PM Modi to visit Russia today, what's on agenda?

New Delhi: Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has announced the eagerly awaited upcoming visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Moscow, slated for July 8 to 9. This visit is poised to be a pivotal event for Russian-Indian relations, underscoring its significance amidst evolving global landscapes and geopolitical shifts, particularly since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in February 2022.

What's on agenda? 

Comprehensive review of Bilateral ties anticipated

The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi has disclosed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit will encompass a thorough evaluation of the entire spectrum of India-Russia relations. Scheduled discussions between Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin are expected to cover a wide array of contemporary regional and global issues of mutual concern.

Extensive agenda and informal engagements

Highlighting the intensity of the agenda, Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the visit promises to be robust and potentially hectic. He expressed optimism that amidst the official deliberations, there would also be opportunities for informal discussions between the leaders.

Strengthening strategic partnership

Peskov reiterated the strategic depth of Russian-Indian relations, describing them as a cornerstone of bilateral ties. The visit will feature not only bilateral talks between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin at the Kremlin but also broader engagements involving delegations from both countries, aimed at advancing various facets of cooperation.

Institutionalizing strategic dialogue

The annual summit between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin serves as the preeminent institutional mechanism for dialogue within the strategic partnership framework that binds India and Russia.

Historical context and past engagements

Modi's last visit to Russia was in 2019, when he participated in an economic conclave held in Vladivostok, underscoring the continuity and historical depth of bilateral engagements.

Global engagement and democratic principles

In a broader context of global engagement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently underscored the foundational principles of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law, emphasizing their role in fortifying partnerships, as seen in his forthcoming visit to Austria.

Anticipation builds for Vienna Visit

This anticipation coincides with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer expressing enthusiasm ahead of Prime Minister Modi's visit to Vienna, highlighting the significance of the upcoming diplomatic engagements.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Moscow marks a crucial juncture in Indo-Russian relations, navigating complex global dynamics while reinforcing longstanding ties and exploring avenues for future collaboration.