New Delhi, India — Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on Thursday for a two-day state visit, marking his first trip to India since the start of the Ukraine conflict nearly four years ago. In a rare diplomatic gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed Putin at the airport, underscoring the importance New Delhi places on its long-standing partnership with Moscow.
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Putin, accompanied by senior ministers and a large business delegation, is in India as both nations work to deepen economic cooperation across sectors beyond their traditional focus on energy and defence. His visit aims to broaden bilateral engagement at a time when Russia is seeking new commercial avenues and India continues to balance global strategic relationships.
Modi greeted the Russian president on the red carpet with a warm embrace, a courtesy extended only on select occasions. The Indian leader last personally received a foreign head of state when Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani visited in February, and previously welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump during his 2020 visit.
The two leaders are scheduled to hold private discussions over dinner on Thursday, followed by formal summit talks on Friday. Their agenda includes a wide-ranging review of regional and global developments, as well as efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
A number of agreements are expected to be signed during the visit, covering trade, economic collaboration, healthcare, academic exchanges, culture, and media partnerships.
President Droupadi Murmu will also formally receive President Putin and host a state banquet in his honour, highlighting the ceremonial significance of the visit.
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