New Delhi/ Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on Thursday evening to begin his two-day state visit to India. His aircraft touched down at Palam Air Force Station at 7:00 pm, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally received him with a warm handshake and brief interaction. The visit marks a significant moment in India–Russia relations, coming four years after Putin’s last trip to India.
Soon after landing, Putin was greeted with traditional protocol, including a ceremonial reception by senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs. Security arrangements across the capital were heightened, with multi-layered deployment involving Delhi Police, SPG, and advanced surveillance systems.
Private Dinner with PM Modi
Putin and Modi are scheduled to meet tonight for a private dinner at the Prime Minister’s residence. This informal interaction is expected to set the tone for Friday’s high-level discussions. Such one-on-one engagements between the leaders have often played a crucial role in shaping diplomatic outcomes, especially in areas requiring strategic understanding.
Agenda for Bilateral Talks
On Friday, the two leaders will participate in the 23rd Annual India–Russia Summit at Hyderabad House. Key issues likely to be discussed include:
Expansion of defence cooperation and joint manufacturing
Long-term energy agreements, including crude oil and LNG supplies
Measures to correct the widening trade imbalance
Collaboration on nuclear energy projects
Space research, cybersecurity and new-age technologies
Regional security concerns, including the Ukraine conflict and Indo-Pacific developments
Both sides are expected to sign several agreements aimed at strengthening economic and technological ties. A joint statement will be released after the formal talks.
Cultural and Protocol Engagements
Putin will also visit Rajghat on Friday morning to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. He will then be accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan. In the evening, President Droupadi Murmu will host a state banquet in his honour.
Importance of the Visit
The visit is being closely watched by global observers. India remains one of Russia’s key strategic partners in Asia, while Moscow continues to be a major supplier of defence equipment and energy resources to India. Despite geopolitical changes and global tensions, both nations have maintained steady diplomatic engagement.
Putin’s arrival signals an attempt to deepen cooperation in sectors such as hydrocarbons, defence production, pharma, food processing, and high-technology trade.
