FILE PHOTO

WEB DESK

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan. Both the leaders had a detailed and useful exchange of views on Afghanistan’s situation.

They expressed the view that it is important for the two strategic partners to work together and instructed their senior officials to remain in touch. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the progress in the ‘Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership’ between both countries despite the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic. They appreciated the ongoing bilateral cooperation in the fight against the Covid pandemic, especially in the supply and production of ‘Sputnik V’ vaccine.

Both the leaders also touched upon the forthcoming multilateral engagements, including the BRICS Summit, meeting of the Council of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of State, and India’s participation in the Eastern Economic Forum.

Prime Minister Modi said that he looked forward to President Putin’s visit to India for the next Bilateral Summit. The two leaders agreed to remain in touch on bilateral and global issues, in particular, the situation in Afghanistan.

In a tweet, Mr. Modi said, they also discussed issues on the bilateral agenda, including India-Russia cooperation against COVID-19.