‘I thank those who have expressed solidarity with us’

The Russian Embassy, along with the diplomatic missions of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, and Uzbekistan, recently hosted the Victory Day reception. Featuring wartime compositions by the Song and Dance Ensemble of the Russian Navy’s Northern Fleet, the evening saw External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar – chief guest at the event – express gratitude to nations that have stood in solidarity with India amid current tensions.‘WE MEET AT A TIME WHEN INDIA IS CONFRONTING THE CHALLENGE OF TERRORISM’Hailing the event as “an endorsement of our diplomatic endeavours be it bilateral, regional or multilateral”, S Jaishankar said, “It’s a great pleasure to join you all on this occasion to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the war over fascism in 1945. It is hard to overstate the importance of such a momentous event. The contribution that Indians made to this defining event is wellknown... We also meet at a time when India is confronting the challenge of terrorism that is a shared threat to the international community. I thank those who have expressed solidarity with us and understand the resolute response that is underway. Friends, today is an occasion for hope and optimism as also for remembrance underpinned by the conviction that international cooperation is even more important than ever before.”‘WE HONOUR THE STRENGTH AND GALLANTRY OF OUR ALLIES’In his address, Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov noted the contribution of Indian soldiers and officers who fought alongside the allies. He said, “I address you tonight not only in my own capacity but also on behalf of our fellow ambassadors with whom we cohost this solemn reception... It is the occasion to salute the courage, the endurance and the resourcefulness of all who fought and worked for the victory soldiers, sailors, doctors, nurses, farmers and everyone else. We honour the strength and gallantry of our allies who did so much to make the victory possible.”