Moscow [Russia], May 13 (HBTV): Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India for the annual bilateral summit following an invitation extended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a recent phone conversation between the two leaders, according to the official website of the Russian President.

The two leaders discussed the strategic depth of the Russia-India relationship, which was described by TV BRICS as a uniquely privileged partnership. President Putin conveyed his condolences to India over the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, and both leaders reaffirmed the urgency of continued cooperation in combating terrorism.

Prime Minister Modi also congratulated President Putin and the people of Russia on the upcoming 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, which he described as a shared legacy between the two nations, as reported by TV BRICS.

The invitation extended by Prime Minister Modi for President Putin to visit India for the traditional annual bilateral summit was warmly accepted by the Russian side, TV BRICS noted.

Meanwhile, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth visited Russia from May 8 to 9 to participate in the Victory Day celebrations held in Moscow on May 9, marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in the Second World War (1941–45).

According to an official release, Minister Seth laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and attended the Victory Day Parade alongside dignitaries from various countries. His participation symbolised the longstanding special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia.

During his visit, the Minister of State also called on President Vladimir Putin and extended India's congratulations on the 80th Victory Day. He held a bilateral meeting with Russian Deputy Defence Minister Colonel General Alexander Fomin, where he expressed gratitude for Russia's support in India's efforts against state-sponsored cross-border terrorism.

The two ministers also reviewed the scope of military and military-technical cooperation and agreed to deepen collaboration within existing institutional frameworks. Both sides committed to continuing regular consultations and strengthening cooperation amid evolving global developments. (ANI)