Russian President Vladimir Putin extended birthday greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 17, 2026, praising his contribution to strengthening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.
In his birthday message, Putin said that Prime Minister Modi enjoys deep respect among his compatriots and has significant authority on the global stage. He also highlighted Modi’s personal contribution to the development of the strategic partnership between the two countries.
Putin also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him and the Russian delegation during their recent visit to New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit. The Russian president described the discussions held during the visit as substantive, frank and productive.
The Russian president further referred to the importance of continuing constructive cooperation between India and Russia on bilateral and international issues. His message comes shortly after his September visit to New Delhi, where he met Prime Minister Modi on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit.
During the September 11 meeting, the two leaders reviewed bilateral cooperation across several areas, including political relations, trade, defence, energy and space, while also discussing regional and international developments. Putin also invited Prime Minister Modi to Russia for the 24th India-Russia Annual Summit, with the dates to be decided through diplomatic channels.
The birthday message therefore comes at a time when India and Russia are continuing discussions aimed at maintaining momentum in their long-standing strategic relationship. Defence cooperation remains one of the important components of the broader partnership, alongside economic, energy, space and diplomatic engagement.
Prime Minister Modi, who turned 76 on September 17, also expressed gratitude for the birthday wishes, affection and blessings he received from people across India. He said that the messages of warmth were deeply cherished and thanked those involved in service activities marking the occasion.
Putin’s message highlights the continued diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Moscow following the Russian president’s recent visit to India and the discussions held during the BRICS Summit.