Vladimir Putin's Visit to India: Strengthening Ties Amid Global Challenges
Putin's Arrival in New Delhi
New Delhi, Dec 4: Russian President Vladimir Putin has landed in New Delhi for a two-day visit focused on enhancing the longstanding India-Russia partnership, which has been in place for nearly 80 years.
Dinner Hosted by Prime Minister Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to host a private dinner for Putin this evening, which will set the stage for the upcoming 23rd annual summit between India and Russia scheduled for Friday.
Agreements on the Horizon
Following the summit, both nations are anticipated to finalize multiple agreements, particularly in trade.
Discussions will likely center around defense relations, strategies to mitigate external pressures on bilateral trade, and potential collaboration on small modular nuclear reactors.
Boosting Indian Exports
Officials have indicated that Indian exports in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, food products, and consumer goods are expected to see substantial growth as part of efforts to rebalance trade between the two countries.
Ceremonial Welcome and Summit Discussions
On Friday morning, Putin will be honored with a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by summit discussions at Hyderabad House, where Modi will also host a working lunch for the Russian delegation.
Additionally, Putin is scheduled to visit Rajghat earlier in the day, according to sources familiar with the itinerary.
Defense Talks and Procurement Plans
The defense ministers of both nations held preliminary discussions on India's plans to acquire more S-400 missile systems, which have proven effective in past operations.
Moscow may also propose supplying Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets, while India continues to assess options like the Rafale, F-21, F/A-18, and Eurofighter Typhoon.
Energy Cooperation and Discounts
Energy collaboration is expected to be a key topic, with Russia likely offering further discounts on crude oil.
Post-Summit Activities
After the summit, Putin will inaugurate the new India channel of Russia's state broadcaster and will be honored at a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu, before departing New Delhi around 9 PM on Friday.
Significance of the Visit
Putin's visit, lasting nearly 28 hours, gains additional importance amid a decline in India-US relations.
Just before arriving in India, he engaged in five hours of discussions with US envoys regarding efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine.
Post-discussion, he described the talks as 'necessary' and 'useful,' albeit 'difficult,' noting that some proposals were unacceptable to the Kremlin.
These comments add a layer of diplomatic complexity to a visit that is capturing global attention as New Delhi and Moscow navigate evolving strategic dynamics.