**Putin Thanks Modi for Enhancing Russia-India Relations Amid Geopolitical Challenges**
In a meeting held at the Kremlin on Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his gratitude to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his significant role in strengthening the ties between Russia and India. Putin attributed the recent increase in bilateral trade to Modi’s “close personal attention” to the relationship, particularly in a challenging geopolitical landscape.
During the meeting with Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, Putin highlighted the positive trend in trade, stating, “I am pleased to note that our trade turnover has grown this year.” He contrasted this with the previous year, when trade had seen a slight decline, emphasizing that the current growth is largely due to Modi's efforts. “This is due in part – and perhaps above all – to the efforts of the prime minister,” Putin remarked.
Jaishankar was in Moscow to co-chair the 27th session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation alongside Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. In his opening remarks, Manturov noted that the bilateral trade turnover between the two nations had increased by 8% in the first half of the year.
This growth comes at a time when both countries are working to deepen their ties, particularly as Western nations attempt to isolate Russia economically. India, for its part, has been cautious about finalizing trade agreements with the United States, which has employed tariffs and sanctions as part of its geopolitical strategy.
Putin extended his best wishes to Modi through Jaishankar, expressing hope for a forthcoming meeting between the two leaders at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit scheduled to take place in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, next week. “I hope to see him soon, as we planned, within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization,” Putin stated.
In addition to discussing trade, Putin also addressed agricultural cooperation, pledging to support Indian farmers by increasing fertilizer shipments to India. He acknowledged the disruptions in fertilizer supplies from the Middle East, which have been affected by ongoing conflicts in the region. “We are doing everything to resolve this issue for Indian farmers and agriculture; we are increasing these supplies and are ready to continue doing so,” he assured.
The discussions also touched on broader areas of collaboration, including nuclear energy and high-tech fields, with Putin noting that progress in these areas is “confidently” advancing.
As Modi and Putin prepare for their upcoming meeting, the strengthening of Russia-India relations appears to be a focal point for both leaders, particularly in light of the shifting global geopolitical dynamics. The upcoming BRICS summit, scheduled for September 12-13 in New Delhi, was also mentioned, with Modi extending an invitation to Putin to participate, further anchoring their regular annual exchanges.
The recent developments underscore the importance of the Russia-India partnership, particularly as both nations navigate a complex international landscape.