Vladimir Putin expresses interest to work closely with Modi

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his country's willingness to work closely with prime minister designate Narendra Modi and promised to strengthen economic, military and technical cooperation .

Speaking to a group of journalists from the international media here, Putin reportedly said that the relations between the two countries are above political parties. He said, Russians are friendly with the Indian people and they want to have good relations with India.

He also added that India is an outstanding civilisation and congratulated the country on the recent successful conduct of the general elections. Putin said Russia will make efforts to lift bilateral relations to a higher level.