India–Russia Friendship ‘Steadfast as the Pole Star,’ Says PM Modi — Vows Continued Joint Fight Against Terrorism
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the long-standing friendship between India and Russia, expressing confidence that the partnership will empower both nations to face future global challenges. Modi recalled that in 2010, the relationship was elevated to a “Special & Privileged Strategic Partnership,” and credited President Vladimir Putin for his leadership in strengthening bilateral ties for over 25 years.
“Over the past eight decades, the world has witnessed many upheavals, challenges, and crises. Amid all this, India–Russia friendship has remained unwavering — like the Pole Star,” PM Modi said, expressing deep gratitude to President Putin for his enduring commitment to India.
Highlighting key areas of cooperation, the Prime Minister said that energy security has been a strong and essential pillar of the India–Russia partnership, with decades-long collaboration in civil nuclear energy significantly contributing to shared clean-energy goals. Cooperation in critical minerals, he noted, is vital for ensuring secure, diversified global supply chains — supporting clean energy, high-tech manufacturing, and next-generation industries.
Modi also emphasised the potential of deepening cooperation in shipbuilding, saying it could greatly bolster the Make in India initiative while generating employment, strengthening skills, and enhancing regional connectivity.
Touching upon the Ukraine conflict, the Prime Minister reiterated India’s consistent stance in favour of peace and diplomacy. “India supports all efforts aimed at a peaceful and lasting solution,” he said, reaffirming India’s readiness to contribute to peace initiatives now and in the future.
On the economic front, Modi noted that expanding bilateral trade is a key priority. India and Russia have agreed on a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Programme until 2030 and are working toward an early Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Eurasian Economic Union.
PM Modi delivered a strong message on terrorism, reaffirming that India and Russia have long stood shoulder-to-shoulder in the global fight against terror. Referring to attacks such as the Pahalgam terror strike and the Crocus City Hall attack, he said, “The roots of all these incidents are the same. Terrorism is a direct assault on the values of humanity, and global unity against it is our greatest strength.”
He added that the two countries continue close cooperation across international platforms such as the UN, G20, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
Referring to people-to-people ties, Modi highlighted the massive turnout of devotees in Kalmykia earlier this year to receive blessings from the sacred relics of Lord Buddha during the International Buddhist Forum. He also announced that India will soon roll out a 30-day free e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian citizens, further strengthening cultural and tourism ties.
The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming that India–Russia relations will continue to deepen across sectors, guided by mutual trust, strategic convergence, and a shared vision for global peace and stability.