India warmly welcomes Russia's Putin

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday for a high-profile summit, focusing on defence and trade cooperation as New Delhi faces intense US pressure over its continued oil purchases from Moscow. The discussions also covered the global geopolitical climate following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and disruptions in international trade caused by US tariffs.

During the visit, major defence deals, co-production initiatives, energy agreements, and broader economic collaboration were on the agenda. This marks Putin's first trip to India since the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict.

Modi greeted Putin at the airport on Thursday with a warm embrace on a red carpet, and the two leaders later shared a ride to a private dinner, echoing a similar encounter during their previous meeting in China last September. Modi highlighted the longstanding India-Russia relationship, describing it as "time-tested" and beneficial for both nations.

Putin, expressing pleasure at meeting "my friend" Modi, emphasized the extensive scope of cooperation, including shipbuilding, aircraft manufacturing, nuclear energy, and space exploration. Analysts note that the visit aligns with India's strategy to diversify its strategic and economic partnerships, particularly amid the challenges posed by US tariffs.

On Friday, Putin was formally welcomed with an honour guard at New Delhi's presidential palace before his scheduled meeting with Modi. The leaders also engaged with business and industry figures, followed by a state banquet hosted by Indian President Droupadi Murmu.

India has emerged as a significant buyer of Russian oil, saving billions and providing Moscow with critical export revenue after European markets were largely closed due to the war. Putin praised Modi for standing firm against external pressures.

In defence, Russias share of Indias arms imports declined from 76% in 2009-2013 to 36% in 2019-2023, according to SIPRI. Discussions included advanced defence systems such as air defence units, fighter jets, and nuclear submarines, along with efforts to facilitate easier access to Russian markets. Bilateral trade reached $68.7 billion in 2024-25, a sixfold increase from pre-pandemic levels, though Indian exports accounted for only $4.88 billion. Agreements on enhanced mobility for Indian workers in Russia are also expected.

Analysis: India-Russia Summit and Strategic Implications

The meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin underscores the resilience of India-Russia relations amid global geopolitical tensions. The summit focused on defence, trade, and energy cooperation, signaling both countries’ intent to maintain strategic alignment despite Western pressure.

Major agreements discussed include co-production in defence, energy collaborations, and broader economic initiatives. While Russia’s share of India’s arms imports has decreased over the past decade, discussions on advanced military systems suggest an effort to sustain critical defence ties. Trade growth, reaching $68.7 billion in 2024-25, highlights the economic dimension of the partnership, though Indian exports remain relatively low.

From a geopolitical perspective, India’s engagement with Russia reflects a strategy of diversification in its international partnerships. Modi’s continued support for Russian oil imports and joint ventures in strategic sectors signals a calculated balancing act between economic interests and global diplomatic pressures.

Overall, the summit reaffirms India’s commitment to a “time-tested” relationship with Russia while pursuing opportunities to strengthen defence, energy, and economic cooperation, positioning New Delhi as a key player capable of navigating complex international pressures.

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• India rolls out red carpet for Russia's Putin