Fri Dec 05 17:36:58 UTC 2025: Summary:
On December 5, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited India and met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting focused on strengthening the India-Russia relationship across various sectors, including energy, trade, and defense, with a vision extending to 2030. Modi described the India-Russia friendship as steadfast and emphasized the importance of a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Discussions included energy security, civil nuclear cooperation, and the Chennai-Vladivostok transport corridor. Putin highlighted the growing trade between the two countries and their shared vision for a multipolar world. Agreements were signed to enhance economic and people-to-people exchanges, including e-tourist visas for Russian nationals. Additionally, the Indian edition of the Russian state-owned English broadcaster, Russia Today, was launched.
News Article:
Modi and Putin Pledge Closer Ties, Eye $100 Billion Trade by 2030
New Delhi, December 5, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in New Delhi today, reaffirming the strong and enduring friendship between India and Russia. The leaders outlined ambitious plans for expanded cooperation in energy, trade, and other sectors, with a goal of reaching $100 billion in trade by 2030.
Modi praised Putin for elevating the relationship over the past 25 years, describing it as a “guiding star.” Both leaders emphasized the importance of a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with Modi reiterating India’s commitment to contributing to peace efforts.
“Over the past eight decades, the world has witnessed many ups and downs…yet, through all of this, the India-Russia friendship has remained steady,” Modi stated during a press briefing.
Energy security was a central theme, with discussions focusing on oil, nuclear energy, and related infrastructure. Putin highlighted Russia’s willingness to collaborate on small modular nuclear reactors, building upon the existing Kudankulam power plant.
Trade between the two nations reached $64 billion in 2024-25, and discussions are underway for a Free Trade Agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union.
In a move to boost tourism and people-to-people exchanges, India announced the grant of 30-day e-tourist visas to Russian nationals on a reciprocal basis.
Sixteen Memorandums of Understanding were signed, covering areas such as labor mobility, fertilizers, media collaboration, and academic partnerships. Adding a new dimension to media ties, Putin attended the launch of the Indian edition of Russia Today, marking the broadcaster’s second international venture.
The meeting comes amidst global scrutiny, particularly after the US imposed tariffs on India for purchasing Russian energy. Despite external pressures, both leaders underscored the independent nature of their foreign policies and their commitment to a multipolar world order.
First Piper 