Modi-Putin: India and Russia will increase exchange programs for students and athletes, and cooperation will expand into new areas, announces PM Modi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a joint press conference with Russian President Vladimir Putin at Hyderabad House in Delhi on Friday. ​​During the press conference, Prime Minister Modi said, "I am happy to welcome President Putin to the 23rd India-Russia Summit today. His visit is taking place at a time when our bilateral relations are going through several important milestones. 25 years ago, President Putin laid the foundation of our strategic partnership. He has continuously nurtured these relations. His leadership has taken mutual relations to new heights in every situation. I express my gratitude to President Putin for his deep friendship and unwavering commitment to India."

Prime Minister Modi further stated, "India-Russia friendship has remained like a guiding star. We have always stood the test of time. Today, we have discussed all aspects of cooperation to further strengthen this foundation. Today, we have agreed on an economic cooperation program until 2030. This will ensure balanced and sustainable growth in our trade and investment and add new dimensions to the areas of cooperation. We will also have the opportunity to participate in the India-Russia Business Forum. This will give new strength to our business relations. It will also open new doors for exports, co-production, and co-innovation."

He added, "Our cooperation is also important for food security and farmer welfare. Both sides are working together on efforts to increase urea production. Enhancing connectivity between the two countries is our main priority. Energy security has been a strong and important aspect of the India-Russia partnership. We will continue this win-win cooperation. Our cooperation on critical minerals is also important. This will strengthen our partnership in the areas of clean energy and high-tech manufacturing."

30-day free visa for Russian citizens

The Prime Minister said, "There has been a feeling of affection and mutual respect between the two countries. Recently, two new Indian consulates have been opened in Russia. This will make contact between the citizens of both countries easier and increase mutual closeness." I am pleased that we will soon be launching a free 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian citizens. We will also work together on vocational education, skilling, and training. The exchange of scholars and athletes between both countries will increase.

He said, today we also discussed regional and global issues. Regarding Ukraine, we have advocated for peace from the very beginning. We welcome all efforts being made for a peaceful and lasting solution to this issue. India has always been and will continue to be ready to contribute. India and Russia have always cooperated closely in the fight against terrorism. India firmly believes that terrorism is a direct attack on the values ​​of humanity, and global unity against it is our greatest strength.

Prime Minister Modi said, India and Russia have had close cooperation in the United Nations, G20, BRICS, SCO, and other forums. Moving forward with close coordination, we will continue our dialogue and cooperation on all these platforms. I am fully confident that in the coming times, our friendship will give us the strength to face global challenges. This trust will further enrich our shared future.