President Vladimir Putin and India's Prime Minister met on Monday

President Vladimir Putin and India's Prime Minister met on Monday for talks expected to focus on increasing economic and military ties between the two nations.

Ties between Moscow and New Delhi have deepened in recent years as India has bought more Russian military hardware. India now ranks alongside China as a top customer for Russia's weaponry.

``Russia is a tried and tested friend of our country. Your contribution to the strengthening of that friendship has been immense,'' Prime Minister Manmohan Singh told Putin in remarks before reporters at the Kremlin.

Putin responded: ``I hope that despite our cold, wintry Moscow weather, you will feel the warmth of our hearts. Our relationship has a long history and today it is developing on the highest pace.''

During Singh's visit, officials are also expected to sign an agreement that would allow Russia to reinvest Indian repayments of its Soviet-era debts in more parts of the Indian economy.
Russia wants to win a contract to supply India with 126 new fighter planes, but top aircraft maker MiG is facing tough competition from U.S., French and Swedish companies.


Courtesy:thehindu.com
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