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Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India soon, as confirmed by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Arrangements for the visit are underway, and it will be Putin’s first trip to India since the Russia-Ukraine war began in 2022.
A Strengthening Partnership
Lavrov highlighted Russia’s focus on strengthening ties with India, calling it a “privileged strategic partnership.” He confirmed this during a conference titled Russia and India: Toward a New Bilateral Agenda, hosted by the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC).
Putin’s visit follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s trip to Moscow in July 2024 for the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit. Modi also met Putin in October 2024 during the BRICS Summit in Kazan. These meetings reinforced India’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with Russia despite geopolitical tensions.
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Key Discussion Points
Putin and Modi are expected to discuss crucial issues, including:
- Russia-Ukraine War: India has maintained a neutral stance on the conflict. Modi has told Putin that “this is not an era of war.”
- Geopolitical Changes: The meeting will likely address global shifts, including Donald Trump’s return as US President.
- Trade and Energy: India and Russia aim to enhance trade, including discussions on settling transactions in national currencies.
- Defence Cooperation: Russia continues to be India’s top arms supplier, with ongoing deals like the S-400 missile systems.
- Rail and Manufacturing Projects: The visit may boost collaboration in infrastructure, particularly railways and industrial manufacturing.
- Indian Nationals in Russian Army: Reports suggest discussions on facilitating the return of Indians recruited into the Russian army.
Historical Context: India-Russia Ties
India and Russia share a strong relationship dating back to the Cold War era. During Indira Gandhi’s tenure, both countries signed the Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and Cooperation in 1971. This agreement was crucial during the Bangladesh Liberation War, securing Soviet support for India.
The partnership deepened under leaders like Rajiv Gandhi, PV Narasimha Rao, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Manmohan Singh. Vajpayee and Putin signed the Declaration on Strategic Partnership in 2000, elevating bilateral relations. Despite challenges, India has continued to purchase Russian defence equipment, maintaining strategic independence in global affairs.
The Global Significance
Putin’s visit underscores India’s strategic autonomy in foreign policy. While Western nations impose sanctions on Russia, India balances its relationships with both Russia and Ukraine. Modi’s rare visits to both Moscow and Kyiv in 2024 highlight India’s role as a neutral mediator.
The visit will also be closely watched for its impact on global power dynamics. India and Russia’s growing partnership comes amid efforts by the US and European nations to sideline Russia. As India strengthens ties with Russia, the world will closely monitor the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Putin’s upcoming visit marks a significant step in the India-Russia relationship. The discussions will shape future cooperation in trade, defence, and diplomacy. As global alliances shift, this visit reaffirms India’s commitment to maintaining strategic partnerships while advocating for peace and stability on the global stage.