The bilateral relationship is based on “mutual trust and mutual respect,” Modi said on Tuesday during a visit to Moscow. At the same time, he highlighted Putin’s leadership qualities. “Every Indian sees Russia as a friend of India in good times and bad.”
Modi’s two-day visit to Moscow coincides with the start of the NATO summit in Washington, which will focus on Russia’s war of aggression once morest Ukraine. Modi said that Indian-Russian relations have been tested several times. But the relationship has emerged stronger each time. He described Putin as his “dear friend” and he appreciates him for that. Russia has been India’s largest arms supplier for decades, and the two countries have had close relations since the Soviet era.
West strives for good relations
But the West is also trying to maintain good relations with India, which is also seen as a counterweight to China. The government in New Delhi, however, refuses to condemn Russia’s war once morest Ukraine, which violates international law. In addition, India is a major buyer of Russian oil.
After his visit to Russia, Modi will travel on to Austria. It is the first time in more than 40 years that an Indian Prime Minister has visited the country. Modi will be received by President Alexander van der Bellen and Chancellor Karl Nehammer (ÖVP).
