Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in New Delhi on Thursday, marking his first visit to India since the start of the Ukraine war nearly four years ago. He was received by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the airport, a rare gesture as visiting foreign leaders are typically welcomed by senior Indian ministers.
Modi and Putin Recreate SCO Meet Gesture
Putin, accompanied by senior Russian ministers and a large business delegation, was escorted by Modi on the red carpet. The two leaders embraced before heading to Modi’s official car. In a scene reminiscent of their last encounter at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meet, Modi arrived early, and the leaders traveled together in the same car to the Prime Minister’s official residence. At the SCO meeting, Putin had reportedly waited for Modi in his car for about 10 minutes before they left together.
The two-day visit aims to expand India-Russia economic ties beyond energy and defence. Modi is hosting Putin for a private dinner on Thursday, with summit talks scheduled for Friday.
Historic Diplomatic Gestures Continue
Modi’s personal reception of Putin mirrors past gestures for other visiting leaders. Earlier this year, he received Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani at the airport, and in 2020, Modi went to welcome U.S. President Donald Trump in a similar manner. Such personal welcomes underline the importance India attaches to its diplomatic relationships.
The summit is expected to focus on deepening strategic partnerships and enhancing cooperation in trade, energy, and defence sectors, with both sides aiming to signal strong bilateral ties amid global geopolitical tensions.
