Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Moscow yesterday evening for his first visit to Russia since the onset of its Ukraine campaign, signaling a delicate diplomatic balance amid global geopolitical shifts. His arrival was warmly received by Russia’s First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov at the airport, marking the start of a significant diplomatic engagement.
“I look forward to further deepening the special and privileged strategic partnership between our nations,” PM Modi expressed upon arrival, setting the stage for substantial discussions during his visit. Today, he is scheduled to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, preceded by a private dinner hosted by Putin himself.
The visit assumes greater significance against the backdrop of PM Modi’s careful navigation between maintaining India’s historical ties with Russia and nurturing closer security relationships with Western powers. This trip also marks Modi’s first visit to Moscow since his re-election for a third term.
“I look forward to reviewing all aspects of bilateral cooperation with my friend President Vladimir Putin and sharing perspectives on various regional and global issues,” PM Modi emphasized before departing India. The agenda includes economic collaborations focusing on energy, trade, manufacturing, and fertilizers, underscoring mutual interests beyond immediate geopolitical challenges.
India-Russia relations have traditionally been robust, rooted in shared historical ties and mutual economic benefits. Russia remains a crucial supplier of discounted oil and essential defense equipment to India, though recent global dynamics have seen India diversifying its defense imports away from Moscow.
The economic aspect of the visit is paramount, given Russia’s reliance on Indian markets for its oil exports amid Western sanctions. India’s significant increase in Russian crude oil imports highlights its pivotal role in sustaining Moscow’s economy amidst international isolation.
Following his engagements in Moscow, PM Modi will travel to Vienna, marking the first visit to Austria’s capital by an Indian leader since 1983. This leg of the trip underscores India’s commitment to enhancing bilateral ties with European partners in a dynamic global context.
Sources By Agencies
