PM Modi's Moscow Mission: Strengthening India-Russia Ties Amid Global Tensions

Destination Moscow marks Modi 3.0's first foreign state visit, conveying an unmissable geopolitical message in a world in churn. The Indian Prime Minister and Russian President set the stage for a globally impactful meeting at the 22nd India-Russia summit, affirming India's oldest and most robust diplomatic relationship even as India navigates a new multilateral identity. Over the next two days, Modi and Putin will review a wide range of bilateral ties, including defense, investment, energy cooperation, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. This visit is notable as PM Modi's first trip to Russia since Putin's military offensive in Ukraine in February 2022, highlighting the summit's significant timing. Concurrently, a major NATO Summit takes place in Washington, D.C., with 32 NATO countries' leaders and Ukraine's president in attendance. Despite criticisms of India's stance on Russia amid the Ukraine conflict, Modi's foreign office has adeptly managed a polarizing set of issues and relationships. Putin has also stirred the proceedings by critiquing a 'jealous west' over the India-Russia handshake. The enduring Modi-Putin relationship remains steadfast, with global eyes on the summit's outcomes and its implications for a troubled world. Watch this exclusive groud coverage from Moscow By India Today's Gaurav Sawant