PM Modi and President Putin share positive chemistry, says Indian official
Moscow/New Delhi, Aug 13 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi shares a ‘positive chemistry’ with Russian President Vladimir Putin, said Indian Ambassador to Moscow Vinay Kumar in an interview with RT.
“There is definitely a positive chemistry between (Putin and Modi),” Kumar said. “They have met many times, they keep regularly speaking on the phone with each other.”
When asked about the “very positive friendly vibe” shown by the body language each time Putin and Modi meet, Kumar said the Russian and Indian leaders are “very genuine people.”
The Indian official’s comments come ahead of the much-anticipated Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, as well as the massive economic tariffs imposed on New Delhi by Washington over its continued purchase of Russian oil.
The two leaders most recently spoke in a phone call on Friday, during which Putin briefed Modi on the latest developments in the Ukraine peace process.
Kumar also briefly spoke on the latest developments in India-US ties, amid the 50% tariff package imposed by President Donald Trump and clarified India’s position on the matter.
“Our reaction has been very measured,” Kumar noted, discussing the latest US measures, adding “India decides on its trade ties with different countries in its own national interest just as every other country would do.”
He further said that India’s purchase of Russian oil has brought about stability in the global oil market. “There are many other countries which are trading with Russia, including the countries which have imposed sanctions.
“What we are doing is looking out for the interests of the people of India. We are going to get the best deal possible to serve our people,” Kumar said.
Prime Minister Modi and President Putin are set to meet in New Delhi this year, for an annual summit, where both leaders will discuss a bunch of issues.
