New Delhi, Dec. 3 -- Congress leader Salman Khurshid on Wednesday welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to India, seeing it as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties.

Khurshid emphasised India's global standing, stating that the country is not alone and has strong friendships.

Speaking to ANI, Salman Khurshid said, "...In this time of turmoil around the world, this is a great opportunity to reconnect with old friends whom you know well and trust completely... The message will also go out everywhere that India is not alone; the friendship that has traditionally existed in India remains intact; so, when you speak to India, do so with the knowledge that India is not alone..."

President Putin will visit India from...