Decades-Long Friendship: Modi and Putin Meet at SCO Summit

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed their long-standing ties on Monday, highlighting the “decades-long friendly and trusting relations” between India and Russia.

On the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Tianjin, China, Modi and Putin shared a warm moment, with Modi holding Putin’s hand as they walked toward Chinese President Xi Jinping. The leaders smiled and exchanged words, with translators assisting the conversation. Later, Modi posted a picture on X (formerly Twitter) showing him and Putin inside Putin’s armoured Aurus limousine, a vehicle the Russian leader often uses on foreign trips.

“Even in the most difficult situations, India and Russia have always walked shoulder to shoulder,” Modi said. “Our close cooperation is important not only for the people of both countries but also for global peace, stability, and prosperity.”

During their bilateral meeting, Putin addressed Modi as “Dear Mr Prime Minister, dear friend” and emphasized that the strong, trusting relations between the two nations provide a foundation for future collaboration.

Modi also welcomed recent efforts to end the war in Ukraine, expressing hope for a peaceful resolution. Earlier, he had reaffirmed his support for a settlement during a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

Following the meeting, Modi shared on X: “Had an excellent meeting with President Putin. We discussed cooperation in all sectors, including trade, fertilisers, space, security, and culture. Our Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership remains a vital pillar of regional and global stability.”

China and India remain the largest buyers of Russian crude oil, despite additional tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Both countries appear committed to continuing their energy partnerships with Russia.