In a resounding endorsement of India’s economic progress, Russian President Vladimir Putin advocated for India’s inclusion among global superpowers. Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin lauded India as the world’s fastest-growing economy and emphasized the strong, multi-dimensional ties between India and Russia. “India should undoubtedly be added to the list of superpowers, with its billion-and-a-half population, ancient culture, and very good prospects for further growth,” he remarked.
Putin underscored the importance of the bilateral relationship, stating, “We are developing relations with India in all directions. India is a great country, now the largest in terms of population: 1.5 billion people, plus 10 million every year.” His comments signal an ongoing commitment to deepening ties with India, across economic, security, and defense sectors.
Defense Cooperation and Trust
Highlighting the mutual trust between the two nations, Putin referenced significant collaborative defense projects, notably the BrahMos missile—a product of joint development between India and Russia. “We don’t just sell our weapons to India; we design them jointly,” he said, hinting at the distinct partnership with India compared to the U.S., which largely acts as a weapons supplier. Putin emphasized that joint projects like BrahMos, which is operational across air, sea, and land, are testament to the “high level of mutual trust and cooperation” between the two countries.
Navigating Challenges in India-China Relations
Putin also addressed tensions along the India-China border, which escalated following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. Acknowledging these challenges, he noted, “Wise and competent people who keep the future of their nations in mind are searching for compromises and will eventually find them.” His comments follow recent progress made between India and China in disengaging troops along the contested Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, as Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced last month. This development is seen as a significant step toward resolution.
Future Prospects
Putin’s endorsement of India as a global superpower reflects Russia’s strategy to strengthen partnerships with emerging economies in Asia. His praise comes amid ongoing Western scrutiny of Russia’s global alliances, and he has maintained that Russia will continue to foster its relationship with India. “This is widely known and no one has issues with that,” Putin said, reiterating that India-Russia projects will continue to reflect “a high level of mutual trust and cooperation” well into the future.
Putin’s statements signal a solidifying of India-Russia ties in a world increasingly marked by strategic alliances. For India, this recognition could bolster its diplomatic leverage and solidify its status on the world stage.