Putin Arrives in New Delhi for 23rd India-Russia Summit; Modi-Putin Talks to Boost Defence, Energy & Strategic Partnership
Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in New Delhi today for a significant two-day State visit, marking the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit—an event expected to redefine the depth of the “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.” In a strong diplomatic gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed President Putin at the airport, signaling the importance India places on its long-standing ties with Moscow.
During the summit on December 5th, the two leaders will hold wide-ranging discussions aimed at boosting defence cooperation, enhancing energy partnerships, and accelerating efforts to achieve the ambitious $100 billion bilateral trade target by 2030. Key areas of focus include the ongoing delivery of S-400 Triumf missile systems, joint defence manufacturing, long-term oil and gas supply agreements, and expansion of civil nuclear energy projects such as the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant.
The summit will also cover major geopolitical issues, including security in the Indo-Pacific, Eurasian stability, and the advancement of strategic connectivity projects like the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). Over 10 inter-governmental agreements and 15 commercial MoUs across trade, technology, agriculture, and connectivity are expected to be signed.
Putin’s visit reinforces India’s approach of Strategic Autonomy, balancing global partnerships while preserving a robust and time-tested relationship essential for India’s defence modernization and energy security.