Putin pitches for increased cooperation with India

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday pitched for increased cooperation with India as Prime Minister Narendra Modi met him here for about 90-minutes, during which the two leaders discussed a host of issues, including market access issues and “challenges” to visa.

“I am looking forward to developing the cooperation (between the two countries),” Putin said during the meeting with Modi, soon after the Indian leader’s arrival here for a three-day visit to attend BRICS and SCO Summits.

He said he was very interested in Indian culture.

Modi, who is here primarily for BRICS and SCO Summits, thanked Putin for the welcome he got on his arrival earlier in the day.

The Prime Minister, while talking about the close relationship between India and Russia, said he will be visiting this country again later this year for the annual bilateral Summit meeting.

He thanked Putin with regard to the celebrations of Yoga Day on June 21 in Russia. He said it was held in all cities of Russia. Yoga will provide holistic healthcare to the new generation in the world, Modi said.