India-Russia ties not against anyone, aimed at safeguarding our interests: Putin

Key Highlights

• "Neither I nor Prime Minister Modi, despite certain external pressures we face, have ever approached our collaboration to work against someone," he said when asked about Washington's aggressive approach.
• advertisementThe Russian premier also drew a sharp distinction between Moscow's goals and those of the United States, adding, "President Trump has his own agenda, his own goals, whereas we focus on ours -- not against anyone, but rather aimed at safeguarding our respective interests, India's and Russia's interests.
• Energy cooperation was another point of emphasis and Putin argued that unnamed global players are unhappy with India's expanding role in energy markets because of its ties with Moscow.
• Despite sanctions, he maintained that the bilateral energy equation remains steady. Turning to India's global stature, Putin said New Delhi can no longer be treated as it was decades ago."Prime Minister Modi is not someone who succumbs to pressure easily.
• The Indian people can certainly take pride in their leader.