Prime Minister Modi Welcomes Putin with Gita Gift and Busy Schedule Ahead
Modi Presents Gita to Putin
On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that he gifted a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Vladimir Putin. In a post on social media, Modi stated, "The teachings of the Gita inspire millions around the world." The Prime Minister hosted a dinner for Putin at his residence on 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, during the Russian leader's two-day visit.
Warm Welcome at Palam Airport
Around 7:30 PM on Thursday, Prime Minister Modi greeted President Putin at Palam Airport. The two leaders shared a warm embrace before traveling together in the same car to Modi's residence. Modi expressed his happiness in welcoming his friend, stating, "I am delighted to welcome President Putin to India. I look forward to our discussions this evening and tomorrow. The India-Russia friendship has stood the test of time, benefiting our peoples immensely."
Putin's Busy Schedule on December 5
President Putin's agenda for today is packed with various meetings and visits across Delhi. At 11 AM, he will receive a formal welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Following this, at 11:30 AM, he will pay homage at Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. Subsequently, he is expected to meet Prime Minister Modi at Hyderabad House for a bilateral meeting.
At 1:50 PM, a joint press statement will be issued at Hyderabad House, detailing the key agreements and deals between the two nations. Later, at 3:40 PM, Putin will participate in a business event, likely engaging with prominent Indian business leaders. Finally, at 7 PM, he will meet with Indian President Droupadi Murmu before departing for Russia at 9 PM.
Putin's Remarks on India-Russia Cooperation
Earlier on Thursday, President Putin emphasized that the collaboration between India and Russia is not aimed against any other country, but rather focuses on safeguarding their respective national interests. His comments come amid a backdrop of aggressive posturing from the United States towards both nations. Regarding energy ties, Putin noted that certain elements disapprove of India's growing role in international markets due to its close relationship with Russia, and they are attempting to impose artificial barriers to limit India's influence for political reasons.
In an interview with a private news channel, Putin referred to the Western sanctions against Russia, asserting that the energy cooperation with India remains largely "unaffected." His visit to India coincides with a period of strained relations between India and the U.S., which has imposed a hefty 50% tariff on Indian goods, including a 25% tax on crude oil purchases from Russia.