Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin at Delhi's Palam Airport on the evening of December 4, 2025, marking the start of a significant bilateral visit. The Russian leader's arrival sets the stage for high-level discussions aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations.
A Warm Welcome and Guard of Honour
Upon his touchdown in the Indian capital, President Putin was received by PM Modi in a ceremony that underscored the importance of the visit. Armed Forces personnel were present at the airport to accord a ceremonial guard of honour to the distinguished guest. Visuals from the airport, shared by the Press Trust of India, captured the moments leading up to the arrival, highlighting the prepared state for the high-profile reception.
Agenda: Dinner and the 23rd India-Russia Summit
The itinerary for the visit is packed with diplomatic engagements. On the night of his landing, December 4, President Putin will attend a private dinner hosted by Prime Minister Modi. This will be followed by the main event on December 5: the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. The summit is the highest institutional dialogue mechanism between the two countries, where leaders review the entire spectrum of bilateral relations.
The discussions are expected to cover a wide range of issues of mutual interest, including:
- Defence and strategic cooperation, a longstanding pillar of the relationship.
- Trade, economic ties, and investments, with a focus on overcoming challenges posed by global payment mechanisms.
- Energy security, particularly in the realm of oil and nuclear power.
- Regional and global geopolitical developments.
Context and Significance of the Visit
President Putin's visit to India is a closely watched event in international diplomacy. It reaffirms the special and privileged strategic partnership between New Delhi and Moscow, a relationship that has endured for decades. The in-person summit, following a period of virtual interactions, provides a crucial opportunity for both leaders to align their perspectives and chart a future course for cooperation.
The outcomes of the December 5 summit are anticipated to include agreements and joint statements that will define the trajectory of bilateral relations in the coming year. The world will be keenly observing the results, as the India-Russia partnership continues to play a significant role in the evolving global order.
