Sunday, December 4 2005 12:25 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: Embarking on a three-day visit to Moscow, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today (Dec 4,2005) said India and Russia hoped to build a long-term partnership in energy security and he would explore with President Vladimir Putin ways to enhance trade and investments.

In a statement before his departure, Singh, who will be having his fourth meeting with Putin this year, said he looked forward to reviewing all key aspects of bilateral ties during during wide-ranging talks with the Russian President.

Singh was seen off at his Race Course Road residence by Defense Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Home Minister Shivraj Patil and other ministerial colleagues.

Describing India-Russia relationship as an important factor in the creation of a secure and stable multipolar world, the Prime Minister said, "My mission is to work with our Russian friends to reinforce the already strong framework of this important relationship."