Vladimir Putin has dismissed claims that Pakistan is under the influence or direct control of China, saying Islamabad remains an independent and large country with diverse international relations.
Speaking at a press briefing in Moscow with heads of major international news agencies, Vladimir Putin addressed concerns raised by an Indian journalist regarding Pakistan’s growing ties with China. He firmly rejected the idea that Pakistan acts as a proxy of Beijing.
He said Pakistan maintains multifaceted relations with several countries and should not be viewed through a narrow geopolitical lens. According to Vladimir Putin, cooperation between Pakistan and China does not mean political control, as many countries continue to expand ties with Beijing.
Responding to broader questions on South Asia’s security dynamics, Vladimir Putin also discussed the complex relationship between India and China. He described it as delicate and expressed confidence that both sides have the ability to resolve their border issues peacefully without outside mediation.
He further stated that Russia does not intend to interfere in tensions between New Delhi and Beijing, maintaining what he described as a balanced diplomatic approach in the region. He added that Moscow’s relationships with India and China have developed independently over decades.
Vladimir Putin emphasized that Russia’s growing cooperation with China does not come at the cost of its long-standing partnership with India. He said Moscow remains committed to maintaining strategic balance across Asia.
During the briefing, Vladimir Putin also confirmed that Russia has proposed joint cooperation with India on advanced defense technology, including the development and supply of the fifth-generation Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighter jet for the Indian Air Force.
He said Russia is ready to work closely with India on advanced aviation technology and strengthen defense cooperation between the two countries.
