Putin's Visit to India: A Push for Stronger Ties

Russian President Vladimir Putin has landed in New Delhi for a two-day state visit designed to reinforce one of the globe's most resilient bilateral relationships. This visit underscores key areas such as trade, mobility, defense, energy, and regional security, showcasing a partnership that has shown remarkable consistency through modern challenges.

The two nations are set on addressing the current trade imbalance. India is advocating for an uptick in exports of seafood, potatoes, pomegranates, processed goods, consumer items, and pharmaceuticals. Simultaneously, India continues to depend on Russian fertilizers, with annual imports ranging from three to five million tonnes, aiming for enhanced collaborative efforts. A significant outcome anticipated is the finalization of a mobility agreement for skilled and semi-skilled workers, which is nearing completion. Furthermore, progress is being made on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Eurasian Economic Union, with both nations keen to conclude negotiations swiftly.

India’s diplomatic footprint in Russia is expanding, highlighted by the functioning consulate in Kazan and future plans for another in Yekaterinburg. A series of agreements related to trade, economic ventures, healthcare, and media are expected to be established during this visit. Generally, defense agreements are not made public, but sources suggest substantial discussions will occur, including India's interest in procuring more S-400 missile systems and examining the S-500 platform due to its commendable performance. Conversations surrounding Su-57 stealth fighters and possible interactions concerning the Su-75 Checkmate stealth fighter are also anticipated.

In terms of energy, Russia is allegedly proposing further discounts on crude oil as global market conditions evolve. Moscow is providing India with extensive access to Su-57 fighter technologies, with expectations to initially supply aircraft from Russia before transitioning production to India. Their enduring counter-terrorism collaboration, which dates back to 2002, will persist as a central aspect of diplomatic engagement. Major global issues, notably the Russia-Ukraine conflict, will also be on the table, with India advocating for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve tensions.

On December 5, Putin’s agenda includes an official welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, tributes at Rajghat, high-level discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a joint press briefing, a business forum with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu before his departure in the evening.