Russian President Vladimir Putin touched down in New Delhi on the evening of December 4, 2025, marking a significant moment for bilateral diplomacy. India rolled out the red carpet for the visiting leader, who is here for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.
A Personal Touch: Modi's Protocol-Breaking Welcome
In a gesture highlighting the personal chemistry and the importance India places on the relationship, Prime Minister Narendra Modi broke from standard protocol to welcome President Putin. The Indian leader greeted him at the airport with a warm hug, foregoing the usual formal handshake. The camaraderie continued as the two heads of state opted for a shared car ride from the airport, setting the tone for the high-stakes talks to follow.
Agenda for the Summit: Defence, Trade, and Strategic Autonomy
The summit comes at a crucial juncture in global geopolitics. The detailed discussions between PM Modi and President Putin are expected to cover a wide range of critical issues aimed at bolstering the special and privileged strategic partnership between the two nations.
Key areas on the table include:
- Defence and Security: Negotiations on new and ongoing defence deals, including the supply of spare parts, technology transfer, and joint manufacturing projects.
- Trade and Economic Ties: Efforts to significantly boost bilateral trade, with a focus on overcoming barriers posed by Western sanctions against Russia.
- Energy Security: Discussions on increasing Russian oil and gas exports to India, a major point of cooperation since the Ukraine conflict.
- Investment Flows: Exploring avenues to enhance investments in sectors ranging from infrastructure to technology.
- Rupee-Rouble Mechanism: A critical review of the payment system established to facilitate trade in national currencies, bypassing the US dollar and SWIFT network.
State Hospitality and the Bigger Picture
Beyond the working sessions, President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to host a state banquet in honour of President Putin, underlining the official warmth of the visit. This summit is closely watched globally, as it underscores India's steadfast commitment to an independent foreign policy. Amid the ongoing war in Ukraine and intense pressure from Western sanctions on Moscow, New Delhi has consistently worked to strengthen its ties with Russia, balancing its relationships while safeguarding its own national interest and energy needs.
The outcomes of this 2025 summit are poised to shape the trajectory of one of India's most enduring and complex strategic relationships for the coming years.
