What to Expect from Vladimir Putin's Two-Day Visit to India?

Putin's Arrival in New Delhi

New Delhi: On Thursday evening, Russian President Vladimir Putin touched down in New Delhi for a two-day visit aimed at strengthening the longstanding India-Russia partnership, which has endured despite a challenging global political landscape.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to host a private dinner for Putin tonight, establishing a positive atmosphere ahead of the 23rd India-Russia summit scheduled for Friday.

The summit will primarily focus on enhancing defense collaborations, shielding India-Russia trade from external influences, and investigating partnerships in small modular reactors, drawing significant attention from Western nations.

Putin's visit, lasting nearly 27 hours, gains importance amid a noticeable decline in India-US relations. Following the summit, both nations are anticipated to finalize multiple agreements, particularly in trade.

On Friday morning, Putin will receive a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan prior to the summit discussions.

Modi will also organize a working lunch for Putin and his delegation at Hyderabad House, the designated summit venue.

Additionally, Putin plans to visit Rajghat in the morning, as per sources familiar with the itinerary.

After the summit, he is expected to inaugurate the new India channel of the Russian state broadcaster and later attend a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu.

Putin's departure from India is scheduled for around 9 PM on Friday.