President Vladimir Putin concluded his significant visit to India with a powerful gesture of diplomatic alignment, publicly adopting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's iconic development mantra. At a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu on December 6, 2025, the Russian leader framed the enduring bilateral relationship through the lens of India's philosophy of collective growth.
A Mantra for Mutual Growth
In his parting address, President Putin articulated that the principle of "go together, grow together" perfectly encapsulates the foundation of Russia-India relations. This direct reference to PM Modi's "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" (Together with All, Development for All) was seen as a profound symbolic nod, highlighting a shared vision for partnership. Putin emphasized that the ties between the two nations are built on a bedrock of equality and mutual respect, distinguishing it from transactional global relationships.
Celebrating a Legacy, Building a Future
The Russian President took stock of the long arc of cooperation, tracing it from the Soviet-era industrial and technological support to modern-day collaborations spanning politics, security, transport, energy, and cultural exchanges. He described his recent meetings with the Indian leadership as highly productive, setting a positive trajectory for the future.
Putin reaffirmed Moscow's commitment to working closely with New Delhi in various global forums. He stressed a shared objective of fostering a multipolar world order, anchored in the central role of the United Nations and the balanced consideration of all nations' interests. This vision aligns closely with India's own stance on global governance.
Strategic Partnership and the Road to BRICS 2026
The visit coincided with the celebration of 15 years of the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia. Expressing confidence in the relationship's momentum, Putin stated that the new agreements signed during this visit would significantly enhance connectivity and economic synergy across the Eurasian region.
Looking ahead, he pointed to India's upcoming presidency of the BRICS grouping in 2026 as a pivotal moment. The collaborative work between Moscow and Delhi is expected to be a cornerstone for promoting peace and shared prosperity in the lead-up to and during this important tenure.
The invocation of PM Modi's signature phrase, coupled with substantive discussions on strategic and economic fronts, marks this visit as one that blended symbolism with concrete plans to deepen one of India's most time-tested international relationships.
