Putin's Historic Visit to India: Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Putin Arrives in India for Annual Summit
Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to arrive in New Delhi on Thursday evening for the 23rd annual India-Russia summit. This marks his first visit since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in 2022, with his last trip to India occurring in December 2021. The two-day state visit is taking place at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will host a private dinner for President Putin upon his arrival.
Formal Welcome and Discussions Planned
On December 5, Putin will receive a formal welcome at the Presidential Palace, accompanied by a ceremonial guard from the armed forces. Following this, he will pay homage at Mahatma Gandhi's memorial at Raj Ghat. The two leaders will engage in limited-format discussions at Hyderabad House with their respective delegations. The agenda includes several agreements focusing on collaboration in trade, economy, agriculture, and education. According to the Kremlin, the Russian delegation will engage in extensive discussions with their Indian counterparts on political, trade, economic, scientific, technical, and cultural matters. Current international and regional issues will also be part of the discussions, as reported by local media.
Agreements and Business Engagements
As per Russian state media, preparations are underway for the signing of 10 intergovernmental documents and over 15 agreements and memorandums between commercial and non-commercial entities of both nations. Joint press statements will be issued following the talks. Both leaders are expected to participate in a business event organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Roscongress at India Mandapam.
Cultural and Diplomatic Engagements
On Friday evening, President Putin will officially launch the Indian channel of the Russian state broadcaster RT at an event held at ITC Maurya Hotel. Before departing from India, he will attend a state dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at the Presidential Palace. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, this visit provides an opportunity for the leaders of India and Russia to review progress in bilateral relations, emphasize the strengthening of their 'special and privileged strategic partnership,' and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.