External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a personal message and good wishes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to President Vladimir Putin in Moscow [1].
The exchange signals the continued strategic alignment between New Delhi and Moscow amid shifting global dynamics and upcoming multilateral summits.
Jaishankar met with Putin at the Kremlin during an official visit to Russia that lasted two days [1]. The visit took place from Aug. 23 to Aug. 24, 2024 [1]. During the meeting, Jaishankar handed over the personal message from Prime Minister Modi, which Putin acknowledged [2].
"Pleased to call on President Vladimir Putin of Russia in Moscow today," Jaishankar said [3].
Beyond the personal greetings, the two officials discussed the expanding partnership between India and Russia. Discussions focused on preparations for upcoming international gatherings, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), and BRICS summits [4].
Jaishankar specifically referenced the upcoming BRICS event during his discussions with the Russian president. "PM Modi looks forward welcoming you to India for the BRICS Summit," Jaishankar said [5].
The meeting occurred as part of a broader diplomatic effort to maintain stable ties between the two nations. Putin acknowledged the good wishes conveyed by Jaishankar on behalf of Modi [6].
This diplomatic engagement underscores India's approach of maintaining multiple strategic partnerships. By coordinating on BRICS and SCO agendas, both nations aim to strengthen their cooperation in a multipolar world, a goal reflected in the high-level nature of the Kremlin visit.
“"PM Modi looks forward welcoming you to India for the BRICS Summit."”
This meeting reinforces India's 'strategic autonomy' policy, demonstrating its ability to maintain a functional relationship with Russia despite Western diplomatic pressure. By focusing on the BRICS and SCO frameworks, India and Russia are signaling their commitment to non-Western-centric geopolitical blocs, ensuring that their bilateral trade and security cooperation remain insulated from external conflicts.
