In a statement released by the Russia-based news agency Tass, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov revealed that the West is “closely and jealously” monitoring Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forthcoming visit to Russia. The visit is scheduled for July 8-9, marking an event of significant diplomatic importance. “They are jealous—that means they are closely monitoring it. Their close monitoring means they attach great importance to it. And they are not mistaken, there is something to attach great importance to,” Peskov was quoted as saying by Tass.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s agenda in Moscow is set to be comprehensive and crucial. Discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin will primarily focus on regional and global issues that are of mutual concern to both nations. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra pointed out that the Indo-Pacific developments are anticipated to be a major topic of discussion, highlighting their significance for both India and Russia.
Upon his arrival in Russia, PM Modi is expected to engage with the Indian community residing there, followed by a visit to the Kremlin. The day’s events will culminate in strategic talks with President Putin. “These engagements will begin with a restricted-level discussion between the two leaders, followed by delegation-level talks,” Foreign Secretary Kwatra affirmed.
In conjunction with the diplomatic schedule, a vibrant community event is poised to strengthen the cultural ties between India and Russia. This event, slated for July 9, coincides with PM Modi’s visit to Russia for the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit, invited by President Vladimir Putin. The highlight of this cultural exchange will feature performances by Russian artists specifically trained in Kathak dance, a classical Indian dance form.
Natalia, one of the Russian performers, expressed her excitement about the event. “I have been learning Kathak dance for the past 7 years, and I am thrilled to finally perform my favourite art form in front of PM Narendra Modi. His visit to Moscow signifies the strong relationship between our two beloved countries,” she said.
.
India’s Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, speaking to ANI, emphasized the importance of PM Modi’s visit, particularly noting that it is happening after a three-year hiatus. “The visit of PM Modi is very important for the two leaders to exchange views on developments in bilateral ties and to discuss other regional and important issues of mutual interest,” Vinay Kumar stated. He underscored that the two nations have a tradition of annual summit-level meetings between the Russian President and the Indian Prime Minister. The last such summit occurred in December 2021 when Russian President Vladimir Putin visited New Delhi.
This upcoming visit marks the 22nd iteration of the India-Russia Annual Bilateral Summit. It was first initiated decades ago to cement relations and foster cooperation on issues ranging from defense to culture. Peskov’s remarks on the West’s keen interest in the summit underscore the global implications of the dialogues set to take place.
The emphasis on the Indo-Pacific developments within these talks is particularly noteworthy. This region has become a focal point of international relations, involving several key players beyond Russia and India, including the United States, China, and other ASEAN countries. The discussions are expected to touch on security, trade routes, maritime partnership, and potential collaborations, which could have lasting impacts on the strategic balance in the Indo-Pacific.
Furthermore, the cultural event, featuring Kathak dance performances by Russian artists, showcases the depth of cultural exchange and mutual appreciation between the two countries. It highlights the people-to-people ties that form the bedrock of any bilateral relationship. Such events not only provide an opportunity for cultural diplomacy but also embody the shared values and mutual respect that is often celebrated in official dialogues.
Summing it up, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Russia is being meticulously watched by the West, as indicated by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. With an agenda packed with high-level discussions on critical regional and global affairs and a cultural showcase, the visit stands as a testament to the robust and multifaceted relationship between India and Russia. The outcomes of this summit will likely have far-reaching consequences, making it a pivotal moment in contemporary international relations.
As PM Modi embarks on this crucial diplomatic mission, it remains to be seen how the dialogue will shape future interactions and collaborations not only between India and Russia but also within the broader international community.
