Day two of President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi promises a full slate of diplomatic activities, highlighting the crucial strategic partnership between Russia and India. This marks his inaugural visit to the nation since the escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
President Putin’s schedule for Friday includes a formal ceremonial reception at the Presidential Palace at 11:00 AM. He will then proceed to Rajghat at 11:30 AM to lay a wreath in memory of Mahatma Gandhi. The highlight of the day, the annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will commence at 11:50 AM at Hyderabad House. Following their discussions, both leaders are expected to make press statements at 1:50 PM. The afternoon features a business engagement at 3:40 PM. Later, at 7:00 PM, President Putin will meet with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan before concluding his visit with a departure from New Delhi at 9:00 PM.
The 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit is poised to cover key aspects of their bilateral relations, including strengthening economic ties, bolstering defense cooperation, and aligning on regional security matters, underlining the strength of their long-standing alliance.
Earlier, Prime Minister Modi welcomed President Putin at the airport, breaking protocol in a show of personal warmth. The two leaders shared a friendly greeting and traveled together, continuing their discussions on the way to a dinner engagement at the Prime Minister’s official residence.