SANN News
Today’s interaction between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who met again on Indian soil after four years, is considered an important moment to re-evaluate the old friendship in the changing world order, rather than a diplomatic formality. Prime Minister Modi broke protocol and personally welcomed President Putin, who was visiting India for the first time since December 2021. Both leaders traveled in the same car and reached the Prime Minister’s residence on Lokkalyan Marg.
The Prime Minister gifted the Russian guest a copy of the holy Bhagavad Gita translated into Russian, saying that this scripture will inspire millions of people around the world. The atmosphere was further enhanced by traditional dances as the Prime Minister welcomed Putin with a hug at Palam Airport. Prime Minister Modi said that he was happy to welcome President Putin again, calling the India-Russia friendship “time-tested”.
President Putin will be in India till December 5 (Friday) and will hold detailed talks with Prime Minister Modi at the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. Before that, he is scheduled to receive a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, receive the Tri-Service Guard of Honour and pay homage at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial at Rajghat. The two leaders will have limited and extended talks at Hyderabad House.
Former diplomat Arun Singh said that Putin’s visit is very important as India-Russia relations are based on political support, defence cooperation and traditional trust. According to him, Russia’s continued support for India in the UN Security Council has further strengthened the lasting partnership between the two countries.
In an interview before his departure for India, President Putin praised Prime Minister Modi’s steadfast leadership, clear vision and ability to resist external pressure, describing India as a major world power. He said that his relationship with Modi is based on trust and long-term cooperation, both at the professional and personal levels. Since this is Putin’s first foreign trip since the start of the Ukraine conflict, the visit is also being watched with special attention in the international arena.
The two countries are expected to sign a number of agreements on expanding cooperation in trade, defense, science and technology, agriculture, education, and cultural and humanitarian sectors. Both the Kremlin and the Indian Ministry of External Affairs have said that Putin’s visit will further strengthen the special and privileged strategic partnership, provide an opportunity to review bilateral progress, and exchange views on global and regional issues.
