India and Russia on Friday issued a strong joint call for an “uncompromising” global fight against terrorism, denouncing “hidden agendas and double standards” while reaffirming their long-standing security partnership. At the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin underscored the need for a united global front against terrorism, calling it a direct assault on humanity.
The two leaders condemned the recent terror attacks in Pahalgam (J&K) and Moscow’s Crocus City Hall, stressing that groups such as ISIS, ISKP and their affiliates must be eliminated through a zero-tolerance policy.
Modi said, “Be it the attack in Pahalgam or the cowardly attack on Crocus City Hall — the root of these incidents is the same. Terrorism is a direct attack on the values of humanity.”
The joint statement urged concerted global action against UN-listed terrorist groups, terrorism financing networks, cross-border terrorism, safe havens, and radicalisation through digital platforms. Both sides emphasised strict adherence to the UN Charter and relevant UNSC resolutions.
Focus on Afghanistan
India and Russia reaffirmed close coordination on Afghanistan and welcomed counter-terror measures targeting ISIS, ISKP and other extremist networks. They stressed the urgent need for uninterrupted humanitarian aid to the Afghan people.
Economic Partnership Gets Major Push
Amid geopolitical disruptions and Western sanctions, India and Russia finalised a five-year economic cooperation plan till 2030, aiming to boost trade, investments, mobility, health collaboration, and energy partnerships.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the “pole-star-like steadfastness” of India-Russia ties over the past eight decades. The two sides also pushed for:
- Early conclusion of an India–Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
- Fast-tracking a bilateral agreement on investment promotion and protection
- Reducing India’s large trade deficit, currently driven by crude oil imports
Russia’s President Putin received a ceremonial welcome, with PM Modi personally greeting him at the airport and hosting a private dinner on Thursday night.
Ukraine Conflict
Modi reiterated India’s consistent stand favouring peace and dialogue:
“India welcomes all efforts for a peaceful and lasting resolution. We have always been ready to contribute and will continue to do so.”
Diplomatic Gifts Highlight India’s Cultural Elegance
Prime Minister Modi presented President Putin with culturally significant gifts, including:
- Assam Black Tea (GI-tagged)
- Kashmiri Saffron (Kong/Zaffran)
- Murshidabad Silver Tea Set
- Handcrafted Silver Horse from Maharashtra
- Marble Chess Set from Agra
- Russian edition of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita
The collection symbolised India’s rich craftsmanship and the enduring India-Russia friendship.
