New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) Emphasizing the enduring nature of India-Russia relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked on Friday that the camaraderie between the two nations has persisted like a pole star, navigating through the fluctuations encountered globally over the past 80 years.

During a joint press briefing with Russian President Vladimir Putin following their discussions at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi, PM Modi expressed gratitude towards Putin for his steadfast friendship and dedication to India, while also acknowledging the initiatives taken by the Russian leadership to enhance bilateral relations.

"It brings me great joy to welcome President Putin for the 23rd India-Russia Summit. His visit is significant as our bilateral relations reach several historic milestones. Twenty-five years ago, President Putin established the groundwork for our strategic partnership. In 2010, our partnership was recognized as a Special Privileged Strategic Partnership. For the last two and a half decades, he has fostered this relationship with his leadership and vision," stated PM Modi.

He further noted, "President Putin's leadership, irrespective of circumstances, has uplifted our relations to unprecedented levels. I extend my sincere thanks to President Putin, my friend, for this profound friendship and unwavering commitment to India. Despite the many challenges humanity has faced in the past eight decades, the India-Russia friendship has remained a constant, akin to a pole star. This bond, rooted in mutual respect and profound trust, has always endured the test of time," he added.

Reflecting on recent terrorist attacks in both nations, PM Modi highlighted that India and Russia have united in their battle against terrorism.

"Today, we also deliberated on regional and global matters. India and Russia have consistently collaborated in the fight against terrorism. Whether it be the terrorist incident in Pahalgam or the despicable attack on Crocus City Hall, the origins of these events are alike. India firmly holds that terrorism is a direct affront to humanity, and our collective stance against it is our greatest strength," he stated.

PM Modi announced cooperative efforts to train Indian seafarers in polar regions. "We will collaborate to train Indian seafarers in polar waters. This will not only enhance our cooperation in the Arctic but also generate new job opportunities for the youth of India," he noted.

Reiterating India’s position on the conflict in Ukraine, he remarked, "From the outset, India has advocated for peace in Ukraine. We welcome all endeavors aimed at achieving a peaceful and enduring resolution to this situation. India has always been ready to contribute and will persist in doing so."

PM Modi also characterized energy security as a vital and significant aspect of the India-Russia partnership. He emphasized that their cooperation in civil nuclear energy has been essential in realizing mutual clean energy objectives.

"Energy security has been a strong and important pillar of the India-Russia partnership. Our longstanding cooperation in civil nuclear energy has been instrumental in achieving our shared clean energy goals. We will continue this mutually beneficial collaboration. Our partnership in critical minerals is essential for ensuring secure and diversified supply chains globally," PM Modi concluded.

Previously, in a display of the India-Russia Special and Privileged Partnership, PM Modi warmly greeted President Putin at Hyderabad House for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.

As both nations uphold a deep-seated and time-honored relationship, the two leaders are engaged in comprehensive discussions aimed at further strengthening bilateral ties.