Putin congratulates Modi on victory

New Delhi, May 19 (IANS) Russian President Vladimir Putin Monday sent a congratulatory message to BJP prime ministerial nominee Narendra Modi on his party's stupendous victory in the general election and said he was convinced that through joint efforts Russia and India would "succeed in augmenting previous achievements".

Modi tweeted his thanks to Putin for his good wishes. "Looking forward to making our relations with Russia even stronger in the years to come," he posted.

"India-Russia friendship has stood the test of time. We will further strengthen our relations in a wide range of fields," he tweeted.

Putin, in his message, said Moscow "highly appreciates the traditionally friendly relations between our countries based on the declaration of strategic partnership", inked in 2000.

"This fundamental document, signed at the time when your party was in power, determined development of our interaction for the years ahead. Impressive results of our fruitful joint work over the time confirmed historic significance of the declaration."

"I am convinced that by joint efforts we will succeed in augmenting the previous achievements," he said.

"From the bottom of my heart, I wish you, esteemed Mr. Modi, every success for the benefit of prosperity of the people of friendly India and comprehensive strengthening of mutually beneficial Russian-India cooperation."