Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to begin a two-day visit to Russia from July 8 to 9. This visit holds great importance for the bilateral relationship between India and Russia. The 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit will be a key highlight of PM Modi’s visit, showcasing the strong ties between the two countries. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov mentioned that the visit promises to be extensive, with informal talks planned between PM Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
India’s stance on Russia has been notable, with PM Modi avoiding direct condemnation of Russia’s actions in Ukraine while advocating for peaceful resolutions. Russia has traditionally been a significant partner for India, supplying a large portion of its defense equipment. However, in recent times, India has been diversifying its defense procurements, reducing dependency on Russian arms and looking at other options from countries like the U.S., Israel, France, and Italy.
The visit comes at a crucial time in global geopolitics, especially as Russia’s ties with China have been strengthening amidst the Ukraine conflict. India’s relationship with Russia has a long history dating back to the Cold War era, with both countries sharing strong economic and strategic partnerships. Modi’s visit to Russia is an opportunity to reaffirm these ties and explore avenues for further cooperation.
While tensions between India and China persist, the meeting between Modi and Putin will be closely watched for any developments that could impact regional dynamics. Modi’s absence at a recent security summit, seemingly choosing to prioritize the upcoming Russia visit, underscores the significance of this trip for Indian foreign policy.
Overall, PM Modi’s visit to Russia is expected to underline the enduring friendship between the two countries, shedding light on the evolving nature of their relationship amidst changing global scenarios.
