New Delhi, Dec 5 (UN) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that both India and Russia are actively working towards the early conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Eurasian Economic Union, aiming to further strengthen economic ties and boost bilateral trade.
Following the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, PM Modi said, "India and Russia are working towards the early conclusion of an FTA with the Eurasian Economic Union."
Modi highlighted that President Vladimir Putin's vision and steadfast leadership have consistently strengthened India-Russia ties, elevating the partnership to new heights.
Marking 25 years of strategic relations, PM Modi recalled that in 2010, India and Russia elevated their relationship to a Special Privileged Strategic Partnership. "Over the past two and a half decades, President Putin has nurtured this relationship with his leadership and vision. His guidance, under all circumstances, has strengthened our ties. I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Putin, my friend, for this deep friendship and unwavering commitment to India," he said after bilateral talks.
PM Modi also emphasized the priority of expanding economic cooperation, announcing a program of collaboration through 2030.
He reflected on the enduring nature of the bilateral relationship, saying, "Over the past eight decades, the world has faced numerous challenges and crises. Amidst all this, India-Russia friendship has remained steadfast like a pole star."
On security cooperation, particularly in combating terrorism, PM Modi said, "India and Russia have long stood shoulder to shoulder in the fight against terrorism. Whether it is the terrorist attack in Pahalgam or the cowardly attack on the Crocus City Hall, the root of all these incidents is the same. "
The Prime Minister added India's unwaveringly believes that terrorism is a "direct assault on the values of humanity and that global unity". He also added that India and Russia have close cooperation in the UN, G20, BRICS, SCO, and other forums and "will continue our dialogue and cooperation in all these platforms."
UNI AAB