Moscow: Russian President Dmitry Medvedev
has sent greetings to President Pratibha Patil on her 75th
birthday and reaffirmed Moscow's policy to develop friendly
ties with New Delhi.
"In Russia, you are deeply respected as an
influential politician who personally contributes to
socio-economic development of India and strengthening its
international authority," Medvedev wrote to Patil.
Recalling their meetings with Patil Medvedev wrote:
"I have warm memories of our meeting in New Delhi in December
2008 which took place in an atmosphere of openness and trust
so typical for our bilateral relations in general.
Your recent visit to Moscow rightfully became a major
element of the Year of India in Russia.
"The Russian President also lauded Patil's 'courage'
for becoming the first female head of state to undertake
flight on a combat jet recently.
"I would like to once again express my admiration with
your courage which you demonstrated when making a flight in a
Russian supersonic Su-30MKI fighter plane which symbolises
multifaceted Russian-Indian cooperation," Medvedev wrote in
his message excerpts of which were released here by the
Kremlin.
He reaffirmed ties with India as Moscow's foreign
policy priority.
"The continuous development of friendly ties with
India has always been a priority for the Russian foreign
policy which was confirmed once more by the successful visit
of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Russia few days
ago," Medvedev wrote.
The Russian President also exuded confidence that the
agreements reached during the Indo-Russian summit on December
7 will significantly contribute to further extension of the
bilateral strategic partnership.
PTI
First Published: Saturday, December 19, 2009, 21:18