Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the Indian diaspora in Moscow, delivered a robust endorsement of India-Russia relations, hailing Russia as India's "all-weather friend" and commending President Vladimir Putin for his leadership in strengthening bilateral ties over the past two decades.
PM Modi's remarks came as the Western world continues its efforts to isolate Russia due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The Prime Minister pointed out the resilient and tested relationship between India and Russia, built on mutual trust and respect.
Enduring partnership amid global turmoil
Modi's praise for Russia and Putin comes at a time when global geopolitics is heavily influenced by the Ukraine war.
The Prime Minister subtly criticised the longstanding "influence-oriented global order," suggesting that the world now requires "confluence" rather than influence.
He asserted that India, with its tradition of worshipping confluences, is best positioned to deliver this message.
"India is seen as a strong pillar in the emerging multipolar world order," Modi said. "When India speaks of peace, dialogue, and diplomacy, the world listens."
He reiterated his stance on the need for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
PM Modi reflected on his long-standing admiration for the unique partnership between India and Russia.
"On hearing the word Russia, the first word that comes to the mind of every Indian is 'sukh-dukh ka saathi' (all-weather friend) and a trusted ally," he said.
He lauded the warmth and resilience of the India-Russia relationship, noting that it remains strong even in the harshest of winters.
He specifically commended President Putin, whom he referred to as "my friend," for elevating the India-Russia friendship to new heights over the last two decades.
Modi highlighted that as Prime Minister, this was his sixth visit to Russia, and he and Putin have met 17 times during this period, enhancing mutual trust and respect.
Evacuation efforts and new consulates
Modi expressed gratitude to Putin and the Russian people for their assistance in evacuating Indian students during the Ukraine war.
He also announced the opening of two new Indian consulates in Russia to boost travel and trade between the two countries, a move met with applause from the audience.
Cultural ties and bollywood's influence
Modi reminisced about the deep cultural ties between India and Russia, mentioning the celebrated Hindi song 'Sar pe lal topi Rusi, phir bhi dil hai Hindustani' and actor Mithun Chakraborty, who enjoys a significant following in Russia.
He cited the importance of these cultural connections in strengthening bilateral ties.
Shifting focus to India's development, PM Modi highlighted the transformative progress the country has made over the past decade.
He asserted that the pace of India's development has taken the world by surprise, affirming his campaign slogan that the 21st century belongs to India.
"The fast pace of India's development will write a new chapter in the world's progress," he said.
Modi emphasised that India’s strength lies in its 140 crore citizens who are determined to turn their vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) into reality.
Sports achievements and national confidence
Modi highlighted India's sporting achievements, including the recent T20 World Cup victory, and expressed confidence in India's athletes who will compete in the upcoming Paris Olympics.
"The youth of India today does not concede defeat till the last ball and the last moment," he said.
Reflecting on his recent electoral victory and third term as Prime Minister, Modi reiterated his resolve to work with thrice the strength and speed to fulfill the nation's aspirations.
He outlined his government's vision to make India the world's third-largest economy, build three crore homes for the poor, and transform three crore poor women in villages into 'lakhpati didi' (millionaire sisters).
"Our government is committed to achieving these ambitious goals," he said, amidst chants of ‘Modi, Modi’ and ‘Modi hai toh mumkin hai’ (If Modi is there, it is possible).
Modi also highlighted India's achievements in space exploration, particularly the Chandrayaan mission, and in digital transactions, positioning India as a global leader in these domains.
He asserted that the development witnessed over the past decade is merely a trailer of what is to come in the next ten years, promising even faster growth and greater achievements.
The Prime Minister concluded by acknowledging the pride the Indian diaspora takes in the country's achievements. He urged them to continue supporting India's growth and to take pride in the nation's progress.
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