Putin Signals Stronger Ties with India, Addresses Trade Imbalance Ahead of december Visit
Sochi, russia – Russian President Vladimir Putin has underscored the enduring strength of Russia-India relations, expressing anticipation for his upcoming visit to New Delhi in early December. Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club forum on Thursday, Putin also directed his government to explore measures to address the current trade imbalance favoring India, largely due to new Delhi’s significant crude oil imports from Russia.
Putin emphasized the historically close ties between the two nations, stating, “We have never had any problems or interstate tensions with India. Never.” He highlighted India’s recognition and recognition of Russia’s support during its independence struggle, a sentiment he believes continues to shape the relationship today.
“[In India,] they remember this, they know it, and they value it. We appreciate that India has not forgotten it,” Putin stated, characterizing the relationship as “special” and rooted in decades of mutual respect.
The Russian President also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as a “balanced, wise, and nationally oriented” leader with whom he enjoys a comfortable and trustworthy rapport. “I feel comfortable in our interactions,” Putin noted, referring to Modi as a “friend.”
Addressing Trade Concerns
While celebrating the strength of the partnership, Putin acknowledged the need to recalibrate the economic dynamic. India’s considerable imports of Russian crude oil have created a trade imbalance, and the Russian government is now focused on identifying strategies to diversify trade and reduce this disparity. Details of these measures were not disclosed during the forum.
Geopolitical context
Putin’s remarks come amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions, and he also used the forum to criticize what he described as U.S. pressure on countries like India and China to curtail their energy ties with Moscow. He did not elaborate on specific instances of this alleged pressure.
Keywords: Vladimir Putin, India, Russia, Narendra Modi, trade, Energy, Geopolitics, Valdai Discussion Club, International Relations, Russia-India Relations, Crude Oil, Trade Imbalance.