PM Modi Met Putin Three Times In 24 hours, Says ‘Russia Is The Closest Friend Of India’

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi to a warm and personal reception from Prime Minister Narendra Modi at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg.

Welcoming the visiting leader, PM Modi said the India–Russia friendship has stood the test of time and consistently benefited the people of both nations.

Putin also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening this long-standing partnership.

A formal ceremonial welcome followed at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where the two leaders greeted each other before beginning a packed schedule of meetings.

Meetings Focus on Strategic Cooperation

During several rounds of discussions, Prime Minister Modi presented Putin with a Russian-language edition of the Bhagavad Gita, describing it as a text that has inspired millions across the world. The talks focused on boosting trade, investment, and connectivity, while exploring deeper cooperation in shipbuilding, skill development, energy, and critical minerals.

Putin praised India’s rapid progress, and both leaders engaged in constructive and cordial discussions, listening closely to each other’s perspectives.

New Targets Under 23rd Annual Summit

A major outcome of the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit was the approval of an economic cooperation programme extending to 2030. The roadmap aims to diversify bilateral trade and investment and launch new projects in the energy sector.

Opportunities in skills training and education are also expected to expand under the plan.

PM Modi said the programme would open new avenues for innovation and economic growth. India will open two new consulates in Russia, which is expected to enhance people-to-people ties.

The recent exhibition of Buddhist relics in Russia has also deepened cultural engagement, he noted. These initiatives, he added, would create new opportunities and jobs for citizens in both countries.

Global Issues and Security Cooperation

Global challenges formed a key part of the dialogue. PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict. Both leaders reaffirmed their resolve to work together against terrorism and agreed to maintain close coordination on multilateral platforms.

“Peace is the foundation of progress,” PM Modi said, while Putin expressed support for India’s peace efforts.

Officials noted that these messages carry positive implications for the global community and signal active leadership on critical international issues.

Boost to Business and Innovation

Both leaders participated in the plenary session of the India–Russia Business Forum, where discussions centred on energising commercial ties.

PM Modi said the platform would open new doors for innovation and development. Industry representatives shared proposals aimed at expanding bilateral opportunities.

At a joint press conference, PM Modi said the India–Russia partnership would continue to grow stronger. Images and video from the event showed the two leaders warmly interacting, underscoring the personal rapport that has become a hallmark of their engagement.

Putin’s visit is poised to elevate the India–Russia relationship to new heights, said officials.

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