Boarding his special plane from Delhi to Moscow’s Vnukovo-II VIP airport, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he would discuss the full range of bilateral issues with his “friend Russian President Vladimir Putin” during his two-day 26-hour visit to Russia for the 22nd Annual Summit, including in the areas of “energy, security, trade, investment, health, education, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges,” also indicating the war in Ukraine is on the agenda for talks.
“I look forward to reviewing all aspects of bilateral cooperation with my friend President Vladimir Putin and sharing perspectives on various regional and global issues. We seek to play a supportive role for a peaceful and stable region,” Mr. Modi said.
The summit comes at a crucial time, as the geopolitical landscape is undergoing significant changes. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, rising energy prices, and shifting trade dynamics are expected to be key discussion points between the two leaders. Both countries have shared a historically strong partnership, and this summit aims to further solidify their ties.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to meet with various Russian business leaders and key officials to explore new avenues for economic cooperation and investment. Discussions will cover a broad spectrum of sectors including defense, technology, and infrastructure development, reflecting the comprehensive nature of the India-Russia relationship.
The visit also underscores the cultural and educational exchanges that have been a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship. Prime Minister Modi is expected to engage with the Indian diaspora in Russia and participate in cultural events that highlight the rich and diverse traditions of both nations.
In light of the global health challenges, cooperation in the field of healthcare and pharmaceuticals will be a significant focus. The leaders will explore collaborative efforts in vaccine development and distribution, medical research, and healthcare technology.
As the world watches, the outcomes of this summit will likely have far-reaching implications not only for India and Russia but also for regional and global stability. The commitment to maintaining and enhancing this strategic partnership is evident, as both nations strive to address current challenges and seize future opportunities together.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Russia reaffirms the enduring bond between the two countries and sets the stage for continued collaboration and mutual growth in the years to come.
