Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India on December 4 and 5 for a significant state engagement, highlighted by the 23rd India-Russia Summit on December 5. Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov has confirmed that preparations are actively underway in collaboration with Indian officials, with both New Delhi and Moscow expected to make simultaneous announcements as the dates approach. This visit is part of the annual summit commitment between President Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Ushakov has characterized the trip as “extremely grand” due to its state visit status, anticipating it to be “fruitful in every sense,” as stated in an interview with VGTRK Russian State TV. The summit will serve as a vital platform for comprehensive discussions on enhancing bilateral relations and addressing pressing global issues, building on recent high-level exchanges, including External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar’s visit to Moscow, where Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed the timeline for these engagements.
In preparation for President Putin’s visit, India and Russia are diligently working to finalize a series of bilateral agreements, initiatives, and projects that will be discussed during the 23rd Annual India-Russia Summit. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently engaged in extensive discussions with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, in Moscow to facilitate these developments. Jaishankar has underscored that the forthcoming agreements will significantly enhance the depth and substance of the long-standing Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between the two nations, thereby reinforcing their multifaceted cooperation. The agenda for the summit also encompasses discussions on critical global and regional stability issues, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, tensions in the Middle East, and the situation in Afghanistan. India remains committed to supporting peace initiatives and advocates for an early resolution to conflicts, recognizing the essential role of stability in the international community.
