Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a significant visit to Moscow on Monday, marking his first trip to Russia since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine and his recent re-election. The visit underscores India’s delicate balancing act between its historical ties with Russia and its burgeoning security relations with the West.
Upon arrival, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with Moscow’s Indian community before an informal meeting with President Vladimir Putin at his residence in Novo-Ogaryovo. The leaders shared tea on a terrace, rode a golf cart together, and visited stables, reflecting the warmth of their personal rapport.
“It’s a moment of joy to visit and chat here this evening,”Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed, thanking President Vladimir Putin for the opportunity. He later tweeted a photo of their warm embrace, looking forward to productive discussions aimed at strengthening India-Russia friendship.
India and Russia have long maintained a robust partnership, with Moscow serving as a crucial supplier of discounted oil and military hardware. However, Russia’s geopolitical isolation and its closer ties with Beijing have tested this enduring relationship. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s last visit to Russia was in 2019, followed by President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi in 2021, shortly before Russia’s military actions in Ukraine began.
The conflict in Ukraine has also affected India directly, prompting New Delhi to urge Moscow to repatriate Indian nationals who were reportedly involved in non-combat roles but tragically lost their lives in the hostilities.
Amidst concerns over Russia’s deepening alliance with China, India has maintained its stance in the Quad alliance alongside the US, Japan, and Australia, countering Beijing’s assertiveness in the Asia-Pacific region.
While Russia has traditionally been India’s largest arms supplier, recent developments have prompted New Delhi to diversify its sources, including enhancing its domestic defence production capabilities. India’s imports of Russian oil have surged, providing a critical market for Moscow amidst Western sanctions.
However, these increased imports have widened India’s trade deficit with Russia, which stood at over $57 billion in the last financial year. Despite economic implications, India remains pivotal in sustaining Russia’s energy exports.
From Moscow, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will proceed to Vienna, marking the first official visit by an Indian leader to Austria’s capital since 1983, highlighting India’s diplomatic engagements beyond its traditional allies.
