Modi, Putin Reaffirm Strategic Partnership at SCO Summit, Discuss Ukraine Crisis

I Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin met on Monday on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China, where they pledged to deepen bilateral ties and addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The two leaders exchanged a warm handshake and hug before their closed-door talks. Modi later described the encounter as “always a delight” in a post shared on his official X handle.

During the meeting, Modi underscored the importance of a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine crisis, voicing support for recent initiatives aimed at ending hostilities. Putin, on his part, reiterated his stance that the West was responsible for provoking the conflict.

“Had an excellent meeting with President Putin on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Tianjin,” Modi posted. “Discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in all sectors, including trade, fertilisers, space, security and culture. We exchanged views on regional and global developments, including the peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine. Our Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership remains a vital pillar of regional and global stability.”

The meeting highlighted the continued strength of India–Russia relations, particularly in the areas of trade, energy, defence, and cultural exchange, even as global attention remains focused on the war in Ukraine.

Source: X | @narendramodi