Modi-Putin Summit: India-Russia Reaffirm Strong Ties at SCO Meeting

September 1, 2025

Tianjin, China: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the enduring partnership between India and Russia during a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China, on Monday. The leaders, addressing each other warmly, underscored their nations’ “special and privileged strategic partnership” as a cornerstone for global peace and stability.

The meeting saw Putin personally escorting Modi in his armoured Aurus limousine, a gesture highlighting their close ties. Modi later shared a photo of the ride on X, calling the meeting “excellent” and noting discussions on cooperation in trade, fertilizers, space, security, and culture. Putin, addressing Modi as “dear friend,” praised the decades-long “friendly and trusting” relationship between the two nations, laying the foundation for future collaboration.

Modi reiterated India’s commitment to supporting Russia, stating, “Even in the most difficult situations, India and Russia have always walked shoulder to shoulder.” He also expressed hope for a swift resolution to the Ukraine conflict, following his recent conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, where he reaffirmed India’s support for a peaceful settlement.

The meeting occurred amid India and China remaining the largest buyers of Russian crude oil, despite additional tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump. There are no indications that either nation plans to halt these purchases, underscoring Russia’s importance as the world’s second-largest oil exporter.

During the SCO summit, Modi was seen holding Putin’s hand as they approached Chinese President Xi Jinping, with all three leaders engaging in a cordial exchange. The summit highlighted the strong diplomatic ties among the nations, with India and Russia reinforcing their strategic partnership as a vital pillar for regional and global stability.