Putin Echoes PM Modi’s Call for Self-Reliance: Urges Russians to Drive Russia-Made Cars

Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin recently emphasized the importance of self-reliance in the automobile sector in Russia, drawing inspiration from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During a televised interview, Putin encouraged Russians to choose domestically manufactured cars, addressing concerns reminiscent of the 1990s when a shortage of Russian-made cars hampered self-reliance efforts.

Putin acknowledged the availability of domestically produced cars in Russia today, albeit somewhat more modest compared to luxury brands like Mercedes and Audi. He commended Prime Minister Modi’s approach in India, where there is a strong focus on using and promoting locally made vehicles.

The Russian President stressed the need to utilize these domestically produced vehicles, emphasizing that they comply with international commitments under the World Trade Organization (WTO). He emphasized the importance of establishing guidelines for the use of Russian-made cars.

In response to a growing initiative in Russia to promote domestically manufactured cars, state officials are being encouraged to drive Russian-made vehicles.