MOSCOW, January 24, 2004. /RIA Novosti/. Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on India's national holiday, the Republic Day, the Kremlin press service told RIA Novosti.
"India has reached impressive successes in various spheres over the period of independence on the basis of the richest cultural and historic heritage. Due to its high authority, your country is playing an important positive role in world affairs.
Russia and India boast lasting relations of friendship and trust and mutual striving for the consolidation of strategic partnership. I am convinced that we shall continue developing constructive cooperation for the welfare of our peoples, international peace and security," reads Vladimir Putin's message of congratulation.
