Putin Accepts PM Modi’s Invitation for India Visit; Preparations underway
Russian President Vladimir Putin has accepted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation to visit India, with preparations already underway for the visit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced on Thursday. Speaking at the “Russia and India: Toward a New Bilateral Agenda” conference, hosted by the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC), Lavrov stated that the visit would take place at a mutually convenient time, though no specific dates have been provided.
Lavrov highlighted the symbolic nature of the invitation, noting that PM Modi’s first bilateral foreign visit after his re-election was to Russia. “Now, it is our turn,” Lavrov added, confirming Putin’s acceptance.
The Russian Foreign Minister also praised India for its balanced stance on the ongoing Ukrainian crisis, commending India’s efforts to advocate for dialogue and a peaceful resolution. He reiterated Russia’s commitment to negotiations to end the conflict and establish lasting peace.
On the economic front, Lavrov emphasized the strengthening of Russia-India trade relations, with bilateral trade exceeding $60 billion in 2024, the highest level in the history of their modern ties. He noted that both nations are successfully overcoming obstacles posed by detractors to this progress.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who also addressed the conference, reaffirmed the enduring strength of India-Russia relations, which are rooted in deep historical ties and mutual respect. Jaishankar pointed to the adaptability of both nations in discovering new areas of cooperation, despite global shifts.
Jaishankar highlighted key pillars of the partnership, such as energy, defense, and civil-nuclear cooperation, while also stressing emerging areas like trade, technology, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, connectivity, and the digital economy as new points of collaboration.
This bilateral visit is seen as another step in expanding the multifaceted India-Russia relationship, aimed at fostering greater regional and global stability and prosperity.
