The conversation focused on the United States’ decision to quit the 1972 ABM Treaty. Mr Putin outlined possible scenarios for strategic stability and international security following the step by the US administration.
In turn, Mr Vajpayee, after expressing his understanding of and support for Russia’s position, indicated that both parties had underscored the crucial importance of the treaty for strategic stability at their Moscow summit in October. And this position, he said, remained unchanged.
The sides stressed their desire to prevent a destabilisation of the international situation and to carry on the work of establishing a reliable many-sided system of international security.
Mr Putin expressed his condolences at the tragic consequences of the terrorist act perpetrated in New Delhi on the same day.