INDIA ROLLS OUT RED CARPET FOR PUTIN

In a rare diplomatic gesture and a departure from normal practice, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally received Russian President Viadimir Putin with a warm hug and handshake on the red carpet upon his arrival at Delhi’s Palam airport on Thursday evening.

- VINAY KUMAR

Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives Russian President Vladimir Putin in New Delhi on Thursday

(PTI)

India views President Putin's visit as a reaffirmation of one of its oldest and most resilient strategic partnerships. This is his first trip to India since 2021 and coincides with the 25th anniversary of the India Russia strategic partnership. Several key agreements are expected during the summit.

PM Modi’ gesture underscored the significance New Delhi is attaching to the visit. Putin was welcomed with a cultural performance as he exited the airport before the two leaders left together in the same car for Lok Kalyan Marg, the Prime Minister's official residence in the capital. The moment echoed their joint ride in Putin's car during the SCO Summit in Tianjin, China, reflecting their personal rapport.

Soon after receiving President Putin, PM Modi posted photographs of their meeting on X and wrote, “Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin, to India. Looking forward to our interactions later this evening and tomorrow. India Russia friendship is a time tested one that has greatly benefitted our people”

Putin’ visit aims to further deepen defence ties as India faces increasing pressure from the United States to slow down its purchase of Russian oil.

Putin is accompanied by Defence Minister Andrei Belousoy, with possible deals on fighter jets and air defence systems likely to be discussed. ‘The visit is expected to reinforce a nearly seven decade relationship that has held firm despite a fractious geopolitical environment.