Russian President Vladimir Putin officially visited India, took part in the 13^th Annual India-Russia Summit on Monday, and held talks with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to strengthen defense and trade cooperation. The same day, the two countries’ officials signed 10 agreements, including new defense agreements worth 2.9 billion USD. Russia will sell New Delhi 42 supermaneuverable Sukhoi Su-30 fighter aircraft worth 1.6 billion USD and supply 71 medium twin-turbine Mil Mi-17 transport helicopters worth 1.3 billion USD. Putin said in an article “the deepening of friendship and cooperation with India” was among Russia’s “top priorities” in foreign policy. He wrote: "The strategic nature of partnership between India and Russia is witnessed by the unprecedented level of our military and technical cooperation" adding that "the joint development of advanced armaments” would be key to future relations. The Indian Foreign Ministry issued a statement ahead of Putin’s visit indicating that since Russia and India signed the “Declaration on Strategic Partnership” in October, 2000, the bilateral relationship has developed significantly through increasing political and economic cooperation.