Putin Welcomed in Delhi Ahead of High-Level India–Russia Summit

New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin, who arrived in India to attend the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit, was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday.

Putin arrived in New Delhi on Thursday, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi received him at the airport with a warm embrace, underscoring the personal rapport between the two leaders. The Russian President later visited Raj Ghat to pay homage at Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial before heading to Hyderabad House for talks.

Strengthening defence cooperation, addressing pressures on India–Russia trade, and exploring collaboration on modular nuclear reactors are expected to be the key focus areas of the summit. Discussions may also include upgrades to India’s Russian-made Su-30MKI fighter jets and accelerating the delivery of critical military hardware.

Both leaders are expected to meet top Indian and Russian business executives. President Murmu will later host a state banquet in honour of the Russian President.

Putin’s visit comes at a time when global attention is focused on the shifting dynamics of India–US relations. The India–Russia leadership has traditionally met every two years, with Putin last visiting India in December 2021.