Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday strongly endorsed India's relationship with Russia, describing the country as an 'all-weather friend' and commending President Vladimir Putin for his role in bolstering bilateral ties over the past two decades.
Addressing the Indian diaspora, Modi highlighted the resilience of the India-Russia partnership, which he said is built on a foundation of mutual trust and respect. The relationship has been repeatedly tested and has emerged stronger each time, he said.
Modi subtly criticised 'influence-oriented global order,' advocating instead for a world driven by 'confluence,' a message he believes India, with its tradition of worshipping confluences, is uniquely positioned to deliver.
India is a strong pillar in the emerging multipolar world order, he said, asserting that when India speaks of peace, dialogue, and diplomacy, the world listens. Modi reiterated his call for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The Prime Minister praised the warmth of the India-Russia friendship, which he said remains strong even in the coldest Russian winters, thanks to mutual trust and respect.
He particularly lauded Putin for elevating the India-Russia relationship over the last two decades. Modi highlighted his own frequent engagements with the Russian President, noting that they have met 17 times during his tenure as Prime Minister, with each meeting enhancing mutual trust and respect. He also thanked Putin and Russian citizens for assisting in the evacuation of Indian students during the war.
Modi, who recently began his third term as Prime Minister, pledged to work with triple the strength and speed to fulfill the nation's aspirations. He cited India's successful Chandrayaan mission and its digital transaction model as examples of the country's innovative spirit.
The Prime Minister assured the diaspora that India's next decade would see even faster growth, driven by a self-confident, resilient populace. He concluded by acknowledging the pride the Indian diaspora takes in the country's achievements and the importance of their support in achieving future goals.
(With inputs from PTI).
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