Bhubaneswar, Dec. 5 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is on a visit to India, has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, as he stands firm and does not bow down to pressure from any country.

"Prime Minister Modi is not someone who succumbs to pressure easily. The Indian people can certainly take pride in their leader," said Putin.

Outlining similar goals of Russia and India, the President said, "Our goal is not to provoke conflict; rather, we aim to protect our lawful rights. India does the same."

Putin described his relationship with PM Modi as both professional and personal. He called PM Modi a leader who sets "very challenging tasks" and drives India's high-growth trajectory with key initiatives like Make in India...