PUTIN RANKS INDIA AS A POTENTIAL SUPER POWER

RIDING HIGH | Says India has unique qualitative relations with Kremlin

India deserves to be included in the list of global superpowers, as its economy is currently growing faster than in any other country, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared.

Putin, addressing the plenary session of the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi on Thursday, also said Russia is developing relations with India in all directions and there is a great degree of trust in bilateral ties.

"I think everyone knows very well what role the Soviet Union and Russia played in India gaining its independence, how we supported the Indian people for decades. During this time, we have developed unique relations with the Indian people in terms of their quality and level of trust. I will say this frankly in this context. As far as we understand, as far as we feel, and on the part of our Indian friends, such a national consensus exists regarding the development of relations with Russia, with our country." Putin remarked.

"India should undoubtedly be added to the list of superpowers, with its billion-and-a-half population, the fastest growth among all economies in the world, ancient culture and very good prospects for further growth," he said.