Vladimir Putin calls India 'privileged strategic partner'

He said this in an interview ahead of his visit to Goa to attend the BRICS Summit

President Vladimir Putin on Thursday described India as Russia's "privileged strategic partner".

"India is Russia's especially privileged strategic partner," Putin told IANS in an interview ahead of his visit to Goa to attend the BRICS Summit.

"Cooperation between our countries is making good headway in all areas on the basis of strong traditions of friendship, trust and mutual respect," Putin said in response to questions from IANS.