Putin arrives this evening; both sides to ink several agreements to boost partnership
Summary
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host Russian President Vladimir Putin in New Delhi for the 23rd India-Russia summit, where the two sides are expected to sign several agreements on trade, defence and energy cooperation. The talks come amid tensions in India-US relations and renewed Western sanctions pressure over Russian oil purchases.
Key Points
- Modi will host Putin in New Delhi for a private dinner and the 23rd India-Russia summit, followed by a ceremonial welcome, working lunch and state banquet.
- The summit is expected to focus on defence cooperation, trade, energy ties and ways to shield India-Russia commerce from external pressure.
- The two sides are likely to sign agreements on worker movement, logistical support and trade expansion, while discussing S-400 systems and possibly Su-57 fighter jets.
- India is expected to press Russia on its widening trade deficit and the impact of US sanctions on crude oil purchases.
