New Delhi, 09 July 2024- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a significant diplomatic tour, beginning with a visit to Russia after a five-year gap. He is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, accompanied by a planned dinner on Monday night. Upon arrival at Moscow airport, Modi received a warm welcome from both Russian officials and the Indian community residing there.

Modi's visit to Russia coincides with the 22nd India-Russia Annual Conference, as announced before his departure from Delhi. Highlighting the enduring partnership between the two nations over the past decade, Modi emphasized collaborations spanning trade, security, energy, investment, health, education, tourism, and culture. He anticipates discussions with Putin on various regional and international issues during his stay.

Following his engagements in Russia, Modi will undertake a historic visit to Austria, marking the first such visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 41 years. In Austria, he is scheduled to meet President Alexander van der Bellen and Chancellor Karl Nehmer, reinforcing bilateral relations anchored in mutual support for democracy and pluralism.

The visit to Austria holds symbolic importance, reflecting Modi's assertion of Austria as a reliable partner in his pre-visit statement. He expressed enthusiasm about meeting Austrian leaders and fostering deeper ties between the two nations.

In the realm of bilateral engagements, an annual meeting protocol between India and Russia, established in 2000, was disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, leading to the suspension of meetings in 2020 and 2021. Putin's visit to India in 2021 marked the last meeting between the heads of state. Modi and Putin are set to resume this tradition with their upcoming meeting in 2024, underscoring the continued strategic partnership between India and Russia.

The diplomatic itinerary underscores India's proactive engagement in strengthening ties with key global partners amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.