Modi welcomes Putin in Delhi, shares car ride after warm reception
During the visit, Modi and Putin will co-chair the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, where officials expect more than 10 inter-governmental agreements and over 15 commercial memoranda of understanding to be signed.
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi today (4 December) for a two-day state visit, receiving a warm and high-profile welcome from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Delhi's Palam Airport.
Modi greeted Putin with a handshake and an embrace before the two leaders departed together in the same vehicle, reports The Times of India.
Putin's arrival triggered extensive security arrangements involving the Delhi Police, Special Protection Group (SPG), and Russian security officials.
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The airport route was lined with flex boards, Russian flags, and enhanced surveillance systems as part of the capital's tightened security protocol.
During the visit, Modi and Putin will co-chair the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, where officials expect more than 10 inter-governmental agreements and over 15 commercial memoranda of understanding to be signed.
Key areas of focus include trade expansion, healthcare cooperation, fertilisers, shipping, agriculture, connectivity and the mobility of skilled workforce.
Modi on his verified X (previously known as twitter) wrote, "Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin to India. Looking forward to our interactions later this evening and tomorrow. India-Russia friendship is a time tested one that has greatly benefitted our people."
Defence and trade ties in focus
Ahead of the visit, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasised that despite global instability, India-Russia defence cooperation "is moving at a healthy pace." He highlighted progress toward a potential Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union and ongoing military-to-military exchanges.
Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov described ties with India as a "time-proven friendship" built on mutual respect and cultural closeness.
Putin's schedule includes a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu. He is also expected to launch the Indian edition of Russian international broadcaster RT, signalling an expansion of Russia's media presence in India.
Private dinner with Modi
Putin's first engagement after arrival was a private dinner with Modi. The meeting is expected to cover wide-ranging discussions on the "special and privileged strategic partnership," including defence cooperation, energy security, trade, and emerging sectors.
They will also discuss about global geopolitical issues, Eurasian developments and the Indo-Pacific.
The dinner sets the stage for Friday's structured summit talks.
Ceremonies and business push
The second day of Putin's visit will begin with a tribute at Rajghat, where he will honour Mahatma Gandhi — a customary gesture for visiting heads of state.
He will then receive a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhaban before holding structured summit discussions with Modi at Hyderabad House.
Following a working lunch, Putin will address the India-Russia Business Forum, aimed at boosting private-sector partnerships and investments.
His trip will conclude with a state banquet at Rashtrapati Bhaban, after which he is expected to depart around 9:30pm.
