Sat Nov 09 14:18:36 UTC 2024: ## Putin Calls India a Global Superpower, Highlights Strong Ties
**Sochi, Russia:** Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared India a “global superpower,” highlighting its rapid economic growth and burgeoning partnership with Russia. Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi on Thursday, Putin emphasized India’s significant economic growth, vast population, and promising future prospects.
“India should undoubtedly be added to the list of superpowers, with its billion-and-a-half population, the fastest growth among all economies in the world, ancient culture and very good prospects for further growth,” Putin asserted.
Putin also stressed the strong bilateral ties between Russia and India, describing them as “developing in all directions” with a high level of trust. He specifically highlighted the close cooperation in the defense sector, citing the BrahMos cruise missile project as a prime example.
“Look at how many types of Russian military equipment are in service with the Indian armed forces. There is a great degree of trust in this relationship. We don’t just sell our weapons to India; we design them jointly,” Putin said.
The Russian president acknowledged the ongoing border tensions between India and China, but expressed optimism that a resolution will be found through dialogue and compromise. “Wise and competent people who keep the future of their nations in mind, are searching for compromises and will eventually find them,” Putin stated.
His remarks come after recent progress in resolving the border standoff between India and China, with both countries agreeing to disengagement of troops along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh.
Putin’s statement underscores the growing strategic importance of India on the global stage and the close relationship it has developed with Russia. His pronouncements are likely to be viewed as a significant endorsement of India’s rise as a global power.
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