India Defends PM Modi's Moscow Visit Amid US Criticism

India firmly rejected U.S. concerns over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Moscow, asserting that all nations have the freedom of choice in a multipolar world. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized India's longstanding relationship with Russia. U.S. officials expressed disappointment over the visit's timing and symbolism.

India on Thursday firmly rejected Washington's apprehensions over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Moscow, underlining the "freedom of choice" for all countries in a multipolar world and urging everyone to acknowledge such realities.

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized India's enduring relationship with Russia, rooted in mutual interests. His remarks came in response to U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, Donald Lu's, comments on the visit.

Lu had expressed disappointment over the visit's symbolism and timing as the U.S. hosted a NATO summit, while acknowledging Modi's frank stance on the Ukraine conflict. Despite U.S. criticism, India maintained its principle of strategic autonomy.

(With inputs from agencies.)