The Hindu : National : "Indians contributed to Nazi defeat"

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Wednesday, May 11, 2005

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National

"Indians contributed to Nazi defeat"

Diplomatic Correspondent

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Tuesday that the celebration of Victory Day in World War II in Moscow was an "occasion of significance" for us in India as well, since over two million Indian men contributed to the defeat of Nazism.

A prepared statement, distributed on board his special aircraft, said May 9 was a day of historical resonance. "It is an occasion of significance for us in India as well, since over two million Indian men contributed to this effort, and several thousand Indian lives were lost in attaining the final victory over fascism."

Referring to his presence at the Victory Day parade in Moscow on Monday, the Prime Minister stated: "The pain of the country which has lost more than 26 million people to war is deep and real even today. I felt honoured by the invitation extended by President Vladimir Putin to be ... in Moscow and to pay tribute to the courage and bravery of the people of Russia whose suffering during the years of World War II was unparalleled."

"I know how poignant is the observance of Victory Day in Russia, and I was moved by the grief and emotion this event still arouses," he said.

India being asked to attend this event was reflective of the close relationship it enjoyed with Russia. Dr. Singh said he appreciated the fact that Mr. Putin took time off to have a bilateral meeting with him on Monday. "Let me say that it was an extremely warm and positive meeting, though brief. President Putin told me that India is special for Russia..."

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