Russia and India are set to enhance strategic ties with Putin's upcoming visit

Russia and India are poised to elevate their bilateral relationship to unprecedented levels, as Russian President Vladimir Putin prepares for an official visit to India.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced the impending visit during a televised address, highlighting the meticulous preparations underway for this significant diplomatic engagement.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi prioritized Russia for his first international visit after securing his third consecutive term. Now, it is our turn to reciprocate," Lavrov remarked, underscoring the deepening ties between the two nations.

While the precise date of President Putin's visit remains unspecified, Lavrov confirmed that arrangements are actively being made.

During Prime Minister Modi's visit to Russia last year, an invitation was extended to President Putin for an official state visit to India, which the Russian leader accepted.

Lavrov reiterated this development during a conference titled "Russia and India: Toward a New Bilateral Agenda," organized by the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC).

This forthcoming visit marks President Putin's first trip to India since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine in February 2022. Central to the visit will be discussions on President Putin's "new economic roadmap" for 2030.

A key objective for both nations is to double their bilateral trade to exceed $100 billion annually, up from the current level of approximately $60 billion.

India and Russia are also focusing on expanding trade routes, including the vital Chennai-Vladivostok maritime trade corridor, which will facilitate increased supply exchanges. 

Earlier this week, Lavrov confirmed Russia's aspiration to redefine its partnership with India, envisioning a "special and privileged strategic partnership."

In a message to Indian President Droupadi Murmu, President Putin emphasized the foundational strength of Russia-India relations and expressed confidence in enhancing cooperative efforts across various sectors.

He stated, "These efforts align with our aim to establish a fair, multi-polar international order, benefiting the fundamental interests of our friendly peoples." 

This engagement signals a renewed commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation amid a dynamically evolving global landscape.