Vladimir Putin's Significant Visit to India: Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent visit to India marks a significant step in reinforcing the longstanding partnership between the two nations. Welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the visit aims to address key issues such as trade imbalances and strengthen cooperation in various sectors. With a packed schedule, including meetings and a joint press conference, both leaders are set to discuss strategies to enhance economic ties and navigate geopolitical challenges. This visit comes at a crucial time, as tensions rise between India and the United States, making the outcomes of this summit even more pivotal for future relations.
| Dec 5, 2025, 10:22 IST
Putin's Arrival in India
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in India on Thursday for a visit lasting nearly 27 hours, aimed at reinforcing a bilateral partnership that has remained stable for almost eight decades despite global tensions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi warmly welcomed Putin at Palam Airport in New Delhi, highlighting the importance of this visit for India. This marks Putin's first trip to India in four years. The two leaders departed the airport in the same vehicle, reminiscent of their joint travel in Tianjin following the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit three months prior. The timing of Putin's arrival is particularly significant given the escalating tensions between India and the United States. It is anticipated that both sides will sign several agreements, including trade deals, following the summit.
PM Modi's Warm Welcome
PM Modi expressed his joy in welcoming President Putin, stating, "I am very pleased to welcome my friend, President Putin, to India. I look forward to our discussions this evening and tomorrow. The India-Russia friendship has stood the test of time and has greatly benefited our peoples." On the second and final day of Putin's visit, he is scheduled to participate in several important meetings and events in New Delhi. The complete itinerary for the second day of Putin's visit is outlined below.
Itinerary for Putin's Second Day in India
11:00 AM: Formal welcome for the Russian President at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
11:30 AM: Putin will visit Raj Ghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi.
11:50 AM: Meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House.
1:50 PM: Joint press conference with PM Modi at Hyderabad House.
3:40 PM: Addressing the India-Russia Business Forum.
7:00 PM: Meeting with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
9:00 PM: Departure for Russia.
Significance of Putin's Visit
Experts have commented on the importance of Putin's visit, anticipating strengthened cooperation in defense, trade, science and technology, as well as cultural and humanitarian matters. Former diplomat Arun Singh noted that the India-Russia partnership has long been recognized for Moscow's consistent political and defense support for New Delhi.
Focus on Deepening India-Russia Relations
At Hyderabad House, the main agenda revolves around economic recalibration, as both leaders work to deepen their special and privileged strategic partnership while safeguarding bilateral trade against external sanctions and geopolitical uncertainties.
Addressing the significant trade imbalance caused by increased imports of Russian oil is a key priority for India. This summit is expected to pave the way for a substantial rise in Indian exports.
The leaders are set to announce a long-term program aimed at developing strategic sectors of Russian-Indian economic cooperation by 2030, with an ambitious bilateral trade target of $100 billion by the end of the decade. This plan will emphasize new opportunities for Indian businesses to expand their presence in the Russian market, particularly in pharmaceuticals, automobiles, agriculture, and marine products.
The large Russian business delegation indicates Moscow's desire to diversify imports away from Europe and address New Delhi's concerns regarding the existing trade deficit. Expected outcomes include several intergovernmental agreements and commercial deals covering shipping, healthcare, fertilizers, and connectivity.
Putin's Remarks on India-Russia Cooperation
Earlier, President Putin stated that the cooperation between India and Russia is not aimed against any country and is solely focused on protecting the national interests of both nations. He made these comments against the backdrop of the aggressive stance of the United States towards India and Russia. Regarding energy relations with India, Putin noted that certain "elements" dislike India's growing role in international markets due to its close ties with Russia and are attempting to create "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." Putin arrived in New Delhi for a two-day visit to hold summit talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a time when India-U.S. relations are possibly at their lowest point in two decades, with the U.S. imposing a hefty 50% tariff on Indian goods, including a 25% tax on crude oil purchases from Russia.
Conclusion
Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin to India. Looking forward to our interactions later this evening and tomorrow. India-Russia friendship is a time tested one that has greatly benefitted our people.@KremlinRussia_E pic.twitter.com/L7IORzRfV9
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2025