Putin accepts Modi’s invite to visit India, Russia says its ‘now our turn’

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India, with preparations already underway. Russia has stated that it is now their turn to reciprocate after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Moscow last year.

Putin has officially accepted Modi’s invitation, according to Russia’s foreign minister Sergey Lavrov. While the exact date has not been confirmed, the visit is expected to be significant for both countries. This will be Putin’s first trip to India since the Ukraine conflict began in 2022.

India and Russia have maintained strong economic ties despite global tensions. While Western nations imposed sanctions on Moscow, India continued bilateral trade, which currently stands at $60 billion per year. The upcoming Modi-Putin meeting is expected to focus on an economic roadmap aimed at increasing trade to over $100 billion by 2030.

A key element in this economic partnership is the Chennai-Vladivostok maritime corridor, which is expected to enhance trade between the two nations. This route will facilitate the transportation of goods and resources, strengthening economic cooperation.

Lavrov has also indicated that Russia is looking to develop a "special and privileged strategic partnership" with India, which could expand cooperation in areas such as defense, technology, and global diplomacy.

Putin’s last visit to India was in December 2021, a few months before the Ukraine conflict began. With global alliances shifting, this visit could play a crucial role in shaping future Indo-Russian relations.

While the details of the visit are still being finalized, it is expected to be an important diplomatic event with long-term implications for both countries.