New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit India, marking a significant step in the nations’ annual diplomatic engagements. The Kremlin confirmed on Monday that tentative dates for the high-profile visit will be finalized in early 2025.
Kremlin Confirms Yearly Leaders’ Meeting Protocol
Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov announced during a briefing, “Our leaders have an agreement to meet once a year. This time, it’s our turn. We have received Mr. Modi’s invitation and will certainly consider it positively.”
President Putin, who has limited international travel since the onset of the Ukraine war, is expected to honor this tradition by visiting India. The visit symbolizes a continuation of the deep-rooted bilateral relationship and ongoing dialogue between the two leaders.
A Series of Strategic Engagements
The proposed visit will build on a series of recent meetings and discussions. PM Modi and President Putin maintain consistent contact, holding telephonic conversations approximately every two months. Additionally, the two leaders have engaged in face-to-face discussions during major international events.
Earlier this year, PM Modi participated in the 22nd Russia-India Summit in Moscow, a two-day event underscoring the historical and strategic ties between the two nations. In October, the Prime Minister also met President Putin during the BRICS Summit in Kazan, where they discussed key issues including trade, defense, and global security.
Strengthening Ties Amid Global Challenges
This planned visit reflects India and Russia’s commitment to sustaining their long-standing partnership, even amid shifting global dynamics. The agenda for the meeting is expected to include critical topics such as energy cooperation, defense deals, and regional security, including developments in Ukraine and Afghanistan.
As the global community watches closely, the Modi-Putin meeting will likely serve as a crucial platform for advancing mutual interests and reinforcing India’s role as a key global player in a multipolar world.
