Against a backdrop of growing geopolitical friction and shifting alliances, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China, reaffirming their nations’ “special and privileged” strategic bond and signaling its continued vitality amid rising tensions with the United States
Defying Adversity with Strategic Solidarity
Modi highlighted the unwavering nature of India–Russia relations, stating, “Even in the most difficult situations, India and Russia have always walked shoulder to shoulder. Our close cooperation is important not only for the people of both countries but also for global peace, stability, and prosperity”. In response, Putin affectionately addressed Modi as "dear friend" and praised their decades-long “friendly, trusting” partnership as a stable foundation for future growth.
A Snapshot of Warm Diplomacy
The optics of their engagement—chatting amicably, sharing a handshake, and even riding together in Putin’s armored Aurus limousine—spoke volumes. Modi captured the moment with a photo posted on X, writing “Always a delight to meet President Putin!”
Trade, Energy & Strategic Ambitions
The timing of this reaffirmation comes amid significant economic tension. The Trump administration recently slapped a steep 50% tariff on Indian imports in response to New Delhi’s continued imports of discount Russian crude oil. Yet, India remains undeterred—Russia now supplies around 36–37% of India’s crude oil, and bilateral trade soared to $68.7 billion in the financial year 2024–25, with the ambitious goal of hitting $100 billion by 2030.
Their talks covered a wide-ranging agenda—from energy, fertilizer, space, security, to culture—showcasing a diversified cooperation beyond mere oil trade.
Peace, Ukraine, and Global Stability
India once again emphasized its long-held position on the Russia–Ukraine war, calling for a swift and lasting resolution. Modi urged all stakeholders to proceed constructively toward achieving peace, describing it as “the call of humanity”.
Putin, while appreciating India’s balanced stance, reiterated Russia’s stance that addressing NATO’s expansion is crucial to lasting peace in Ukraine, framing the conflict as a defensive reaction to Western encroachment.
Diplomatic Choreography Amid Shifting Alignments
The SCO summit brought another compelling image to the fore: the warm camaraderie among Russia’s Putin, India’s Modi, and China’s Xi Jinping—embracing handshakes, smiles, and mutual expressions of goodwill, reinforcing the trilateral bonds of the Russia-India-China (RIC) grouping.
Looking Ahead: December Summit & Multipolar Strategy
Putin is slated to travel to India in December for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit, a further sign of deepening engagement.
Analysts interpret the meeting as a calculated reaffirmation of India’s multi-alignment strategy—balancing ties with Russia, managing relations with the U.S., and maintaining engagement with China, all while preserving strategic autonomy.
Summary Table
| Theme |
Key Highlight |
| Strategic Bond |
Modi and Putin affirm “special and privileged” relationship amid global tensions |
| Economic Ties |
Surge in oil & trade ties; ambitious goal of $100B bilateral trade by 2030 |
| Diplomatic Symbolism |
Shared Aurus limousine ride, handshakes, smiling camaraderie at SCO summit |
| Ukraine Conflict |
Modi urges peace, Putin links resolution to NATO expansion |
| Global Strategy |
India pursues multi-alignment; a possible December summit on the horizon |
Summary
the Modi–Putin meeting at the SCO is more than a diplomatic gesture—it’s a powerful affirmation of evolving international dynamics. Faced with pressure from Washington, New Delhi reaffirmed a longstanding partnership with Moscow, underlining its commitment to diverse, strategic, and value-based foreign policy orientation.
