Monday, May 23 2005 08:42 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Moscow: Describing Russia as a "real friend", President A P J Abdul Kalam has said that a resurgent Russia and India can work together for a better life of their people.

"Resurgent Russia and resurgent India can work together to make the life of their people better. We are closely cooperating in various fields. Both countries are in a win-win situation," Kalam, who is on a four-day visit to Russia, said.

"Russia is a real friend, a friend in trouble and a friend in happiness," the President said addressing the members of the local Indian community on Saturday (May 21, 2005) at a reception hosted by India's Ambassador Kanwal Sibal.

Kalam, who arrived in Moscow on Saturday, is the first Indian President to visit Russia since the collapse of Soviet Union.

In his previous capacity Kalam had played a key role in materialising the 'highly successful' Brahmos cruise missiles project with Russia, which is a venture for joint R&D, production and marketing of the unique weapon system.

Reminiscing Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's recent visit to Russia and Russian President Vladimir Putin's tour to India last December, the President noted that his visit is part of the 'intensive partnership' between the two countries.

The President spent more than an hour with the Indian community and after his brief speech answered their questions, covering a whole range of issues from Indo-Russian relations to the problems faced by the Indians. He also promised to reply to their questions by e-mail.

"If they get good marks send them to study in India, if you have a lot of money send them to the West," Kalam replied, when an Indian mother asked where to send her two children for higher education after school.