Russia's Putin hails India as a 'great country', recognises it as global superpower with rapid growth (WATCH)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday highlighted India's position as a "natural ally" and an enduring partner for Russia, underlining the shared history, trust, and cooperation between the two nations. Addressing the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin expressed his admiration for India, calling it a "great country" and acknowledged India's rapid economic growth and potential as a global superpower. In his address, Putin emphasised Russia’s expanding ties with India, noting that bilateral cooperation is advancing "in all directions" with trade turnover approaching USD 60 billion. He reiterated the Soviet Union’s historic support for India’s independence, which he said laid the foundation for the close, trusting relationship the two countries enjoy today. Also read: 'Trump can claim Nobel Peace Prize if...': Putin's men hope his presidency will give Russia an edge in Ukraine "We are developing our ties with India in all directions. India is a great country. It is a leader in terms of economic growth among large economies, with its GDP posting an annual growth of 7.4 per cent," Putin told the plenary session at the Valdai Discussion Club, as per TASS news outlet. "Our vision of where and at what pace our relations will develop is based on today's realities. The volume of our cooperation is multiplying year after year," Putin was cited by the news agency.