His congratulations read, in part:
”Russia greatly respects India's important socio-economic achievements and its balanced foreign policy aimed at creating a democratic, multi-polar world.
We cherish the rich history of our relations, one that has been greatly strengthened in recent years by the Russian-Indian strategic partnership. I am confident that the upcoming bilateral talks at the summit in New Delhi in December 2008 will serve the further development of multifaceted ties between Russia and India for the benefit of our peoples.“