Russian President Vladimir Putin will arrive in India on December 4 for a two-day State visit as part of the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed. The visit, scheduled from December 4 to 5, will see Putin hold extensive talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a significant moment in the long-standing partnership between the two nations. Both leaders are expected to assess the progress made across key pillars of the bilateral relationship and outline the next phase of cooperation.
Strategic partnership, defence ties and trade issues on the agenda
According to the MEA, the summit will allow the leadership of both countries to “review progress in bilateral relations, set the vision for strengthening the special and privileged strategic partnership, and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.” A corresponding statement from the Kremlin added that Modi and Putin will discuss “all aspects” of Russia–India ties, alongside broader regional and international developments.
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As per an Economic Times report, ahead of the visit, a four-member Russian Land Forces delegation was in India from November 26 to 28 to engage with Indian Army formations. The visit focused on expert exchanges related to the integrated safety and security of defence infrastructure. The Indian Army described these interactions as reflective of the enduring spirit of India–Russia defence cooperation and the ongoing effort to strengthen long-standing military ties.
Putin, who recently spoke about the depth of Moscow’s relationship with New Delhi, described India as a nation with whom Russia has shared “a special character” of ties since the Soviet era. He also noted that the strategic partnership, established nearly fifteen years ago, continues to evolve without “interstate frictions.” The Russian President praised Modi as “a balanced, wise leader” with a strong national vision recognised widely in India.
The ET report also noted that as part of ongoing discussions, Putin highlighted the need to address logistical and financing hurdles to unlock greater trade potential between the two countries. He suggested that both sides explore solutions through BRICS mechanisms, bilateral arrangements involving the rupee and third-country currencies, and the expansion of electronic settlement systems.
Putin’s visit, hosted at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, is expected to reinforce India and Russia’s long-standing strategic partnership and set the stage for deeper engagement across economic, defence and geopolitical domains.
