Putin holds talks with Jaishankar on Ukraine; invites PM Modi
PTC Web Desk: Foreign Minister S Jaishankar held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on Wednesday, discussing various topics, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. During the meeting, the Russian President extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Russia next year.
Expressing Russia's eagerness for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, President Vladimir Putin conveyed to S Jaishankar, currently on a five-day official visit to Russia, that they would warmly welcome the Indian Prime Minister. Earlier in the day, Jaishankar also met Sergey Lavrov, his Russian counterpart.
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President Putin acknowledged Prime Minister Modi's commitment to seeking a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine crisis and assured India of sharing insights on potential pathways to achieve peace in the region.
During a joint appearance with Lavrov after their discussions, Jaishankar expressed confidence in the annual summit between PM Modi and President Putin scheduled for the next year. Highlighting the frequent communication between the two leaders, Jaishankar emphasised the importance of their ongoing dialogue.
Honoured to call on President Vladimir Putin this evening. Conveyed the warm greetings of PM @narendramodi and handed over a personal message.
Apprised President Putin of my discussions with Ministers Manturov and Lavrov. Appreciated his guidance on the further developments of… pic.twitter.com/iuC944fYHq — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 27, 2023
The forthcoming summit represents the apex institutional channel in the strategic partnership between India and Russia, with 21 summits conducted alternately in each country. The most recent summit occurred in Delhi in December 2021.
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President Vladimir Putin noted the escalating trade turnover between Russia and India, particularly in sectors such as crude oil and advanced technology. He underscored the consistent growth in trade turnover for two consecutive years, with the current year's growth surpassing the previous year's rate.
Earlier in the visit, S Jaishankar held constructive discussions on bilateral economic cooperation with Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. The meetings resulted in the signing of significant agreements related to the development of future power units at the Kudankulam nuclear power plant in Tamil Nadu.
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Despite global concerns over Russia's invasion of Ukraine, India's ties with Russia remain robust. India has refrained from outright condemnation, advocating instead for a diplomatic resolution through dialogue. Notably, India's import of Russian crude oil has substantially increased, despite apprehensions expressed in various Western nations.
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