State Dinner in New Delhi: Putin, Modi and Murmu Gather

A state dinner was held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, featuring Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and President Draupadi Murmu. The event highlighted the ongoing diplomatic ties between India and Russia.

Key dignitaries present at the dinner included Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, and Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh. Footage from the event showcased the leaders engaging in discussions amidst a backdrop of cultural exchange and diplomacy.

Earlier in the day, President Putin attended the launch of the Russian media network RT in India, marking the channel's entry into the Indian market. This move is seen as a strategic effort to enhance media presence and influence in the country.

During the state dinner, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented several diplomatic gifts to President Putin. Among the gifts were fine Assam black tea and an intricately carved silver tea set from Murshidabad. The Assam tea has been recognised with a Geographical Indication tag since 2007, symbolising the cultural significance of tea in both nations. The gifts were described as a 'symbol of warmth, connection, and shared stories,' reflecting the personal touch in their diplomatic relations.

In a related segment, India Today’s Foreign Affairs Editor Geeta Mohan and Senior Executive Editor Anjana Om Kashyap conducted a historic interview with President Putin at the Kremlin. During the interview, Putin expressed sharp criticism of US foreign policy, stating, 'The US is buying nuclear energy from us, and they want to tell you not to buy oil.' The discussion included insights into Putin's recent meetings with US officials and his stance on international relations.

The interview also revealed Putin’s respect for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the Russian leader emphasising that India has evolved significantly since the 1970s. He praised Modi’s focus on strategic autonomy, indicating a shift in India’s diplomatic posture.

This state dinner and the accompanying discussions illustrate the deepening ties between India and Russia, as both nations navigate a complex geopolitical landscape. The event not only served as a platform for dialogue but also reinforced the cultural and historical connections shared by the two countries.