Vladimir Putin Begins State Visit to India Amid Strengthening Ties

NEW DELHI: Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in India on Thursday for a two-day state visit, commencing a series of high-profile engagements with Indian officials. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally received President Putin at Palam Airport, where the two leaders exchanged warm greetings before departing together in a single vehicle.

The arrival of President Putin was accompanied by extensive security arrangements, involving the Delhi Police, Special Protection Group, and Russian security personnel. The route from the airport was adorned with banners and flags, and advanced surveillance measures were implemented to ensure safety during the visit.

The primary focus of this visit is the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, where both leaders are expected to co-chair discussions that may lead to the signing of over ten inter-governmental agreements and more than fifteen commercial memoranda of understanding. These agreements are anticipated to cover a wide array of sectors including trade, healthcare, agriculture, and technology.

Strengthening Defence and Trade Relations

Ahead of President Putin's arrival, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasised that the collaboration between India and Russia continues to grow, despite global uncertainties. He highlighted ongoing discussions regarding a Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union and noted the consistent military exchanges that characterise the bilateral relationship.

Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov echoed this sentiment, describing the ties with India as a "time-proven friendship" based on mutual respect and cultural similarities. This reflects the long-standing partnership that has adapted over the years, even as geopolitical dynamics shift.

During his visit, President Putin is scheduled to attend a state banquet hosted by Indian President Droupadi Murmu and will also participate in the launch of the Indian edition of the Russian news channel RT, indicating a strategic effort to enhance Russia's influence in the region.

Private Dinner Diplomacy

President Putin's first official engagement in India will be a private dinner with Prime Minister Modi. The discussions during this intimate meeting are expected to encompass a broad range of topics, including defence, energy security, trade, and cooperation in emerging sectors. Furthermore, global political issues, developments in Eurasia, and the Indo-Pacific region are likely to be on the agenda.

This dinner serves as a prelude to the more structured talks scheduled for the following day.

Day Two: Ceremonial Welcome and Business Forum

On Friday, President Putin will begin his schedule with a visit to Rajghat, paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, a customary practice for visiting heads of state. Following this, he will receive a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where formal summit discussions with Prime Minister Modi will take place at Hyderabad House.

The day is expected to include a working lunch and President Putin's address at the India-Russia Business Forum, aimed at fostering private sector partnerships and encouraging investments between the two nations. The evening will culminate in another state banquet hosted by President Murmu, before President Putin is set to depart later that evening.

Looking Ahead: Roadmap for Future Cooperation

A joint statement is anticipated to emerge from the summit, along with several agreements across various sectors. Notably, a Programme for the Development of Strategic Areas of Russian-Indian Economic Cooperation until 2030 is expected to be outlined, serving as a roadmap for enhancing long-term industrial and trade collaboration.

President Putin's aide, Yuri Ushakov, confirmed that bilateral trade reached approximately $63.6 billion in 2024, marking a 12% increase driven primarily by sectors such as energy, fertilisers, and machinery. The priority areas for future collaboration will include industrial partnerships, innovative technologies, peaceful space exploration, healthcare, and workforce mobility.

Despite the complexities of international relations, particularly in the context of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the partnership between India and Russia continues to evolve. Prime Minister Modi and President Putin have maintained regular communications, with five phone conversations in 2024 alone, and their last in-person meeting took place during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Tianjin.

Conclusion

The ongoing India-Russia relationship is a testament to both nations’ commitment to a strategic partnership that balances historical ties with modern cooperation across diverse sectors. As President Putin's visit unfolds, the outcomes are poised to set the tone for future collaborations in an increasingly complex global landscape.