Tianjin (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday that New Delhi and Moscow stand united even during challenging times, after Putin referred to Modi as his “dear friend” and gave him a ride in his armored limousine, Reuters reported.
During the SCO meeting in Tianjin, China’s port city, Modi walked with Putin while holding his hand as they approached Chinese President Xi Jinping. All three exchanged smiles and conversations, with translators present.
What message did Modi give about India-Russia unity?
Later, the Indian Prime Minister shared a photo on X showing himself and the Russian President inside the armored Russian Aurus limousine used by the Kremlin leader. During the bilateral meeting, Modi told Putin that India and Russia had remained united even during difficult times.
“Even in the most difficult situations, India and Russia have always walked shoulder to shoulder,”
Modi expressed.
“Our close cooperation is important not only for the people of both countries but also for global peace, stability, and prosperity.”
What did Putin say to Modi?
At the bilateral meeting, Putin addressed Modi in Russian as
“Dear Mr. Prime Minister, dear friend.”
“Russia and India have maintained special relations for decades, friendly and trusting. This is the foundation for the development of our relations in the future,”
The Russian president said.
Modi said he welcomed recent efforts aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.
“We hope that all parties will move forward constructively. A way has to be found to end the conflict as soon as possible and establish permanent peace,”
The Indian PM stated.
Putin frequently uses the Aurus during international trips and has occasionally given rides to other world leaders.
When was the last time the Indian Prime Minister visited Russia?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi last traveled to Russia in July 2024. This trip was Modi’s first visit to Russia in almost five years. While in Russia, Modi spent considerable time with Russian President Vladimir Putin and invited him to visit India, which he accepted.