Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that Moscow is ready to provide “uninterrupted shipments” of fuel to India, as he reached a deal in a New Delhi summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to “reshape” their defence ties amid intensive United States pressure.
“Russia is a reliable supplier of oil, gas, coal, and everything that is required for the development of India’s energy,” Putin told Modi following their bilateral meeting, which was also dominated by discussions about sanctions, tariffs and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
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“We are ready to continue uninterrupted shipments of fuel for the fast-growing Indian economy.”
The two leaders also pledged to reshape their defence ties to take account of New Delhi’s push for “self-reliance”.
“The partnership is currently being reoriented toward joint research and development, as well as the production of advanced defence platforms,” their joint statement said.
Friday’s summit is Putin’s first visit to India since the start of Russia’s full-fledged war on Ukraine in 2022, and comes as India is seeking a reprieve from punishing US tariffs related to its purchase of Russian oil.
Modi thanked Putin for his “unwavering commitment towards India”, and said “energy security has been a strong and important pillar of the India-Russia partnership.”
While he referenced nuclear power, Modi made no specific reference to Russian oil purchase, which had earlier resulted in the imposition of a 50 percent US tariff on most Indian products.
Modi addressed “my friend” Putin and praised New Delhi and Moscow’s longstanding ties.
“We have agreed on an economic cooperation programme until 2030,” Modi told Putin, after officials exchanged a number of agreements spanning jobs, health, shipping, and chemicals.
“This will ensure that our trade and investment are diversified, balanced, and sustainable.”
Putin’s visit comes as Moscow hopes to boost ties with India, already the top buyer of Russian arms. Officials have said they want to increase trade with India to $100bn by 2030 – up from an already all-time high of $68bn in 2024.
Friday’s agenda began with a morning visit to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the presidential palace, for a meeting with India’s ceremonial head of state, Droupadi Murmu. Murmu was joined by Modi in welcoming Putin with an honour guard ceremony.
Putin then travelled to Raj Ghat and placed a wreath at the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the anti-colonial movement that paved the way to Indian independence.
Putin and Modi then proceeded to hold meetings at the Hyderabad House complex.
Al Jazeera’s Neha Poonia, reporting from New Delhi, said Putin’s trip was held with “much fanfare”.
On Thursday, Modi gave Putin a warm welcome, personally greeting him on the tarmac in New Delhi with a hug and a handshake. He later hosted the Russi