New Delhi/Moscow: In a major diplomatic development, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval confirmed on Wednesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s much-anticipated visit to India is nearly finalised, marking a significant step in reinforcing the time-tested ties between the two nations.
Speaking during a high-level interaction in Moscow, Doval said, “We are very excited and delighted to know about President Putin’s visit to India. I think the dates have almost been finalised now.”
According to the report, the visit, expected to take place later this year, signals renewed momentum in the enduring India-Russia strategic partnership, with both nations aiming to deepen collaboration in defence, energy, and global multilateral platforms such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
Doval emphasised the unique nature of the bilateral relationship, describing it as “very special and long-term,” built on sustained high-level engagements. “We greatly value our strategic partnership. These high-level meetings have made a very significant contribution,” he noted.
Earlier in the day, Doval met Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu, who underlined the strong political trust and mutual respect anchoring the relationship. “A multi-level, trust-based political dialogue is effectively functioning between our countries, guided by regular contacts between President Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Shoigu said, according to Russian state media TASS.
Shoigu stressed Moscow’s commitment to strengthening what he termed the “special and privileged strategic partnership” with India. He called for intensified cooperation in shaping a more just and sustainable world order, upholding international law, and jointly addressing global threats.
The Kremlin had earlier confirmed Putin’s intent to visit India, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating the plan back in November 2024.
Doval, on his part, expressed optimism that the upcoming summit would yield “tangible and substantial” outcomes and chart new directions for bilateral cooperation.
The NSA’s Moscow trip comes at a critical juncture, as New Delhi seeks to navigate strategic partnerships amidst mounting global tensions. According to local sources, Doval is scheduled to hold talks with senior Russian officials on key issues including defence collaboration and energy security.
Notably, Doval’s visit coincided with fresh economic pressure from the United States, as President Donald Trump issued an executive order imposing an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods—raising the total tariff to 50%—in retaliation for India’s continued purchase of Russian oil.
Despite such geopolitical turbulence, India and Russia appear resolute in their commitment to deepening cooperation—an assertion likely to be reinforced during President Putin’s upcoming visit.
