Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, expressed his congratulations to the re-elected Russian President, Vladimir Putin, and stated his anticipation of enhancing their unique relationship to develop stronger connections.
Modi posted on social media platform X, expressing his eagerness to collaborate and reinforce the well-established Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia in the future.
He extended his warm congratulations to Putin.
The relationship between New Delhi and Moscow dates back to the Cold War era, and Russia remains the largest arms supplier to India.
India has refrained from openly criticizing Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, while seeking to enhance security ties with the United States.
Since the invasion of Ukraine, India has purchased hundreds of millions of barrels of discounted Russian crude, saving billions of dollars and boosting Moscow's war funds.
Russia has become India’s primary oil supplier, surpassing the traditional heavyweight exporters in the Middle East.
However, India has also expanded its defense cooperation with Western nations in recent years, including through the Quad alliance with the United States, Japan, and Australia.
Meanwhile, China, a key ally of Russia, also offered its congratulations to President Vladimir Putin on his re-election victory.
When asked about the election, foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian stated, “China expresses its congratulations.”
AFP
