Russia Confirms Preparations for President Putin’s Visit to India, Says Lavrov

 

Courtesy -ABP News 

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed on Thursday that preparations are underway for President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, according to a report by Russian news agency TASS. The visit, expected later this year, is anticipated to bolster strategic ties between the two nations.

Lavrov, speaking at a press conference, stated, “Yes, preparations are being made for President Putin’s visit to India,” but did not specify the exact dates or agenda. The confirmation comes amid increasing diplomatic engagements between Moscow and New Delhi, particularly in defense, trade, and energy cooperation.

Putin’s Expected Visit to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

President Putin’s visit would mark a continuation of the annual India-Russia summit, a tradition between the two countries that has been in place since 2000. The last in-person summit took place in December 2021, when Putin traveled to New Delhi for discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India and Russia have maintained close ties despite global geopolitical shifts, with India balancing its relations between Russia and Western powers. Moscow remains a key supplier of defense equipment to India and an important energy partner, particularly amid Western sanctions on Russia.

Key Issues on the Agenda

While details of Putin’s agenda remain undisclosed, discussions are expected to cover:

  • Defense and Military Cooperation: India continues to procure Russian defense equipment, including the S-400 missile defense system.

  • Energy and Trade: Bilateral trade has surged due to India’s increased purchase of Russian crude oil amid global sanctions.

  • Geopolitical Coordination: India and Russia are expected to discuss the ongoing Ukraine conflict, BRICS cooperation, and developments in the Indo-Pacific.

Lavrov’s confirmation of the visit comes ahead of the BRICS summit and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meetings, where India and Russia play key roles.

Diplomatic Significance

Putin’s visit is expected to further strengthen the long-standing India-Russia partnership, particularly as both nations navigate shifting global alliances. India, while maintaining a neutral stance on the Ukraine war, has continued engaging with Russia diplomatically and economically.

As preparations for the visit continue, both nations are expected to announce further details in the coming months.

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