Vladimir Putin on PM Modi's leadership: 'Cannot imagine he could be intimidated or forced'

Vladimir Putin praised PM Modi's leadership in the face of external pressures from 'unfriendly countries'.

Russian President Vladimir Putin showered accolades on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asserting that the bilateral relations between India and Russia are advancing across all fronts in a bold declaration at the investment forum "Russia Calling" in Moscow.

Putin, acknowledging PM Modi's leadership in the face of external pressures from “unfriendly countries”, emphasized the long-standing bond the two nations have shared historically.

Putin lauded PM Modi's stance in defending India's national interests, expressing admiration for the Prime Minister's approach. "I cannot imagine that Modi could be intimidated, intimidated or forced to take any actions, steps and decisions that are contrary to the national interests of India and the Indian people. And there is such pressure, I know. By the way, he and I never even talk about this. I just look at what is happening from the outside, and sometimes, to be honest, I'm even surprised at his tough position on defending the national interests of the Indian state," the Russian President's Office quoted Putin as saying.

He continued: “I just look at what is happening from the outside, and sometimes, frankly speaking, I am even surprised at his tough stance on defending the national interests of the Indian state.”

Putin also weighed in on the bilateral relations between India and Russia saying the countries are “developing progressively along all trajectories” and added that the “main guarantor” of this is the policy followed by PM Modi.

The Russian President also highlighted India's economic prowess, ranking third globally in purchasing power parity and economic volume, emphasizing the need to boost trade ties further.

Maintaining steady relations for over seven decades, India and Russia have weathered various global crises.

Putin's praise for PM Modi carries particular weight, given the personal bond the two leaders share. They have reportedly spoken several times over phone calls during the Ukraine war. Despite the spotlight on India's defense partnership with Russia amid the Ukraine war, India has consistently affirmed its commitment to act in its national interest, including continuing the purchase of cost-effective crude oil from Russia.