The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has congratulated Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on his victory in the presidential elections in Russia.

The text of the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's congratulatory message is as follows:
 
"I have the honour to convey my warmest felicitations following Your Excellency's impressive victory in the presidential elections held in Russia on March 4. Your success in these elections is an affirmation by the Russian people of your vision of a strong, prosperous and democratic Russia.

India and Russia have enjoyed the strongest of relations in recent years. We have always recognised Your Excellency as a special friend of India and deeply appreciated the personal commitment and attention that you have brought to nurturing the India-Russia strategic partnership over the last 12 years. It is a matter of great satisfaction that both our countries share a common vision on a range of international issues and that our partnership contributes substantially to international peace and security.

As you prepare to assume your new responsibilities, I look forward to working closely with Your Excellency to strengthen further our strong and close relationship. I also look forward to welcoming Your Excellency in India later this year for the next India-Russia Summit."