MOSCOW, Russia: The Russian President Vladimir Putin will have discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday and Tuesday of next week, the Kremlin stated.
This visit underscores the enduring ties between Russia and India, which have strengthened since the Cold War era.
India’s importance as a trading partner for Russia has increased significantly since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. With Western sanctions limiting Russia’s export markets, China and India have become major buyers of Russian oil.
Under Modi’s leadership, India has maintained a neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict, advocating for a peaceful resolution while avoiding condemnation of Russia’s actions.
Despite their partnership, tensions have arisen as Russia has developed closer ties with China’s main rival, India. Modi recently skipped a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), a security grouping led by Moscow and Beijing, sending his foreign minister instead.
This decision has fueled speculation about India’s stance in the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Modi’s last visit to Russia was in 2019 for an economic forum in Vladivostok. Putin and Modi last met in September 2022 at an SCO summit in Uzbekistan. Their upcoming meeting aims to reaffirm their countries’ strategic partnership amidst global uncertainties.
Historically, Russia has been a key arms supplier to India, providing the majority of its military equipment during the Soviet era. However, due to supply disruptions caused by the conflict in Ukraine, India has started diversifying its defence procurements, turning to suppliers from the US, Israel, France, and Italy.
Modi’s visit to Russia comes at a critical time, reflecting both nations’ efforts to navigate complex international relations and economic challenges.
