Modi, Putin Discuss Ukraine Crisis, Strategic Partnership Amid US-India Trade Strain News24 –

Amid rising tensions over the imposition of trade tariffs on India by the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with President Vladimir Putin on Friday. 

President Putin briefed the Prime Minister on the latest developments concerning Ukraine, while PM Modi reiterated India’s consistent position in favour of a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The leaders committed to further deepening the India–Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.

The two leaders reviewed progress on the bilateral agenda and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia. In addition, the Prime Minister invited President Putin to visit India later this year for the India–Russia Annual Bilateral Summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also received a telephone call from Brazil, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, on Thursday, the two leaders exchanged views on various regional and global issues of mutual interest and reiterating their commitment to take the Strategic Partnership to new heights.

A PMO release detailed that Prime Minister recalled his visit to Brazil last month during which the two leaders agreed on a framework to strengthen cooperation in trade, technology, energy, defence, agriculture, health and people-to-people ties.

Building on these discussions, they reiterated their commitment to take the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership to new heights.”The two leaders exchanged views on various regional and global issues of mutual interest. The two leaders agreed to remain in touch,” the release said.

In his post on X on his telephone talk with the Brazilian President, PM Modi said that a strong, people-centric partnership between Global South nations will benefit everyone.

He said the two countries are committed to deepening their Strategic Partnership in trade, energy, tech, defence,and other areas.

“Had a good conversation with President Lula. Thanked him for making my visit to Brazil memorable and meaningful. We are committed to deepening our Strategic Partnership including in trade, energy, tech, defence, health and more. A strong, people-centric partnership between Global South nations benefits everyone”, PM Modi said in a post on X.

The telephone call took place a day after US President Donald Trump hiked tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent over the country’s import of Russian oil. Brazil also faces similar tariffs from the United States.