Russian President Vladimir Putin begins a state visit to India on Thursday (12/4), featuring a joint agenda with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The bilateral summit seeks to strengthen the “special and distinguished strategic partnership” between the two countries, amid increasing geopolitical pressure on New Delhi to distance itself from Moscow over the war in Ukraine.
According to the Kremlin, Putin will initially hold an informal meeting with Modi at his residence, a special format that will allow them to discuss sensitive and strategic issues directly.
On the second day of the visit, the Russian President will participate in the Russia-India Business Forum, and will hold private and official talks with Modi and Indian President Draupadi Murmu, in addition to visiting the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial.
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Unified relations
India continued to import Russian oil even in the face of Washington’s warnings about indirect financing of the war in Ukraine. In response, Donald Trump imposed additional tariffs on Indian products, increasing import duties by up to 50%.
However, New Delhi continues to defend its policy, citing the need to meet the growing energy demand of its 1.4 billion people.
In the field of defence, Russian-Indian cooperation remains pivotal. India is expected to discuss the delivery of two additional S-400 missile systems, modernization of Su-30MKI fighters, accelerating deliveries of critical military materials and potential partnerships in the development of the Su-57 fighter, including technology transfer and joint production. The BrahMos missile program and expansion of production of multi-role aircraft are also on the agenda.
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (right) walks alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit
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In addition to defence, the agenda includes economic and trade agreements, with a focus on trade facilitation, maritime and health exchanges, Indian exports of pharmaceutical, agricultural and textile products to Russia, supply of fertilizers and regulated migration of skilled workers.