Russian President Vladimir Putin’s two-day visit to India continues with a packed Day agenda, including ceremonial engagements, defence talks, and summit-level discussions, with a strong focus on trade and energy ties. The visit started with a private dinner hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the evening of Putin’s arrival.
On Friday morning, President Putin will start his official schedule with a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by a visit to Rajghat to honour Mahatma Gandhi. It is a customary stop for visiting heads of state. The leaders will then head for Hyderabad House for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, where PM Modi will hold official talks and host a working lunch for the Russian delegation.
Day 2 of Putin’s India visit schedule
11 am– Ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan
11:30 am-Wreath laying at Rajghat
11:50 am– Summit meet with PM Modi at Hyderabad House.
1:50 am-Joint press statements.
During afternoon-Business event to be held by FCCI and Roscongress at Bharat Mandapam.
7:00 PM: Putin meeting with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
9:00 PM: Departure from India.
The day’s discussions are likely to cover a wide spectrum of defence and strategic issues. As per an NDTV report, India is expected to push for quicker delivery of pending military platforms, including the remaining units of the S-400 air defence system. India has signed a USD 5 billion contract for five squadrons, in which three have been delivered, and the rest two are expected by mid-next year.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, as quoted by NDTV, also indicated that Russia may discuss India’s interest in the Su-57th fifth generation combat aircraft.
Agenda of Day 2 Putin-Modi Meet
Defence cooperation will feature prominently, with meetings expected between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Andrey Belousov. The energy sector remains a crucial issue. With US sanctions impacting India’s procurement of discounted Russian crude, both sides are expected to evaluate supply stability.
Russian oil purchases
India’s continued imports of discounted Russian oil will be a crucial issue during the Modi-Putin meeting. As per Associated Press, India says these supplies are important for its energy needs, even as the US argues that they help fund Russia’s war effort. Indian officials stated to AP that India will avoid buying from sanctioned companies but will continue purchasing from non-sanctioned suppliers to protect its energy security.
Energy ties are another priority
India and Russia are working to strengthen their relationship in the Russian Far East and boost civil nuclear ties. The Kudankulam nuclear plant in Tamil Nadu continues to be the main focus. Both countries are discussing local manufacturing of reactor parts and exploring joint nuclear projects in third countries.
Sukhoi Jets and Defence Partnership
The defence talks are expected to focus on upgrading India’s Russian-made Su-30MKI fighter jets and speeding up the delivery of the essential equipment. Russia is also keen to pitch for the SU-57 stealth fighter. Despite diversification, Russia continues to be the largest defence supplier.
President Putin is also expected to brief PM Modi on the latest diplomatic moves by the United States related to the Ukraine conflict. The Day 2 agenda follows Tuesday’s extended business leaders and senior officials. Main focus will likely be on energy trade, defence production and industrial partnership.