Sochi, Russia: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday expressed eagerness for his upcoming visit to India in early December for the annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing the Indian leader as his “dear friend” and a “trustworthy partner.”
Putin made the remarks during the international Valdai discussion forum, attended by security and geopolitical experts from 140 countries, including India, at the Black Sea resort of Sochi.
India-Russia relations of a special nature
Speaking about bilateral ties, Putin emphasised the deep-rooted and historical nature of India-Russia relations.
“Our relations with India are of special nature ever since the Soviet Union and since the days where the Indian people fought for their independence. India knows, remembers, appreciates that. And we appreciate the fact that India never forgets. And so our relations are developing,” he said.
He also highlighted that India and Russia are celebrating 15 years of their specialised strategic privileged partnership. According to Putin, the two nations have never had significant interstate differences.
Praising PM Modi and strategic cooperation
Putin lauded Prime Minister Modi as a “reasonable and wise leader” and underscored the strength of bilateral cooperation in trade and security.
“So now our priority is to build effective, mutually beneficial trade ties. And we also have very trustworthy relations in the security area. Joint production of very modern types of arms once again underscores the kind of trust that’s been built between our countries,” he added.
He described Modi’s leadership as being firmly oriented toward India’s national interests and praised India’s role in sustaining a strong, independent foreign policy.
Stance on US pressure over Russian oil
Putin also warned the United States against pressuring India to halt its Russian energy imports, stressing that New Delhi would never allow itself to be humiliated.
“Will India give up our energy resources? If so, it will incur certain losses. Estimates vary; some say it could be around $9–10 billion. But if it doesn’t refuse, sanctions will be imposed, and the loss will be the same. So why refuse if it also carries domestic political costs? [Indian people] will never allow themselves to be humiliated by anyone. I know Prime Minister Modi; he will also not make any such decisions,” he said.
Putin added that any potential losses due to US punitive tariffs would be offset by crude imports from Russia, while also enhancing India’s prestige as a sovereign nation.
Looking ahead to the December summit
The Russian president’s remarks come weeks ahead of his official visit to India, signalling a continued focus on strengthening strategic, trade, and defence cooperation between the two countries. Observers note that the summit is likely to reaffirm mutual commitment to energy security, defence partnerships, and broader geopolitical collaboration.