Amid LAC faceoff, Russian Embassy shares video reminder of victory over China in 1860

In a big strategic signal, Russian Embassy in India on Friday tweeted a video celebrating 160th anniversary of founding of Vlivostok. As this city was under Chinese control until 1860, it evoked a backlash from social media users in China. In this battle, trio of Russia, France, and Britain h defeated China.

However, some people in China claimed that this land was annexed by Russia during Tsar era after country's defeat in Second Opium War. tweet assumes significance at a juncture when India and China are involved in a faceoff at Line of Actual Control. This is being perceived as a manifestation of 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' between India and Russia. 

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PM Modi dials Russian President Vlimir Putin

In a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vlimir Putin on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated him on successful completion of vote on constitutional amendments in Russia.  victory in referendum allows Putin two ditional possible six-year terms as President after 2024. Lauding  celebrations marking 75th anniversary of victory in Second World War, PM termed participation of an Indian contingent in Victory Day Pare on June 24 as a symbol of "abiding friendship" between India and Russia.

Both leers discussed effective measures taken by ir respective countries to dress negative consequences of COVID-19 pandemic. On this occasion, y agreed to have a closer India-Russia relationship for jointly tackling challenges of post-COVID world. PM Modi conveyed his keenness to welcome President Putin in India for annual bilateral Summit later in 2020. During conversation, Russian President reiterated his commitment to strengn  'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' between two nations in all spheres.

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Meanwhile, Defence Acquisition Council under Chairmanship of Rajnath Singh approved acquisitions of various equipment approximately worth Rs.38,900 crore for Armed Forces. India has decided to procure 21 MiG-29 fighter jets and seek upgration of existing 59 MiG-29 fighter aircraft from Russia. This is estimated to cost Rs.7,418 crore. During his recent visit to Moscow, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh revealed that all Indian proposals h received a positive response from Russian side.