Russian President Vladimir Putin began a two-day state visit to India with a warm welcome in New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted him at Rashtrapati Bhavan with a tri-services guard of honour. Modi earlier received Putin at the airport with a hug and handshake.
Putin paid tribute at Raj Ghat before moving to Hyderabad House for the 23rd India-Russia Summit. Both leaders discussed defence ties, energy cooperation and the movement of skilled workers. They plan to announce several agreements, including partnerships in shipping, healthcare, fertilisers and connectivity.
India aims to speed up pending deliveries of two S-400 missile systems. It has already received three units from the 2018 defence deal. Talks also covered upgrades for Su-30MKI jets and future joint exercises. Russia is keen to pitch its Su-57 stealth fighter, while India continues to explore global options.
The visit comes as India negotiates a trade settlement with the United States after Washington imposed higher tariffs over India’s purchase of discounted Russian oil. Russia now wants to expand bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030. Putin will meet business leaders and attend a state banquet before returning to Moscow.
