President Pranab Mukherjee has said the role of Russian soldiers and civilians changed the course of World War II, its outcome and the future of the world.
President Mukherjee, who was replying to written questions from ITAR TASS News Agency on the eve of his visit to Russia from May 7 to 11, said it will be an honour to be part of the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of World War II which recognizes the monumental contributions of Russia to the victory over Nazism and Fascism.
The President expressed his delight over the fact that an Indian Military contingent will be part of the victory day parade for the very first time.
"The commemoration reminds us of the need for all countries to strive actively for peace, for the common benefit of humankind and to never forget lessons of the War," he said.