Modi and Putin Share Car to Nomad Games After SCO Talks

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin travelled in the same car to the opening ceremony of the VI World Nomad Games at Bishkek Arena, a gesture reflecting the warmth of ties between the two leaders. The two travelled together after their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek.

During the meeting, Modi reiterated India's support for peaceful efforts to resolve the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which began in February 2022. "Every day spent in war sets humanity back, whereas every step taken towards peace fills humanity with new hope and enthusiasm. We must move away from endless war and an end to the war. This is essential for the well-being of humanity," Modi said.

He added, "We have consistently discussed the issue of Ukraine. When we met previously, you briefed me in detail on all aspects of the matter. As you know, India supports all efforts towards peace and will continue to do so. A peaceful resolution to all issues at the earliest is the call of humanity, and this is India's message. The land of Gandhi and the land of Buddha share a single message — the path of peace."

Modi also recalled his remark at the 2022 SCO Summit in Samarkand, where he had said, "Today's era is not an era of war." That statement was widely noted and lauded by global leaders.

According to Russian state news agency TASS, Putin met Modi at the Aksakal Meeting Room at the Bishkek Ala Archa State Residence, with the Russian president accompanied by a delegation that included ministers and other senior officials. At the start of the meeting, Putin noted that relations between Russia and India were continuing to grow stronger.

Translating Putin's words, an interpreter said, "I would like to note with satisfaction that Russian-Indian relations continue to strengthen on the basis of the principles of a special and privileged partnership. Distinguished Prime Minister, this is aided by your special attention to Russian-Indian relations and the business and friendly relations that have been established between us. I am very grateful to you for that."

Russia remains one of India's key strategic partners, particularly in the defence and energy sectors.