Prime Minister Narendra Modi is begenning for a two-day visit to Russia from July 8 to 9, marking his first trip to the country since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Narendra Modi is in Russia today for a two-day official visit, accepting an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin for the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit. Modi's agenda in Moscow is packed with significant meetings and events.
This visit marks Modi's first trip to Russia in three years. India's Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, emphasized the visit's importance for strengthening bilateral ties and addressing regional and mutual interests. Breaking tradition, Modi chose Russia as his first official visit destination after the election, amidst Russia's international isolation due to the Ukraine conflict.
The previous India-Russia Annual Summit was held in December 2021 in New Delhi, with President Putin visiting the capital. Over the past decade, Modi and Putin have met 16 times, highlighting the close relationship between the two nations. Modi last visited Russia in 2019 for an economic forum in Vladivostok. Historically, India and Russia have maintained strong ties, particularly during the Cold War, with Russia being a major arms supplier to India.
PM Modi Visits Russia, What's on Agenda
Modi's Moscow agenda includes discussions with Putin on regional and global issues of mutual interest at the Kremlin. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra indicated that Indo-Pacific developments would be a significant part of their talks, starting with a private discussion followed by delegation-level talks.
Modi will also engage with the Indian community in Russia.
A cultural event on July 9 will feature performances by Russian artists trained in the Indian classical dance, Kathak, highlighting India-Russia cultural ties. Major announcements are unlikely, but the visit aims to signal the continued close relationship between India and Russia.
Russia's growing relationship with China is expected to be a topic of discussion, given the stalled Indo-China relations since the 2020 border incursions in Ladakh. China's sea aggression is likely to be discussed, with India being a member of the Quad alongside the US, Japan, and Australia, which aims to counterbalance China's assertiveness in the Asia-Pacific region.
India seeks more predictability from Russia and aims to play a larger role in promoting peace in Ukraine. Modi may question Putin about Russia's close ties with China. Trade imbalance issues are also on the agenda, with India importing $60 billion worth of Russian goods while exporting only $5 billion to Russia.
The human cost of the Ukraine war for Indians is likely to be discussed. Some reports suggest that Indians in Russia were forced into combat roles and lost their lives in Ukraine. India, while not explicitly condemning Russia, is negotiating the release of its citizens involved in support jobs with the Russian military.
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