PM Modi dials Putin, discusses Ukraine War and extends invitation to India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which the two leaders discussed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and reviewed the progress of their bilateral relationship. According to an official statement, President Putin briefed PM Modi on the latest developments concerning the war. In response, Modi reiterated India’s consistent position for a peaceful resolution to the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy, reinforcing New Delhi's stance on the matter.

The conversation also served to take stock of the strong ties between the two nations, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to further deepen the "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership" that defines their relationship. This partnership, which encompasses cooperation in politics, defense, civil nuclear energy, and trade, remains a key pillar of India's foreign policy, especially amidst an evolving global geopolitical landscape.

A highlight of the call was PM Modi's invitation to President Putin to visit India later this year for the 23rd Annual Bilateral Summit. This visit, once finalized, is expected to give fresh momentum to key areas of cooperation, including trade, defense, and energy. The invitation follows recent high-level discussions between the two nations and comes at a time when India's relationship with Russia is under intense international scrutiny.