Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a grand state banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, invoked Prime Minister Narendra Modi's signature motto to describe the deepening bond between the two nations. The event, held on Friday, December 5, 2025, marked a significant moment in bilateral ties, emphasizing a joint commitment to shaping a more equitable international system.
A Partnership Guided by Shared Principles
In his address, flanked by PM Modi and Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan, President Putin directly referenced the Indian leader's philosophy. "In India, you say go together, grow together. These words truly reflect the character and the nature of the India-Russian relations, and we will do everything to ensure our strategic partnership grows for the good of our people," he stated. He emphasized that the partnership is built on a foundation of equality, respect, and mutual consideration of interests.
Putin described the talks held over his two-day visit as "genuinely open and constructive." He concluded with a powerful statement on their collaborative global vision: "Russia and India are working together to establish a fairer and just world order." This visit is particularly notable as it coincides with the 25th anniversary of the India-Russia Strategic Partnership, established in October 2000 during Putin's first presidential visit to India.
Celebrating a Historic Milestone
Welcoming the Russian delegation, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the historic significance of the occasion. She noted that the enduring partnership is guided by a shared commitment to peace, stability, and mutual socio-economic and technological advancement. President Murmu affirmed that the Joint Statement issued from the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit reflects the special and privileged nature of the relationship between the two countries.
She also took a moment to reflect on the deep cultural and intellectual connections that span centuries. This rich history includes ancient trade routes, the inspiring correspondence between Mahatma Gandhi and Russian writer Leo Tolstoy, and a lasting mutual admiration for each other's cultural, literary, and artistic heritage.
A Banquet Reflecting Indian Diversity
The ceremonial banquet was attended by a host of Union Ministers including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, among others. The menu was a celebration of Indian culinary diversity, served in a traditional thali style.
The feast featured regional delicacies from across the country:
- Sheermal and a morel dish from Kashmir.
- Gur sandesh, a sweet from West Bengal.
- The popular South Indian snack, murukku.
The evening was further enriched by a musical showcase performed by the Rashtrapati Bhavan Naval Band, adding to the grandeur of the diplomatic event. The gathering underscored the multifaceted nature of the India-Russia relationship, spanning strategic dialogue, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange.
