Official website of the President of Russia

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President Vladimir Putin: Mr Prime Minister, dear colleagues,

Allow me once more to wish you a warm welcome to Moscow. I am very pleased to note the increase in Russian-Indian contacts and the development of our ties in all areas. In literally two weeks we will have the pleasure of receiving the Indian President, Mr Kalam, in Russia. And at the end of the year we expect you, dear Mr. Prime Minister. We will prepare for both the first and second event.

We have plenty to work on in widening our trade and economic ties. I think that you will agree with me that unfortunately the level of exchange of trade turnover is not what it could be between India and Russia. We could give substance to these relations, pay more attention and provide greater support to cooperation in science intensive fields.

Dear Mr Prime Minister, I remember my last visit to India. I would like to thank you for the very warm meeting and the productive talks that you organised with all the Indian colleagues.

Thank you once more for being with us today, together with the Russian people, and are celebrating this important holiday for us, the Day of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

Manmohan Singh: Mr President, for us relations with Russia are very important. I agree with you that we must continue to develop our relations, and we are very grateful to you for your personal contribution in developing our relations. Russia is our friend, who has endured the test of time, and all sections of society in India consider Russia to be our friend. For us, mutual relations with Russia have strategic importance.