Did PM Modi Host a Private Dinner for Putin Before the India-Russia Summit?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The dinner signifies the strong bilateral ties between India and Russia.
- PM Modi and Putin's relationship reflects a long-standing friendship.
- Significant discussions are anticipated at the upcoming summit.
- The summit marks a milestone in the history of India-Russia relations.
- Agreements on various interdepartmental and business sectors are expected to be signed.
New Delhi, Dec 4 (NationPress) 7 Lok Kalyan Marg was embellished with India-Russia flags and special lighting on Thursday evening as Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Vladimir Putin into his official residence for a private dinner, just after the Russian President arrived in New Delhi for a two-day State Visit.
The two leaders were seen traveling together in the same car from the airport after PM Modi personally greeted Putin on the tarmac, highlighting the enduring friendship between the two nations and their well-documented camaraderie.
PM Modi expressed his anticipation for engaging discussions with the Russian leader later that evening and the following day.
"I am delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin, to India. I look forward to our discussions later today and tomorrow. The India-Russia friendship is a time-honored one that has significantly benefited our citizens," PM Modi shared on X, accompanied by photos with Putin.
The two leaders shared a warm embrace and exchanged greetings before departing the airport together. They also took a moment to enjoy and applaud a cultural performance as part of the welcome festivities.
In July 2024, Putin had similarly hosted PM Modi at his residence in Moscow's Novo-Ogaryovo.
The upcoming 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit on Friday commemorates the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership declaration.
"This visit holds significant importance as it allows for discussions on the comprehensive scope of the Russia-India special and privileged strategic partnership across various sectors, including politics, trade, economy, science, technology, as well as cultural and humanitarian issues, alongside addressing current international and regional matters. All of these topics will be highlighted in the forthcoming discussions with the Indian delegation led by Narendra Modi," the Kremlin stated prior to Putin's arrival in New Delhi.
On Friday, the Russian President will receive a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan before formal discussions take place at Hyderabad House. A joint statement is expected to follow the talks, along with the signing of a range of bilateral interdepartmental and business agreements.
Moreover, the Russian President will also meet with President Droupadi Murmu and lay a wreath at the Mahatma Gandhi memorial during his visit.