News and Events / INDO-RUSSIAN FRIENDSHIP IDEAL AND GENUINE

New Delhi, Aug 14, 2007:Former Union Home Minister and Chairman, National Commission for Scheduled Castes, Dr. Buta Singh, described Indo-Russian friendship as ideal and genuine and a role model apt to be emulated in international relations. He was speaking at a Function: “Two Glorious Jubilees in the History of Indo-Russian Friendship and Cooperation”, dedicated to the 60th Anniversary of Indian Independence and Indo-Russian Diplomatic Relations”, jointly organized by the Russian Centre of Science & Culture (RCSC) and Indian Friendship Societies, Clubs and Associations, at 24, Ferozeshah Road, on August 13, 2007. Addressing an elite gathering the Chief Guest, noted that at a time when India is marking its epoch-making 60th anniversary with remarkable achievements in economy, science and technology passing through great challenges, the country remembers her trusted friend, alley and partner, Russia, during tranquillity as well as adversity. The deep vision of our great leaders, materialized through the establishment of diplomatic relations, took our countries to higher and higher levels of mutual benefits and understanding, he added.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Deputy Director of the RCSC, Mr. Gadzhi M. Akhmedov, pointed out that it was really unique that diplomatic relations between the erstwhile Soviet Union and India were established before the advent of Independence to India and that the successful bilateral cooperation is now perceived as a decisive factor in the international context.

Felicitating the significant anniversary of Indian Independence, Mr. Alexander N. Palchev, Senior Counsellor, Embassy of the Russian Federation, said that India has a won a pride of place in the minds and hearts of the people of Russia, who feel proud of the remarkable achievements made by the people of India in different spheres ever since the advent of independence. Referring to the time-tested relations, he noted that the importance attached to them cuts across party lines in India and is not subject to political vicissitudes. There is a national consensus on the need for a strong and stable relationship with the Russian Federation; a similar consensus that exists in Russia on the close and friendly ties with India, Mr. Palchev added. He underlined the new dimensions added to the relationship in the wake of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India in January, 2007. He described India as a strong force to reckon with and its voice with a deep imprint on world peace in eloquently echoed in international forums.

Gratefully acknowledging the timely help, support and assistance provided by Russia in times of difficulties, Mr. Jai Prakash Agarwar, M.P., and Chairman, Housing Committee, Rajya Sabha, recalled that the momentous occasion reminds the people of India of the crucial role played by Russia in solidifying India’s economic infrastructure. India has an ambitious track record of not only sacrifice and sufferings, but also hard and consistent efforts and outstanding accomplishments and achievements in economy, science and technology, he said. Mr. Agarwal added that India will not bend before any force in the world and no one can beat its prestige, heritage and principles.

The function was followed by a colourful Cultural Programme presented by Russian and Indian dancers drawn from the School of Russian Classical Ballet and Shrada Nritya Niketan, witnessed by more than 400 spectators including eminent guests.