New Delhi — Four years after their last in-person meeting in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in the national capital, a visit marked by ceremonial warmth and strategic purpose.
Putin arrived on Thursday and was personally welcomed by Modi at Palam Airport. The leaders embraced as traditional Indian dance troupes performed, then shared a car ride to the Prime Minister’s residence at Lok Kalyan Marg. Modi presented Putin with a Russian translation of the Bhagavad Gita; on social media he described the India-Russia relationship as a ‘‘time-tested’’ friendship that benefits both peoples and called the Gita a source of inspiration for millions.
This is Putin’s first trip to India since the Ukraine conflict began in 2022. The visit, which runs through December 5, was made at Modi’s invitation and includes the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. Formalities planned before bilateral talks include a ceremonial welcome and a tri-services guard of honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan and a visit to Raj Ghat. Modi and Putin will hold restricted-format talks and meet with their delegations at Hyderabad House.
Officials say the agenda spans defence, trade and the economy, science and technology, agriculture, academia, and cultural and humanitarian cooperation. The Kremlin said comprehensive discussions are expected on political, economic, scientific and cultural issues as well as regional and international developments. India’s Ministry of External Affairs framed the visit as an opportunity to review bilateral progress, set a vision for strengthening the ‘‘Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership,’’ and exchange views on matters of mutual interest.
Former diplomat Arun Singh noted the historical depth of India-Russia ties, including Moscow’s political and defence support for New Delhi at forums such as the UN Security Council. Speaking to Indian media, Putin praised Modi’s leadership and described their relationship as both professional and personal, rooted in mutual trust. The two-day state visit is expected to reinforce ties and produce agreements across multiple areas of cooperation. Reported by ANI.
