**Putin Hails PM Modi as a ‘Wise Leader’ Amid Reports of Upcoming Russia-India Summit**
*Moscow:* Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, calling him a “wise leader” who places his country’s interests first, according to Russia Today.
Speaking at the plenary session of the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin emphasized the “special” relationship shared between India and Russia. He recalled that about 15 years ago, both countries announced a “privileged strategic partnership” — a description he believes still perfectly captures the ties between the two nations.
“Prime Minister Modi is a very wise leader who thinks first about his country,” Putin said, quoted by Russia Today.
The remarks come amid reports of President Putin’s planned visit to India later this year. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is also expected to travel to India ahead of Putin’s visit to prepare for the summit and engage in bilateral discussions.
During the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27, Lavrov confirmed that a visit by President Putin to New Delhi is scheduled for December, signaling ongoing diplomatic preparations between the two countries.
Addressing the issue of U.S. tariffs imposed on Indian imports during the Valdai Discussion Club session, Putin highlighted the potential economic consequences if India stops purchasing Russian oil. He estimated that India could face losses amounting to $9 to $10 billion.
“There is no political aspect here; it’s purely an economic calculation. Will India give up our energy resources? If so, it will incur certain losses. Estimates vary; some say it could be around $9-10 billion,” Putin stated.
He further expressed confidence that PM Modi would not succumb to foreign pressure, commending India’s dignity and strategic autonomy.
“[The Indian people] will never allow themselves to be humiliated by anyone. I know Prime Minister Modi, he will also not make any such decisions,” Putin added, as per Russia Today.
Putin’s comments came two weeks after former U.S. President Donald Trump, during his address at the United Nations General Assembly, accused China and India of being the “primary funders” of the Ukraine war by continuing to purchase Russian oil.
“China and India are the primary funders of the ongoing war by continuing to purchase Russian oil,” Trump had said.
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*This development marks a significant moment in Russia-India relations as both countries look to deepen their strategic partnership amid shifting global dynamics.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-calls-pm-modi-wise-leader-reaffirms-india-russia-strategic-partnership
