supply for key defence systems amid stand off with China at LAC.

The Indian PM was first world leader to speak to Putin after the constitutional referendum, ET has learnt.

Prime Minister warmly congratulated President Putin on the success of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of the victory in the Second World War, and also for successful completion of the vote on constitutional amendments in Russia.

“Prime Minister recalled the participation of an Indian contingent in the military parade held in Moscow on 24 June as a symbol of abiding friendship between the peoples of India and Russia,” according to a statement released by MEA.

The leaders took note of the effective measures undertaken by the two countries to address the negative consequences of the Covid-19 global pandemic and agreed on the importance of closer India-Russia ties for jointly addressing the challenges of the post-COVID world, the MEA informed.

“They agreed to maintain the momentum of bilateral contacts and consultations, leading to the annual bilateral Summit to be held in India later this year. Prime Minister conveyed his keenness to welcome President Putin in India for the bilateral Summit,” according to the statement. The bilateral summit is expected to open up new areas of strategic partnership.

“Putin thanked the Prime Minister for the phone call and reiterated his commitment to further strengthen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between the two countries in all spheres,” the statement noted.

Russia has agreed to consider early supplies of defence systems including S-400 missile defence system.

Source: ET