Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday expressed deep appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm hospitality and reaffirmed the strength of their personal and professional rapport. Speaking after the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit held at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, Putin said he and PM Modi share a “close working and personal contact” that allows both leaders to consistently oversee and guide the progress of bilateral cooperation across strategic sectors.

Putin noted that his one-on-one dinner meeting with PM Modi the previous evening set a positive tone for the summit discussions. He highlighted that the talks took place in a constructive and friendly atmosphere, reflecting the “especially privileged strategic partnership” between the two nations. The Russian President said the two leaders regularly communicate—both in person and by phone—to review developments in bilateral projects and ensure momentum in all major areas of collaboration.

The summit witnessed comprehensive discussions on political, economic, defense, energy, scientific, and cultural ties. Putin said both sides “deeply and thoroughly examined” the full spectrum of current issues and aligned their views on key global and regional matters. The joint statement adopted during the summit outlines priority areas for cooperation and includes a substantial set of intergovernmental, interdepartmental, and corporate agreements.

Key documents exchanged include MoUs on Trade and Commerce, Migration and Mobility, Maritime Cooperation, Health and Food Safety, Fertilizers, Media Collaboration, Academic Exchanges, and various people-to-people initiatives. Putin emphasized that many of these agreements will accelerate economic engagement, which has already seen bilateral trade reach $64–65 billion last year. With growth projected to continue, both nations aim to push trade volumes to $100 billion by 2030. A dedicated program has been finalized to guide economic cooperation toward this goal.

Putin stressed the growing use of national currencies in bilateral trade—now accounting for 96% of transactions—and highlighted progress in interbank credit channels, energy cooperation, and financing of joint projects. He also cited major connectivity initiatives like the International North-South Transport Corridor and the Northern Sea Route, which will significantly expand trade routes between the two nations.

The Russian President pointed to strong collaboration in sectors such as space, engineering, digital technology, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, including new joint ventures and projects under India’s Make in India initiative. He also praised the flourishing humanitarian and cultural exchanges, rising tourism, and the shared vision of both nations in global forums like BRICS and SCO.