World leaders ditch protocol for a personal drive together
In a remarkable deviation from standard diplomatic security measures, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin surprised onlookers on Thursday by sharing a ride in a standard white SUV. Upon President Putin’s arrival at New Delhi's Palam Airport, the two leaders chose to travel together to the Prime Minister's residence, bypassing their respective high-security vehicular fleets.
Typically, such high-profile movements involve a convoy of heavily armoured specialized vehicles. However, setting aside his customary Range Rover, PM Modi invited the Russian leader to join him in a Toyota Fortuner. This gesture serves as a potent symbol of the deep personal rapport and trust shared between the two heads of state, moving beyond the formalities usually observed during state visits.
The Car That Caught Everyone's Eye
The vehicle in question, a Toyota Fortuner Sigma 4 MT bearing the registration number MH01EN5795, quickly became a topic of discussion online. Netizens tracking the event discovered that the SUV is a relatively new addition to the VIP security pool, registered in April 2024. The vehicle complies with BS-VI emission standards and holds a fitness certificate valid until 2039, ensuring it meets the stringent requirements for transporting top-tier dignitaries.
Leaving the "Moving Fortress" Behind
Perhaps the most significant aspect of this joint Modi Putin Fortuner ride was the absence of the Russian President's official state car. Usually, President Putin travels abroad with the Aurus Senat, a Russian-made limousine often compared to Rolls-Royce for its luxury and a tank for its defensive capabilities. The Aurus Senat is a central component of his security detail, designed to withstand massive attacks. By leaving this "moving fortress" behind to sit in a standard SUV with PM Modi, Putin demonstrated a rare level of comfort and informality.
A Warm Welcome at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg
The drive concluded at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, the official residence of the Prime Minister. The venue was decked out in the national flags of both India and Russia, ready to host the diplomatic engagements. While the capital city of Delhi is currently under strict traffic advisories and security lockdowns to facilitate the two-day visit, this brief, shared journey has already set a warm tone for the upcoming high-level talks.
