The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Kremlin have officially confirmed the dates for a highly anticipated visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to India next week.
President Putin will arrive in New Delhi on December 4 for a two-day State Visit, concluding on December 5, to participate in the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit.
Reviewing the Strategic Partnership
The MEA confirmed in a statement on Friday that the visit, extended at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will serve as a crucial platform for high-level bilateral discussions.
- Key Agenda: The primary objective of the summit is to “review progress in bilateral relations, set the vision for further strengthening the ‘Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership,’ and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.”
- Official Engagements: During the visit, President Putin is scheduled to hold extensive talks with Prime Minister Modi. He will also be received by the President of India, who will host a formal banquet in his honor.
Focus on Defense and Diplomacy
The annual summit is traditionally a cornerstone of the India-Russia relationship, often resulting in major announcements concerning defense procurement, technology transfer, and cooperation in areas such as nuclear energy and space exploration.
Coming amid shifting global geopolitical landscapes, the discussions between the two leaders are expected to heavily focus on maintaining strategic autonomy, expanding economic ties, and coordinating diplomatic positions on issues affecting Asia and the broader international community.
The forthcoming State Visit underscores the enduring and strong strategic ties between New Delhi and Moscow, reinforcing their long-standing partnership despite recent international pressures.