In a high-stakes diplomatic move, PM Modi Russia Visit on Jully 8,9 marked the first high-level meeting between the two nations since the major geopolitical shifts caused by the Ukraine conflict. Moscow’s Ostankino Tower lit up in the colors of the Indian flag, a glowing tribute to Modi’s visit.
ICYMI: India & Russia Light Up Sky Over Moscow
— RT_India (@RT_India_news) July 9, 2024
To honour the visit of PM Modi to Russia, the Ostankino Tower shone brightly with the Russian and India flags.#ModiInRussia | #ModiRussiaVisit https://t.co/Lqsaq1Uq5n pic.twitter.com/siHQSS2sGx
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also honoured the brave soldiers of World War II at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Russia today.
What is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
The remains of an unknown soldier who died in the Battle of Moscow in 1941 were first buried in a mass grave near Zelenograd. In December 1966, to mark the 25th anniversary of the battle, these remains were moved with great ceremony to a place near the Kremlin Wall in Moscow’s Alexander Garden.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, unveiled on May 8, 1967, by a talented team of architects and sculptor Nikolai Tomsky, is a dark red stone structure with a bronze laurel branch and a soldier’s helmet resting on a banner. At its center, a five-pointed star with an Eternal Flame burns brightly, symbolizing the never-ending bravery of the soldiers.
The inscription on this powerful monument reads, “Your name is unknown, your deed is immortal.” The Changing of the Guard ceremony, a precise and solemn event, happens every hour, adding to the monument’s significance as the Kremlin Regiment stands guard.
Modi laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a gesture full of respect and historical importance, showing the close bonds of support and shared values between the two nations.
❗️Paying Respects: PM Modi Laid A Wreath At The Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier Outside The Kremlin Earlier On Tuesday
— RT_India (@RT_India_news) July 9, 2024
The monument is a war memorial commemorating the Soviet soldiers killed during the Second World War. pic.twitter.com/NE1CHEqrTI
India-Russia Strategic Partnership
Over the past decade, the India-Russia partnership has grown stronger, with cooperation in energy, security, trade, investment, health, education, culture, tourism, and exchanges between people. Modi’s visit was a declaration of this growing partnership, especially important in today’s challenging global and regional environment.
His schedule was full of important meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, focusing on defense, investment, energy cooperation, education, culture, and people-to-people ties.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also invited Narendra Modi to the BRICS Summit, which will take place in the Russian city of Kazan on Oct 22-24.
PM Modi also met with the Indian community in Russia, emphasizing their important role as a bridge between the two countries. This gathering allowed him to hear their insights and experiences, further strengthening the bond between the nations.
PM Modi Russia Visit: Modi-Putin Talks
The Modi-Putin summit was a long session covering a wide range of issues. The leaders discussed the postponed annual India-Russia summit, which had been delayed due to the pandemic and global events, and reviewed the extensive relationship between their countries.
— Sputnik India (@Sputnik_India) July 9, 2024
A major topic was the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. India has always supported dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts. Modi’s visit to Russia, closely watched by the international community, especially with the NATO summit happening in Washington at the same time, showed India’s careful balancing act in foreign policy, maintaining independence while engaging with major global players.
The visit resulted in agreements to deepen trade and economic ties, vital for both countries. The leaders also talked about the quick release of Indian nationals who had been accidentally involved in Russian military service.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Modi’s visit to Russia on June 9, 2024, was a landmark moment in the history of India-Russia relations. It showcased the vibrancy and resilience of their bilateral ties, paving the way for future engagements.
With every step, handshake, and wreath laid, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed the strong bond between India and Russia, proving that even in a world of constant change, some alliances remain as strong as ever.