Russian President Vladimir Putin wrapped up a pivotal two-day state visit to India on Friday, marking his first trip to the country since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in February 2022. The visit, which included the 23rd annual bilateral summit, was underscored by personal diplomatic gestures and resulted in concrete plans to deepen the strategic partnership.
Personal Diplomacy and Symbolic Gestures
Upon his arrival in New Delhi on Thursday evening, President Putin was personally received at the Palam airport by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a break from standard protocol that highlighted the close rapport between the two leaders. The camaraderie was further displayed as the two leaders shared a car ride to the Prime Minister's residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg for a private dinner, a gesture reminiscent of their 'carpooling' moment in Tianjin last year.
Following the dinner, PM Modi presented President Putin with a Russian edition of the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing the scripture's universal message. Earlier on Friday, Putin paid his respects at Rajghat, the memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, laying a wreath in a solemn tribute.
Substance and Strategy: Key Outcomes of the Summit
The core of the visit was the bilateral talks held at Hyderabad House. A significant outcome was the announcement of a new economic cooperation programme with an ambitious goal: expanding bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030. Prime Minister Modi stated that elevating the economic partnership is a common priority for both nations.
In total, 16 agreements were signed across diverse sectors including defence, space exploration, and artificial intelligence. Discussions have also been initiated on a Free Trade Agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union, which comprises Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.
Navigating Global Challenges: Ukraine and Energy
The ongoing war in Ukraine was a central topic. Prime Minister Modi clearly articulated India's position, stating, "India is not neutral. India has a side, and that side is peace." He affirmed India's support for all peaceful initiatives to resolve the conflict.
In response, President Putin expressed gratitude for India's attention to peace efforts. On the economic front, amidst pressure from Western nations regarding India's purchase of Russian oil, Putin sent a clear message, declaring Moscow's readiness to ensure "uninterrupted shipments of fuel to India."
A Partnership Poised for the Future
The visit concluded with a special dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. In his remarks, President Putin invoked PM Modi's signature slogan, "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" (striving together for inclusive growth), applying it to the enduring India-Russia relationship. This first visit since 2021 has successfully reinforced the time-tested ties, setting a concrete roadmap for trade and strategic cooperation while navigating complex global geopolitics.
