India and Russia have agreed to deepen their strategic partnership. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Russian President Vladimir Putin to wish him on his 73rd birthday and discuss bilateral cooperation.

According to the Indian government, Modi conveyed his best wishes for Putin’s health and success. The two leaders have spoken four times since August. Last month, Putin had also called Modi to greet him on his birthday.

Modi and Putin Review Progress

Both leaders reviewed ongoing projects between their countries. They “reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen the special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia,” said the official statement. Modi said he looked forward to welcoming Putin to India for the 23rd annual summit.

Putin is expected to visit India around December 5. Officials from both sides are preparing key agreements to boost cooperation in trade, investment, defence, and security.

Preparations for High-Level Visits

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will travel to New Delhi next month to finalise details of Putin’s visit. This will be Putin’s first trip to India since 2021 and the first since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

India and Russia will also hold a meeting of the Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military-Technical Cooperation later this month to discuss new defence projects.

US Pressure Over Russian Ties

India continues to face pressure from the United States for its close energy and defence links with Moscow. The US has accused India of “profiteering” from its oil purchases from Russia. However, India has maintained that its decisions serve national interests and ensure energy security.

Strengthening Long-Standing Relations

The latest phone call highlights both nations’ desire to strengthen their partnership despite global tensions. As preparations continue for Putin’s visit, discussions are expected to focus on trade, energy cooperation, and defence production.