PM Modi and Putin Defy US Tensions: India-Russia Bond Strengthens Global Stability
PM Modi, Putin boost ties, discuss peace and trade at SCO amid US strain.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin, meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, underscored the enduring strength of India-Russia relations as a pillar of regional and global stability. Against the backdrop of heightened tensions with the United States, marked by a 50 percent tariff hike on Indian goods, Modi emphasized that the two nations have “always stood shoulder-to-shoulder even in the most difficult situations.”
The leaders engaged in a 40-minute informal discussion while traveling together to the meeting venue, followed by formal talks focusing on expanding cooperation in trade, energy, fertilizers, security, and culture. Modi voiced support for recent initiatives to resolve the Ukraine conflict, stating, “We hope that all parties shall proceed ahead constructively. A way must be found to end this conflict and establish lasting peace.”
He briefed Putin on his recent conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, affirming India’s readiness to facilitate peace efforts. Putin highlighted the “special friendly and trust-based” ties, noting their bipartisan support and active collaboration in global forums like the UN, BRICS, G20, and SCO.
Modi invited Putin to India in December, expressing the enthusiasm of 140 crore Indians for his visit. The leaders expressed satisfaction with growing bilateral trade and tourism, reaffirming their commitment to the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.
Amid US criticism and tariffs, including a 25 percent duty on India’s Russian oil purchases, the meeting underscored the resilience of India-Russia ties as a counterbalance to global challenges, with Modi calling their cooperation vital for “global peace, stability, and prosperity.”
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