India, Sept. 25 -- Amid ongoing trade negotiations between India and the US, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday highlighted the importance of ties between New Delhi and Moscow. Even as the US frowns over India's oil trade with Moscow, Prime Minister said that India is "strengthening the time-tested partnership" with Russia.

He made the remarks at UP International Trade Show in Greater Noida, where the international partner is Russia. Presenting his self-reliance or 'aatmanirbharta' pitch, the PM also said that soon the production of AK-203 rifles would begin in India, "from a factory set up with Russia's help".

"A country like India doesn't want to depend on anyone," PM Modi said. His remarks come days after ties between India and...