In an interview with India Today shortly before his arrival at Delhi’s Palam airport, Vladimir Putin remarked that India must be seen as a major world power and not as a former British possession. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed him upon landing.
Putin spoke at length about the long-standing defence and trade partnership between India and Russia, pointing out that most transactions between the two nations now take place in their own currencies. According to him, this shift reduces dependence on the US dollar and creates a more balanced economic relationship.
When asked about Western attempts to pressure India through sanctions, especially regarding oil trade, Putin responded that the world can no longer address India in the same tone it did seven decades ago. He said India’s independence changed its position permanently and that global players must respect this reality.
He reserved special praise for Prime Minister Modi, describing him as a leader who does not bend easily under outside pressure. Putin said the Indian public has every reason to be proud of a leader whose firm yet calm approach reflects confidence rather than aggression. He added that both countries aspire not to create conflict but to safeguard their legitimate interests.
Putin also spoke about how his association with Modi extends beyond formal diplomacy, describing it as both professional and personal. In his view, Modi sets ambitious goals for himself, his administration, and the entire nation, which makes cooperation between India and Russia particularly meaningful.
He highlighted Modi’s emphasis on indigenous production, noting that the “Make in India” initiative has practical value for bilateral projects. Putin said Modi often brings new ideas to their meetings and frequently proposes fresh areas for collaboration.
As he reflected on Modi’s leadership, Putin remarked that the prime minister’s dedication to India is unmistakable and that the country is fortunate to have him at the helm. He also recalled the deep historical friendship between the two nations, which has continued for more than seventy years.
Putin commented on India’s progress since independence, saying that in just seventy-seven years the country has evolved rapidly and achieved a remarkable level of development in what is, historically speaking, a brief timespan. He noted that as global power dynamics shift, cooperation among major nations becomes increasingly important.
He was also asked about the informal car ride he shared with Modi during the SCO Summit in China earlier this year. Putin explained that the moment was spontaneous, simply a friendly gesture between two leaders who have developed an easy rapport. They talked freely during the ride and continued their conversation until they reached the venue.
This visit marks Putin’s return to India after four years. He was welcomed with traditional cultural performances at the airport before departing with Prime Minister Modi in the same car. The annual summit between India and Russia is scheduled for December 5.
