Fine With India-Russia Talks: U.S

“Does this mean the kind of deals that India has done (with Russia during the just concluded visit of President Vladimir Putin) should not have been done?” the official was asked.

“I would not say that. I understand that there are a range of countries that have relationship with Russia including India,” the official said, acknowledging the history of strong India-Russia relationship.

It is a complicated world, the official said.

“Our relationship with India is incredibly important to us. We have an important economic relationship. You can have a range of discussions behind the scene diplomatically, privately, which you do not necessarily say publicly,” the official said.

Meanwhile, the State Department said Putin’s India visit would have no impact on the visit of President Barack Obama to New Delhi for attending the Republic Day Parade as the chief guest.

“No,” State Department Spokesperson Jen Psaki told reporters, when asked if Putin’s visit would have any impact on Obama’s trip.

“India remains an important partner. Obviously, our economic relationship is a big part of what we continue to work on,” Psaki said.

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