External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar held a significant meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Tuesday, marking a crucial diplomatic engagement ahead of the upcoming India-Russia Annual Summit scheduled for early December.
High-Level Meetings in Moscow
The meeting occurred during a gathering of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) delegation heads, where Dr. Jaishankar joined other leaders in calling on the Russian President. This high-level interaction followed extensive discussions between Jaishankar and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, where both officials conducted a comprehensive review of bilateral and global issues.
Confirming the development through social media, Jaishankar posted on X: "Called on President Putin along with other Heads of SCO Delegations this afternoon." The meeting represents continued momentum in the strategic partnership between the two nations as they approach an important milestone.
Preparations for December Summit Intensify
Simultaneously in New Delhi, parallel diplomatic engagements were underway as Putin's top aide Nikolai Patrushev met Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These discussions focused on enhancing maritime cooperation and finalizing preparations for the upcoming summit, according to official statements.
The Russian Embassy confirmed that both nations have reaffirmed their mutual interest in strengthening defense, maritime, and strategic collaboration. This coordinated approach across two capitals underscores the comprehensive nature of the bilateral relationship.
Strengthening Strategic Partnership
During their meeting, Jaishankar and Lavrov emphasized their commitment to a multipolar world order and continued coordination in multilateral platforms including the United Nations, SCO, BRICS, and G20. The officials also reviewed progress made during the 25th anniversary year of the India-Russia Strategic Partnership.
The upcoming 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit in December will mark President Putin's visit to India, continuing the tradition of high-level exchanges between the two nations. The last meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin occurred during the Tianjin SCO Summit in September.
These synchronized diplomatic activities across Moscow and New Delhi demonstrate the robust and time-tested partnership between India and Russia, with both nations working to enhance cooperation across multiple domains including defense, trade, and strategic affairs.
