Russian President Vladimir Putins two-day visit to India begins today, marking a significant moment in India-Russia relations amidst a complex global backdrop. This visit, which coincides with the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, aims to strengthen ties particularly in defense, trade, energy, and strategic cooperation. It also highlights the evolving dynamics in global geopolitics and economic partnerships, especially given the current tensions between the US and India over trade and Russias ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The agenda for Putins visit is packed with high-level engagements. Upon arrival in New Delhi, he will be welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a private dinner. The following day includes formal ceremonies such as a guard of honor at Rashtrapati Bhavan, a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat, and meetings with Indias President Droupadi Murmu. The core event is the India-Russia summit at Hyderabad House, where both leaders are expected to discuss and possibly finalize major defense deals, including additional procurements of the S-400 air defense system and discussions around Russia’s Su-57 stealth fighter jets. These talks could accelerate the stalled defense contracts and boost Indias military capabilities while deepening the strategic alliance between the two nations.

Trade and energy cooperation also form key pillars of the visit. India seeks to address the trade imbalance with Russia and expand collaboration in sectors like oil and gas despite US sanctions affecting Russia. The visit might also pave the way for new agreements or projects in energy, technology, and space cooperation, reinforcing the broad spectrum partnership between India and Russia.

This visit holds extra significance as its Putins first trip to India after the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, taking place at a time when India is balancing its relationships delicately between Moscow and Washington. The agreements and discussions during this summit will likely shape the future course of India-Russia relations and their strategic posture on the international stage. Putins visit represents a strategic step to consolidate and expand India-Russia ties in defense, trade, and geopolitical cooperation, underscoring their longstanding partnership amid shifting global alliances and economic challenges.

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