PM Modi breaks protocol to welcome Russian President in Delhi personally
The diplomatic bond between New Delhi and Moscow took center stage on Thursday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi set aside standard diplomatic formalities to personally welcome Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a significant gesture highlighting the "special and privileged" strategic partnership between the two nations, PM Modi received the Russian President at the Palam Technical Airport upon his arrival.
Adding to the warmth of the reception, the two leaders departed the airport together in the same vehicle. This break from routine protocol signals a strong start to President Putin’s two-day state visit, his first trip to India since the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine in 2022.
A Personal Touch to Diplomacy
Witnesses at the airport noted that President Putin waited for approximately ten minutes for Prime Minister Modi to join him before the convoy moved. This shared ride mirrors a similar instance from September in Tianjin, China, where both leaders traveled together in the Russian President's Aurus Senat limousine during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. Such gestures underscore the personal chemistry and deep rapport shared by the two leaders.
The 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit
The primary agenda for this visit is the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, scheduled to take place on December 5. The timing of this meeting is critical as it reinforces India's strategic autonomy on the global stage. Despite mounting pressure from Western nations regarding the purchase of Russian oil and the ongoing geopolitical isolation of Moscow, India has maintained a balanced approach, prioritizing its national interests and historical defense ties.
Key Issues on the Table
During the summit, New Delhi and Moscow are expected to solidify their economic and security frameworks. High-level discussions will likely cover:
This visit serves as a message to the world that the India-Russia alliance remains resilient. On Friday, President Putin’s itinerary includes a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by a visit to Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
