Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on a critically engaging foreign tour from July 8-10, which includes a significant visit to Russia. The Russian Federation has issued a statement suggesting that the West views PM Modi's visit with a sentiment of 'envy', describing his itinerary as 'substantial and complete'. Following his Russia tour, the Prime Minister will also visit Austria on July 10.
In preparation for the 22nd annual summit between India and Russia, President Vladimir Putin extended an invitation to PM Modi, who will be in Moscow from July 8-9. This visit marks Modi's first trip to Russia since the February 2022 military actions in Ukraine. India's Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that the high-level discussions will review bilateral relations and address regional and global topics of mutual interest.
Responding to a query about PM Modi's impending journey, Putin's Press Secretary mentioned that the agenda is expansive and talks could also potentially happen informally. 'We are anticipating a highly important and extensive visit, crucial for Russian-Indian relations,' he noted.
Putin's Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov expressed that ties between Russia and India are at the strategic partnership level and talks will occur at both one-on-one and delegation levels. He highlighted, 'We are expecting a very meaningful and complete visit that is paramount for Russian-Indian relations.'
Speaking on the Western gaze upon PM Modi's visit, Peskov remarked that Western nations are monitoring closely, with keen interest and envy. Their attentive surveillance indicates its significance, and they are not mistaken – it does hold substantial importance. Modi has consistently spoken about the conflict and has made several calls to the Ukrainian president, urging for an end to the conflict that poses a threat to the global economy.
