PM Modi Congratulates Vladimir Putin On Re-Election As Russia’s President

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Vladimir Putin on his re-election as Russia’s President, expressing a desire to further solidify the “special” relationship between the two nations.

In a social media post, PM Modi underscored the importance of further collaboration in the years ahead.

“Look forward to working together to further strengthen the time-tested Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia in the years to come,” PM Modi wrote on X.

Warm congratulations to H.E. Mr. Vladimir Putin on his re-election as the President of the Russian Federation. Look forward to working together to further strengthen the time-tested Special & Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia in the years to come.…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 18, 2024

India and Russia share a historical relationship dating back to the Cold War era, with Russia serving as India’s primary arms supplier. Despite global tensions surrounding Russia’s actions in Ukraine, India has refrained from direct condemnations, instead focusing on enhancing bilateral security ties with the United States.

India’s recent procurement of significant quantities of discounted Russian crude oil has strengthened economic ties, making Russia India’s leading oil supplier. However, India has also expanded defence cooperation with Western nations, including through alliances like the Quad with the United States, Japan, and Australia.