Putin's first India visit in four years highlights deepening strategic ties

Modi Reiterates “India Is on the Side of Peace"

- S VENKAT NARAYAN

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi for his first visit to India in four years - and the first since the Ukraine war began in February 2022-marking a significant moment in India-Russia ties at a time of global geopolitical flux.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hosting the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, used the occasion to send a clear message to Moscow and the wider world: "India is not neutral. India is on the side of peace." The two leaders began their day with warm personal exchanges, underlining a relationship Modi described as "deeply rooted in history" and one that has continually "touched new heights" under Putin's leadership over the past quarter-century.

Modi welcomed Putin at Hyderabad House following a ceremonial Guard of Honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier in the morning. President Droupadi Murmu also received the Russian leader and hosted him for a state banquet scheduled for the evening.

Putin began his official engagements by laying a wreath at Rajghat, paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and signing the visitors' book.

Soon after, Modi and Putin commenced formal talks, with defence cooperation, trade expansion, nuclear energy collaboration and the Ukraine conflict dominating the agenda.

In his opening remarks, Modi reiterated that India consistently advocates a peaceful settlement to the war in Ukraine. "The welfare of nations lies in the path of peace," he said. Stressing India's role as a responsible global actor, he added that New Delhi has remained in continuous touch with all sides, including Moscow, urging de-escalation and dialogue.