Putin speaks with PM Modi, gives assessment of "Russia's line on the Ukrainian direction"

Moscow [Russia], December 16 (ANI): Russian President Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday and discussed prospects for practical interaction in areas such as mutual investment, energy, agriculture, transport and logistics.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict figured in the discussions and President Putin gave a fundamental assessment of Russia's line on the Ukrainian direction.

A Kremlin statement said the two leaders underscored the importance of continuing close coordination within the framework of international organizations, including in the context of the Indian presidency in the G20 and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

“Having expressed satisfaction with the high level of bilateral cooperation developing on the principles of the Russian-Indian special and privileged strategic partnership, the leaders discussed in detail the prospects for practical interaction in such areas as mutual investment, energy, agriculture, transport and logistics,” the statement said.

“At the request of Narendra Modi, Vladimir Putin gave fundamental assessments of Russia's line on the Ukrainian direction,” it added.

The two leaders agreed to continue personal contacts.

A PMO statement had said earlier that  PM Modi and President Putin reviewed several aspects of the bilateral relationship, including energy cooperation, trade and investments, defence and security cooperation, and other key areas following up on their meeting in Samarkand on the sidelines of the SCO Summit.

In the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Prime Minister reiterated his call for dialogue and diplomacy as the only way forward.

“Prime Minister briefed President Putin on India’s ongoing Presidency of the G-20, highlighting its key priorities.  He also looked forward to both countries working together during India’s Chairship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The leaders agreed to remain in regular touch with each other,” the statement said.

During their last meeting in Samarkand in September this year, PM Modi and President Putin appreciated the sustained momentum in bilateral relations, including contacts at various levels.  In his remarks, PM Modi had said, "today's era is not of war."

"Today's era is not of war and I have spoken to you about it on the call. Today we will get the opportunity to talk about how we can progress on the path of peace. India, Russia have stayed together with each other for several decades.  We spoke several times on the phone about India-Russia bilateral relations and various issues. We should find ways to address the problems of food, fuel security and fertilizers,” PM Modi had said.  (ANI)