Vladimir Putin invites Narendra Modi to visit Russia, discusses Ukraine issue during meeting with S Jaishankar

"We will be happy to see our friend, Prime Minister Modi in Russia," Putin was quoted as saying in a statement.

Putin referred to India's upcoming general elections, which is slated to occur next year, and said: "I realise that next year, India’s domestic political calendar is not simple. It is complicated considering that India will hold general elections to parliament."

"We wish success to our friends in India. We believe we will maintain our traditional friendly ties in any alignment of political forces," he said.

Putin and Jaishankar also discussed the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict during their meeting.

He said: "We know the position of Prime Minister Modi and have talked about this more than once. I am referring to his position, his attitude to complicated processes, including hot spots, the situation in Ukraine."

"I have repeatedly informed him about the situation around this conflict. I know about his striving to resolve this problem through peaceful means," Putin said.

Putin said India and Russia's trade relationship is growing at a 'confident' pace.

"This year, the growth rates were even higher than last year," he said.

"We are working together in high-tech areas, and we are very pleased to note that despite the current turbulences in the world, relations with our traditional friends in Asia, with India and the Indian people are making steady headway, he said.

  Following his meeting with the President, Jaishankar wrote on X: "Honoured to call on President Vladimir Putin this evening. Conveyed the warm greetings of PM @narendramodi and handed over a personal message."

"Apprised President Putin of my discussions with Ministers Manturov and Lavrov. Appreciated his guidance on the further developments of our ties," he said.

S. Jaishankar is visiting Russia on December 25-29 as a part of the ongoing high-level exchanges between the two sides.