Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership during an interaction with university students in the Kaliningrad Region on 'Russian Student Day', as reported by Russia-based media network Russia Today (RT). Putin commended India for pursuing an 'independent' foreign policy, citing the country's impressive economic development under Modi's leadership.

Putin emphasized India's significant economic growth and attributed it to Modi's leadership qualities. He expressed confidence in India's reliability as a partner, highlighting its commitment to not engage in 'games' against Russia on the international stage.

The Russian President acknowledged the challenges of maintaining an independent foreign policy in today's world but affirmed India's right to do so, particularly given its vast population. He praised Modi for realizing this right and emphasized the importance of such independence in facilitating long-term strategic planning and cooperation between Russia and India.

Putin also applauded India's 'Make in India' initiative, noting Russia's substantial investments in the country. He highlighted Russia's role as one of the largest investors in India, citing significant investments in various sectors, including oil refineries, gas stations, ports, and more.

Additionally, Putin highlighted the cultural ties between India and Russia, noting the popularity of Indian movies in Russia and the diverse and colorful nature of Indian culture.

The remarks come in the context of ongoing high-level exchanges between India and Russia, including a visit by India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to Russia in December last year. During the visit, several agreements were signed, including those related to cooperation in pharmaceuticals and healthcare, as well as in the field of nuclear power plants.

Overall, Putin's praise for Modi's leadership and India's foreign policy independence underscores the strengthening partnership between Russia and India across various sectors, including economic, cultural, and strategic cooperation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership during an interaction with university students in the Kaliningrad Region on 'Russian Student Day', as reported by Russia-based media network Russia Today (RT). Putin commended India for pursuing an 'independent' foreign policy, citing the country's impressive economic development under Modi's leadership.

Putin emphasized India's significant economic growth and attributed it to Modi's leadership qualities. He expressed confidence in India's reliability as a partner, highlighting its commitment to not engage in 'games' against Russia on the international stage.

The Russian President acknowledged the challenges of maintaining an independent foreign policy in today's world but affirmed India's right to do so, particularly given its vast population. He praised Modi for realizing this right and emphasized the importance of such independence in facilitating long-term strategic planning and cooperation between Russia and India.

Putin also applauded India's 'Make in India' initiative, noting Russia's substantial investments in the country. He highlighted Russia's role as one of the largest investors in India, citing significant investments in various sectors, including oil refineries, gas stations, ports, and more.

Additionally, Putin highlighted the cultural ties between India and Russia, noting the popularity of Indian movies in Russia and the diverse and colorful nature of Indian culture.

The remarks come in the context of ongoing high-level exchanges between India and Russia, including a visit by India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to Russia in December last year. During the visit, several agreements were signed, including those related to cooperation in pharmaceuticals and healthcare, as well as in the field of nuclear power plants.

Overall, Putin's praise for Modi's leadership and India's foreign policy independence underscores the strengthening partnership between Russia and India across various sectors, including economic, cultural, and strategic cooperation.