Will PM Modi Attend the May 9 Victory Day Celebrations in Russia?
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Synopsis
In a significant diplomatic development, the Kremlin has confirmed that PM Modi will not attend the May 9 Victory Day celebrations in Russia. This decision has sparked discussion about India's representation at the event, with reports suggesting that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh may attend instead. What does this mean for India-Russia relations?
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi will not attend the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow.
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh may represent India.
- 80th anniversary of Russia's victory in the Great Patriotic War is being celebrated.
- Chinese President Xi Jinping will be attending the celebrations.
- Participation of Indian armed forces is under consideration.
Moscow, April 30 (NationPress) The Kremlin announced on Wednesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not be present at the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow scheduled for May 9.
“The leader of India will not come... India will be represented, but not at the highest level,” stated Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov during a media briefing.
In contrast, it was confirmed that Chinese President Xi Jinping will be traveling to Moscow. Peskov emphasized, “There will be a separate visit by Chairman Xi, to which we attach great importance and are preparing,” highlighting that numerous foreign representatives will attend the 80th anniversary of the Victory Day alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Earlier this month, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India disclosed that PM Modi had received an invitation for the celebrations.
“Our Prime Minister has received an invitation for the participation in the Victory Day celebrations. We will announce our participation at the appropriate time,” Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the MEA, noted during a media briefing in New Delhi on April 9.
Reports from Russian media suggest that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh may attend the celebrations next month. “Singh's visit to Moscow for the parade is possible,” reported Russia's state-run news agency Tass, citing sources from the Indian government.
Additionally, it is being worked out for a ceremonial detachment of the Indian armed forces to participate in the parade on Red Square.
The celebrations on Red Square in Moscow will commemorate the 80th anniversary of Russia's victory in the Great Patriotic War.
Previously, Putin had invited PM Modi to join the celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of victory in the Great Patriotic War back in May 2020.
In earlier remarks, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov confirmed that the Russian President is set to visit India in early 2025, following an invitation from PM Modi. This visit aims to continue the annual meetings commitment between the two leaders.
“Our leaders have an agreement to meet once a year. This time, it is our turn,” Ushakov shared during a press briefing.
The last visit from the Russian President to India occurred on December 6, 2021, during the 21st India-Russia Annual Summit in New Delhi.
Meanwhile, PM Modi conducted two significant visits to Russia last year, attending the 22nd Russia-India Summit in July and later partaking in the BRICS Summit held in Kazan in October.
Point of View
The absence of PM Modi at the Victory Day celebrations highlights the complexities of international relations. While India maintains its sovereignty and diplomatic choices, the participation of Defence Minister Singh could signify ongoing cooperation with Russia. The evolving landscape between these nations remains crucial for regional stability.
NationPress
02/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is PM Modi not attending the Victory Day celebrations?
The Kremlin has confirmed that PM Modi will not be present at the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow, although India will still have representation at the event.
Who will represent India at the Victory Day celebrations?
Reports suggest that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh may attend the celebrations on behalf of India.
What is the significance of the Victory Day celebrations?
The Victory Day celebrations mark the 80th anniversary of Russia's victory in the Great Patriotic War, an important historical event.
Will any Indian armed forces participate in the celebrations?
There are plans for a ceremonial detachment of the Indian armed forces to participate in the parade on Red Square.
When did the last visit of the Russian President to India occur?
The last visit of Russian President Putin to India took place on December 6, 2021, during the 21st India-Russia Annual Summit.
