PM Modi is currently on a significant two-day visit to Russia, marking his first trip to the nation since the onset of the Ukraine conflict. This visit is particularly noteworthy as it reflects the enduring alliance between India and Russia, despite the complexities introduced by the war.
PM Modi Russia visit commenced with his arrival in Moscow, where he was warmly welcomed by both Indian and Russian communities. The cultural embrace was evident as a group of girls danced on Indian traditional songs symbolizing the blend of tradition and diplomatic ties.
A memorable welcome in Moscow! I thank the Indian community for their affection. pic.twitter.com/acTHlLQ3Rs
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 8, 2024
The agenda for the visit was extensive, with PM Modi scheduled to engage in a private meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, followed by delegation-level talks and restricted discussions. The leaders aimed to review the multifaceted relations between the two nations and exchange views on contemporary regional and global issues of mutual interest.
A highlight of the PM Modi Russia visit was the private dinner hosted by President Putin in honor of PM Modi and his delegation, showcasing the personal rapport between the two leaders.
Gratitude to President Putin for hosting me at Novo-Ogaryovo this evening. Looking forward to our talks tomorrow as well, which will surely go a long way in further cementing the bonds of friendship between India and Russia. pic.twitter.com/eDdgDr0USZ
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 8, 2024
The visit comes at a time when global dynamics are shifting. With the West closely monitoring the visit, it underscores the importance attached to the Indo-Russian relationship. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the visit was crucial for bilateral relations and expressed hope for productive informal talks between the leaders.
India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, highlighted the visit as a great opportunity for direct talks on a host of issues, including trade. The partnership between India and Russia has gained prominence, especially in the context of India’s increased oil imports from Russia, which now account for over 40% of its total oil imports.
Russian media on PM Modi Russia visit
The Moscow Times– Moscow continues to supply discounted oil and weapons to India, but its isolation from the West and closer ties with Beijing have affected its relationship with New Delhi. Meanwhile, Western powers have strengthened ties with India to counter China’s influence in the Asia-Pacific, urging India to distance itself from Russia.
Russian news Agency TASS reported- Russian President Vladimir Putin praised India’s development and the achievements of its Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was recently re-elected to the post. “I would like to congratulate you on your reelection as prime minister. I think this is not an accident, but the result of your work over many years,” the president told Modi as they held an informal meeting in a residence outside Moscow.
“You have your own ideas. You are a very energetic person, able to achieve results in the interests of India and the Indian people,” Putin said. “The result is obvious.” “India firmly ranks as the world’s third-largest economy,” he stated.
Sputnik International wrote- “For Modi, the trip to Moscow is a demonstration of India’s strategic autonomy and his own ambitions as a leader of the non-Western world. For Putin, the talks fall in line with a succession of recent meetings with leaders of the Global South, symbolizing the pivot towards a new world order.”
Conclusion
PM Modi Russia visit reinforces the bonds of friendship and cooperation that have long defined the relationship between the two nations. It has been a subject of international attention, reflecting the delicate balance India maintains in its foreign policy. Navigating through the complexities of international relations, India continues to assert its stance on peaceful resolutions and strategic autonomy. The visit, thus, not only reinforces the historical ties between India and Russia but also positions India as a pivotal player on the global stage.
