Janjivan Bureau / New Delhi :
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin Friday held the India-Russia annual summit after which eight pacts, including on cooperation on India’s ambitious human space mission project Gaganyaan, were signed.
Official sources said the two countries also signed the USD 5 billion S-400 air defence system deal after talks between the two leaders in Hyderabad House.
Talks with President Putin have given new direction to the bilateral strategic partnership, Modi said in a press statement after the 19th India-Russia annual summit.
Pacts were also inked in the fields of space, nuclear energy, railways and space.
A crucial MoU was signed between Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and the Federal Space Agency of Russia ROSCOSMOS’ on joint activities in the field of human spaceflight programme Gaganyaan.
India and Russia are committed to cooperating in the fight against terrorism, Modi said.
President Putin said the two countries have agreed to step up cooperation in combating the menace of terrorism and drug trafficking.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin met here on Friday for the 19th India-Russia annual bilateral summit during which they will deliberate on a host of bilateral, regional and global issues.
The summit began at Hyderabad House here in the morning.
“A relationship radiating warmth and affection! PM @narendramodi welcomed @KremlinRussia_E Vladimir Putin for the 19th India-Russia Annual Bilateral Summit continuing the series of fruitful engagements this year!” Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted along with a picture of the two leaders at Hyderabad House.
A number of agreements, including the crucial USD 5 billion S-400 air missile defence system deal, are expected to be signed later in the day.
Putin had a one-on-one meeting with the Prime Minister after his arrival here on Thursday evening. Modi had hosted a private dinner for the visiting dignitary.
The Russian President, who leaves on Friday evening, is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Borisov, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Trade and Industry Minister Denis Manturov.
