In a significant diplomatic event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended a personal welcome to Russian President Vladimir Putin at Delhi's Palam Airport, commencing the Russian leader's two-day state visit to India. The Prime Minister's gesture of receiving his counterpart at the tarmac underscored the importance New Delhi attaches to the bilateral relationship.
A Warm Welcome and Tight Security
The Russian President's aircraft touched down in the Indian capital shortly after PM Modi arrived at the airport. The two leaders greeted each other with a handshake and a warm embrace, a moment captured by cameras and highlighting their personal rapport. They later departed from the airport in the same vehicle, a symbolic act reflecting the close strategic partnership between the two nations.
The arrival was marked by a ceremonial setup that included flex boards and Russian flags around the airbase. Security was stringent, with a multi-layered grid deployed by a combined force of the Delhi Police, India's Special Protection Group (SPG), and Russian security personnel.
Agenda: The 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit
The core of the visit is the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit, which the two leaders will co-chair. During the summit, the nations are poised to sign more than 10 inter-governmental agreements and over 15 commercial Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). Government sources indicate the discussions will focus on expanding cooperation across several critical sectors.
The key areas on the agenda include:
- Trade expansion and connectivity
- Healthcare and pharmaceutical cooperation
- Fertiliser supplies and agriculture
- Shipping and mobility partnerships
Defence Ties and "Time-Proven Friendship"
Ahead of the high-profile visit, the strength of the bilateral defence relationship was emphasized by both sides. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that despite global uncertainties, India-Russia defence cooperation "is moving at a healthy pace." He highlighted ongoing military exchanges and welcomed progress toward a Free Trade Agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union.
Echoing the sentiment, Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov referred to India as a partner bound by "a solid, time-proven friendship" rooted in mutual respect and cultural affinity. This mutual affirmation sets a positive tone for the strategic dialogue.
During his stay, President Putin's itinerary includes attending a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu. He is also scheduled to launch the Indian edition of the Russian media network RT at a Delhi event and will pay his respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.
The visit places the spotlight on the enduring India-Russia relationship at a time of significant global flux, with both nations seeking to deepen economic and strategic engagement while navigating complex international dynamics.
