PM Modi Gifts Gita, Putin Hails Leadership – Inside The India-Russia Historic Talks | World News

New Delhi: Underlining the cultural and spiritual dimensions that complement the strong strategic ties between the two countries, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented the Russian edition of the Bhagavad Gita to President Vladimir Putin during the Russian leader’s two-day visit to India.

Sharing a photo of shopping at X, PM Modi called the holy book a source of inspiration for millions of people around the world. “I presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita inspire millions around the world,” he wrote.

He presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The Gita’s teachings inspire millions of people around the world.@KremlinRussia_E pic.twitter.com/D2zczJXkU2—Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2025

The presentation followed a warm welcome at Palam Airport, where Prime Minister Modi welcomed President Putin with traditional honours. The leaders then drove from the airport to the Prime Minister’s residence on Lok Kalyan Marg; it was a gesture that reflected both strategic partnership and personal harmony.

President Putin will stay in New Delhi until December 5 in his first visit to India in four years. During this visit, he will attend the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, which is expected to strengthen cooperation in the fields of defence, trade, science, technology and humanitarian initiatives.

Experts drew attention to the importance of this visit. Former diplomat Arun Singh highlighted the enduring historical and strategic nature of the India-Russia partnership. “This is an important visit. I had the opportunity to work in Moscow twice, once during the Soviet Union period and once after its dissolution in the 1990s. The partnership has a historical depth,” he said.

He underlined the trust and confidence that underpin bilateral relations. “India remembers Russia as a key partner who provided political support at crucial moments, including at the UN Security Council. Defense cooperation is also critical. For example, during Operation Sindoor, weapons such as the S-400 and the BrahMos missile provided in partnership with Russia performed exceptionally well.”

Lydia Kulik, head of India studies at Moscow Business School, described the visit as both symbolic and forward-looking.

“This visit comes after Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Russia, which set new agendas for 2024. India and Russia are now looking positively towards their future in the fields of trade, economy and defense. Priority areas include opening the Russian market to Indian exporters and enhancing military cooperation, as well as frank discussions on global developments,” he said.

Putin Praises Prime Minister Modi’s Leadership

Ahead of his trip, President Putin spoke to India Today and praised Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. He emphasized the determination of the Prime Minister of India.

“Prime Minister Modi is not someone who gives in easily to pressure. Indian people can certainly be proud of their leader. His stand is unwavering and clear, without being confrontational. Our aim is not to provoke conflict; rather, we aim to protect our legal rights. India is doing the same,” he said.

I invited my friend President Putin to 7, Lok Kalyan Marg.@KremlinRussia_E pic.twitter.com/2L7AZ1WIph—Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2025

Describing their relationship as both professional and personal, Putin said, “Our collaborative efforts carry significant weight because they transcend our mutual ties. Prime Minister Modi sets very challenging tasks for the country, first for himself, then for the administration and finally for the nation.”

Putin also praised Prime Minister Modi’s Make in India initiative and said it has practical significance for bilateral relations. “When we meet, he always says, ‘Let’s do this, let’s do that, look at this area, let’s look at this.’ I can list them all. Therefore, in practice, we have many areas of cooperation,” he said.

The Russian President described the long-standing India-Russia relationship, known as dostee/druzhba, as a stable, thriving and vital relationship in a rapidly changing world.

“The global structure is changing, new centers of power are emerging. It is vital to ensure stability among major countries as it forms the basis of progress in bilateral and international relations,” he said.

Reflecting personal friendship, Putin shared an anecdote from an informal car ride with Prime Minister Modi during the SCO Summit. “We went out and my car was waiting. ‘Do you want to come too?’ I asked. That’s all, it’s a gesture of human solidarity, comradeship and friendship. “On the way, we discussed very important issues like old friends.”

He also highlighted India’s global rise, saying, “Both India and the world recognize that India cannot continue to be treated as it was 77 years ago. India is a major global player, not a British colony, and everyone must accept this reality.”

India-Russia Cooperation is Not Aimed at Any Nation

Answering questions about bilateral cooperation and possible reactions of the USA, Putin emphasized that India-Russia cooperation does not target any third country, including the USA.

“Neither I nor Prime Minister Modi have ever come close to collaborating to work against someone despite some external pressure. We focus on protecting our respective interests. We do not harm others in our dealings and I believe leaders of other countries should appreciate this,” he said.

I am delighted to welcome my friend President Putin to India. I look forward to our interactions tonight and tomorrow. India-Russia friendship is time-tested and brings great benefits to our people.@KremlinRussia_E pic.twitter.com/L7IORzRfV9—Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2025

He also raised concerns over India’s energy imports from Russia. “As for India’s purchase of energy resources, the US continues to buy nuclear fuel from us for its own reactors. If the US has the right to buy our fuel, why shouldn’t India have the same privilege? This question deserves a thorough examination and we are ready to discuss it,” he said.

Ambitious Plans for Technology and Energy

Drawing attention to the scope of India-Russia cooperation, Putin said that the partnership covers many important areas, including technology, energy, aviation and shipbuilding. He pointed to Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) as a symbol of successful cooperation in nuclear energy.

“We have prepared an ambitious plan for our cooperation in important areas. Artificial intelligence is one of the areas that will define the future, offering new challenges and enormous opportunities. Russia has the capacity to build small nuclear power plants, both floating and land-based, suitable for remote locations,” he said.

The participation of the two leaders underscores a multidimensional partnership combining cultural, technological and strategic cooperation and signals a continued commitment to strengthening ties in the evolving global environment.