Russian President Vladimir Putin has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to help end the Ukraine conflict, saying the Indian leader has “very good ideas” for a mutually acceptable settlement.

Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Moscow on Thursday, Putin said Modi raises the issue at every bilateral meeting despite the two countries’ close and friendly relations.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi is one of those world leaders who, despite our very good and even friendly relations, constantly raises the question about putting an end to the conflict in Ukraine,” Putin said.

He added that Modi takes a keen interest in the matter and that Russia is grateful for his ideas and his desire to end the conflict peacefully and as quickly as possible.

Putin also expressed appreciation for India’s scale and cultural diversity, saying the country never fails to amaze.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Putin’s remarks, made on Gandhi Jayanti, showed India had emerged as a trusted voice for global peace under Modi’s leadership.

Modi last met Putin on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in New Delhi in September, where he reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy are the way forward.