New Delhi – Russian President Vladimir Putin will begin his two-day visit to India on Thursday, marking the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit amid a complex geopolitical landscape. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a private dinner for Putin hours after his arrival in New Delhi, setting the stage for comprehensive bilateral discussions on defense, trade, and energy cooperation.
Putin India Visit Schedule and Key Events
The Putin India visit commences with his arrival in New Delhi at approximately 4:30 PM on Thursday, December 5. Following his arrival, Prime Minister Modi will host Putin for a private dinner, continuing a tradition where Putin had similarly hosted Modi during the Prime Minister’s visit to Moscow last year. This personal gesture underscores the importance both leaders place on the bilateral relationship.
The main summit talks between Modi and Putin will take place on Friday, December 6, where the Russian President will be accorded a ceremonial welcome before formal discussions begin. Putin is expected to visit Rajghat in the morning to pay tribute at Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial. Following the summit talks, Modi will host a working lunch for Putin and his delegation at Hyderabad House, the designated venue for official discussions.
Defense Cooperation Takes Center Stage
Defense cooperation will be a primary focus during the Putin India visit, with several significant developments expected. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated there may be discussions on the possibility of Russia supplying Su-57 fighter jets to India. India is currently in the process of procuring a batch of fifth-generation fighter jets, and the Su-57 could be a potential solution to the country’s defense modernization needs.
Ahead of the Putin India visit, Russia gave the go-ahead to a key defense deal between Moscow and New Delhi, signaling positive momentum in bilateral defense ties. The summit will explore measures to deepen defense cooperation further, particularly important given India’s longstanding reliance on Russian military equipment and technology. This meeting represents an opportunity for India to emphasize its strategic autonomy by revitalizing defense partnerships with Russia.
Trade and Economic Agenda Amid Sanctions
The Putin India visit comes against the backdrop of punitive sanctions imposed by the United States on New Delhi, making trade discussions particularly significant. One of the key agenda items will be exploring measures to insulate India-Russia trade from US sanctions that have complicated bilateral economic relations.
New Delhi is expected to push for addressing the increasing trade deficit that has emerged due to India’s procurement of large volumes of Russian crude oil. The impact of US sanctions on India’s procurement of Russian crude oil will likely be discussed during the summit. Both sides recognize the need to find sustainable solutions that protect their economic interests while navigating international pressure.
The two countries might also discuss New Delhi’s proposed free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union, which could significantly expand trade opportunities. Additionally, the Putin India visit is expected to result in agreements including one on facilitating the movement of Indian workers to Russia, addressing labor market needs in both nations.
Energy Cooperation and Nuclear Reactors
Energy cooperation will feature prominently during the Putin India visit, with Russia expected to make an offer on small modular reactors for nuclear energy. This initiative aligns with India’s growing energy demands and commitment to expanding its nuclear power capacity. The energy partnership extends beyond nuclear cooperation to include the ongoing crude oil trade that has become a cornerstone of bilateral economic relations in recent years.
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Diplomatic and Cultural Engagements
The Putin India visit includes several diplomatic and cultural components beyond official talks. After the summit with Prime Minister Modi, Putin will attend a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu, highlighting the significance India places on the visit at the highest levels of government.
Putin will also launch the new India channel of Russia’s state-run broadcaster RT, representing an expansion of cultural and informational ties between the two nations. This initiative demonstrates both countries’ interest in strengthening people-to-people connections and expanding their soft power presence.
Ukraine Conflict and Global Implications
During the Putin India visit, the Russian President is likely to apprise Modi on the latest efforts by the United States to forge an agreement between Russia and Ukraine to end the ongoing conflict. This briefing will provide India with valuable insights into potential developments in a conflict that has significant implications for global stability and India’s own strategic interests.
The Putin India visit represents the Russian President’s first trip to India since the invasion of Ukraine, making the meeting particularly significant in demonstrating continued India-Russia partnership despite international pressure. The summit will focus on balancing India’s strategic autonomy with its multiple partnerships in an increasingly multipolar world.
The comprehensive agenda of the Putin India visit reflects the multifaceted nature of India-Russia relations, spanning defense, trade, energy, and diplomatic cooperation in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
