India-Russia Summit 2025: PM Modi, Putin Joint Statement Emphasizes Peace, Role in Resolving Ukraine Conflict

On Thursday evening, Russian President Vladimir Putin came to Delhi where Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed him with a handshake and a warm hug, breaking the rules a bit. This visit marks Putin’s first trip to India since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in February 2022 and it also aligns with the 23rd India-Russia summit.

At Hyderabad House, during the summit, the two leaders underlined India’s role as a peacemaker amid global conflicts. Modi expressed, “India is on the side of peace and is prepared to take up the cause in the continuous international efforts for stability.” The Russian President acknowledged India for its constant backing and spoke of the traditional friendship between the two countries.

Major Developments and Agreements:

Economic Cooperation: The two leaders declared a detailed economic cooperation plan for the next decade focusing on boosting trade and investment ties. Both countries marked a target to push their mutual trade overtaking USD 100 billion.

Defence Collaboration: Among the topics discussed were upgrading Su-30 jets, the supply of R-37 missiles, and the cooperation on S-400/500 air defence systems which ultimately strengthens India’s defence.

Energy and Technology: Putin has promised that India would receive oil without any interruption from Russia and in return both the countries showed interest in joining hands in the AI, space exploration, and hi-tech areas.

Cultural Gesture: Hindu holy scripture with the title Bhagavad Gita in Russian language was given as a gift from PM Modi to President Putin as a symbol of the countries’ common cultural and religious practices.

Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh pointed out the recent steps forward in military cooperation between the two countries, claiming the India-Russia ties to be a “North Star” that would direct the world powers’ strategic partnerships. The leaders also agreed to cooperate in the global arena especially in BRICS and G20 where the main issue will be multipolarity and the environment and social improvement through economic growth that is also sustainable.

The 23rd India-Russia summit not only underlines but also allows the world to see the bright side of India’s international relations policy of balancing among the big powers while retaining the traditional bond with Russia that goes back to trade, defence, energy, and technology.