'Looking Forward To Reviewing Bilateral Ties With My Friend Putin': PM Modi on Russia Visit

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday began his two-day visit to Russia. During his stay in Moscow, he will meet President Vladimir Putin to discuss a range of issues. After concluding his engagements in Russia, PM Modi will visit Austria on July 9 and 10. 

Before departing, PM Modi stated that his upcoming visits to Russia and Austria would offer an opportunity to strengthen India's relations with both nations. He emphasized that India has a long-standing friendship with each country.

PM Modi-Putin Bilateral Meet

As he travels to Moscow on a high-profile visit, PM Modi said he is looking forward to reviewing all aspects of India-Russia ties with President Putin and sharing perspectives on various regional and global issues. Modi and Putin are set to explore ways to further expand bilateral relations in diverse areas at the 22nd India-Russia annual summit on Tuesday.

"The special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia has advanced over the past 10 years, including in the areas of energy, security, trade, investment, health, education, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges," Modi said in his departure statement.

"I look forward to reviewing all aspects of bilateral cooperation with my friend President Vladimir Putin and sharing perspectives on various regional and global issues," he said.

"We seek to play a supportive role for a peaceful and stable region. The visit will also provide me an opportunity to meet the vibrant Indian community in Russia," Modi said.

Ukraine war on agenda?

The key topic of discussion between the two leaders will be the Ukraine war, as the prolonged conflict continues to destabilise global markets and the security situation. With PM Modi having a first-hand view of the G-7 leaders on the Ukraine war during the Italy summit last month, he is well-positioned to convey to President Putin the futility of prolonging the conflict and to urge him to return to the negotiating table. PM Modi is one of the few global leaders who shares an excellent personal equation with the Russian leader, and they both hold mutual respect for each other.

PM Modi is expected to urge Putin to halt the recruitment of Indians for the conflict in Ukraine. Additionally, the PM also aims to strengthen cooperation with Russia in Space and Nuclear Energy sectors. India plans to activate Kudankulam Reactors III and IV with Russian assistance within the next two years, and initiate preparations for Reactors V and VI for the 6000 MW plant.

PM Modi's Itinerary in Russia

PM Modi's itinerary includes a private meeting with President Putin and a lunch hosted by the Russian President for the Prime Minister and his delegation. Additionally, PM Modi will be physically conferred with the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle the First-Called, the highest state decoration from the Russian Federation.

PM Modi in Austria

After concluding his engagements in Russia, Modi will leave for Austria in the first visit by an Indian prime minister to that country in over 40 years. The prime minister described Austria as India's "steadfast and reliable partner"

"In Austria, I will have the opportunity to meet President Alexander Van der Bellen and Chancellor Karl Nehammer," Modi said.

"Austria is our steadfast and reliable partner and we share the ideals of democracy and pluralism."

"This is the first visit of an Indian prime minister in over 40 years. I look forward to my discussions to take our partnership to even greater heights in new and emerging areas of innovation, technology and sustainable development among others," he said.

Modi said he was looking forward to exchanging views with business leaders from both sides to explore mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities.

"I will also be interacting with the Indian community in Austria which is well regarded for their professionalism and conduct," he said.