North India Statesman
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, September 17, 2026, extended heartfelt greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 76th birthday. In a formal message released through the Kremlin and the Russian Embassy in New Delhi, the Russian leader lauded Prime Minister Modi’s stature on the world stage and emphasized his pivotal role in elevating ties between the two nations.
Highlighting the unique bond between New Delhi and Moscow, President Putin stated that it was impossible to overstate the Indian Prime Minister’s personal contribution toward cementing the enduring friendship between the two countries.
‘Great Authority on the Global Stage’: Putin’s Direct Message
In his official congratulatory letter, the Russian President commended Modi’s domestic leadership and expanding geopolitical influence.
“You are rightly enjoying deep respect from your compatriots and great authority on the global stage. It is impossible to overstate your personal contribution to strengthening the special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia,” President Putin stated in his communication to PM Modi.
Putin also looked back at their recent bilateral engagements during his trip to India, expressing appreciation for the traditional hospitality shown to the Russian delegation. “I would like to express my gratitude for the warm and cordial welcome and hospitality extended to me and the Russian delegation during my visit to New Delhi last week. The talks we held were undoubtedly substantive, frank, and productive. As always, it was a genuine pleasure to talk with you, and our discussions once again demonstrated your extraordinary political wisdom and foresight,” the message read.
Reaffirming Strategic Cooperation Amid Changing Geopolitics
The warm diplomatic exchange comes at a critical juncture in international relations, following close on the heels of the 18th BRICS Summit hosted in New Delhi. Both leaders held high-level discussions on expanding multi-sectoral cooperation, regional connectivity corridors, local currency trade settlements, and defense collaboration.
President Putin emphasized that Moscow remains committed to working alongside New Delhi on critical global platforms. “We will, of course, continue our constructive cooperation on pressing bilateral and international issues for the benefit of our friendly nations,” he added, wishing the Indian Prime Minister robust health, well-being, and continued success in public service.
Birthday greetings also poured in from other world leaders, including the United States, highlighting Prime Minister Modi’s ability to maintain balanced, multi-aligned diplomatic relationships with major global powers.
