Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Russia next week and meet with President Vladimir Putin. This comes as the US and other Western countries have been trying to isolate Russia for its invasion of Ukraine.
India’s foreign ministry says Modi will start a two-day tour from Monday and engage in talks with Putin. It will be Modi’s first official visit to the country since the invasion began.
New Delhi is a traditional partner of Moscow in areas such as defense. It has repeatedly abstained on UN resolutions demanding an immediate withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukraine, maintaining a neutral stance. But it has been strengthening economic ties with Moscow and increasing its imports of Russian oil.
The Kremlin says the talks will focus on developing the traditionally friendly ties between the two countries, as well as regional and international issues.
Observers say Putin is seeking Modi’s understanding for Moscow’s position amid the deepening confrontation with the West. They say he is looking to develop cooperation with New Delhi, seen as a leader of the Global South.