PM Modi and Putin set for private dinner as India–Russia talks enter crucial phase
New Delhi – Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a private dinner for Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday evening, marking the start of an intense 24-hour visit that blends diplomacy, strategy and symbolism. Putin will land in New Delhi for his first India trip since 2021. Modi will welcome him personally, setting the tone for discussions that will cover bilateral ties and major global issues.
To understand the significance, it helps to look at the context. India and Russia have maintained a steady partnership despite global tensions and shifting geopolitical lines. Their annual summit remains the key platform to review cooperation across defence, energy, trade and technology. Last year, Modi visited Moscow, where Putin hosted him for a private dinner. Modi will now reciprocate in New Delhi, signalling the personal rapport between the two leaders.
As Putin arrives, both sides will begin with quiet, high-level conversations at the PM’s residence. Modi will use the setting to discuss sensitive matters away from cameras. Putin will also seek clarity on India’s long-term energy strategy and defence requirements. Both leaders aim to narrow gaps in trade, where Russia enjoys a heavy surplus due to India’s large oil purchases.
On Friday morning, the visit will move into its formal phase. Modi will receive Putin at Rashtrapati Bhavan with a ceremonial welcome and a tri-services guard of honour. Putin will then visit Raj Ghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. These steps will set the diplomatic atmosphere before the core negotiations begin.
Next, the two leaders will hold restricted talks at Hyderabad House. They will then expand discussions to include their delegations. Officials expect a series of agreements focusing on trade, agriculture, education, connectivity and energy cooperation. Both sides want to diversify their trade basket. India seeks more access to Russian markets, especially for pharmaceuticals, textiles, engineering goods and agricultural products. Although two-way trade crossed $68 billion last year, India’s share remained below $5 billion.
Later, Modi and Putin will address a major business forum organised by FICCI and Roscongress at Bharat Mandapam. Here, industry leaders will showcase projects that can rebalance trade and push investment partnerships. The forum will highlight opportunities in manufacturing, technology and energy, sectors where both sides want rapid progress.
Even before the visit, defence cooperation showed fresh momentum. Russia’s Parliament ratified the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS) this week. The pact allows both countries to use each other’s bases for military logistics, refuelling and emergency support. It mirrors LEMOA, which India signed with the United States. The agreement simplifies naval and air force movements during exercises and humanitarian missions.
Meanwhile, Russian officials confirmed that New Delhi and Moscow will also discuss key defence supplies. These include the S-400 air defence system, Su-57 fighter jets and small modular reactors for nuclear energy. India views these systems as essential for long-term strategic security.
After launching the Indian channel of Russian broadcaster RT on Friday evening, Putin will attend a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu. He will then conclude his brief but high-impact visit.
Modi and Putin now step into a crucial phase of the partnership. Both leaders aim to stabilise global positions, secure energy routes, deepen defence ties and correct trade imbalances. Their dinner conversation tonight may set the direction for India–Russia relations in the decade ahead.
