Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded their 23rd Annual Summit in New Delhi on Friday by signing a sweeping “Vision 2030” document and announcing a major boost to tourism through a new visa policy. The joint address, held against a backdrop of complex global geopolitics, strongly reaffirmed the “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership” between the two nations, focusing heavily on economic integration, defense stability, and people-to-people connections.
In a move set to significantly encourage travel and tourism, Prime Minister Modi announced the upcoming launch of a free, 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day Group Tourist Visa for Russian citizens. The announcement was a key takeaway from the mobility discussions aimed at simplifying travel. “I am happy that we will soon launch E-tourist visa and group tourist visa services for Russian citizens,” PM Modi stated during the press briefing. “This will be processed within 30 days and will be free of cost.” This initiative is expected to facilitate a sharp increase in Russian tourist arrivals in India, further cementing cultural ties.
The core of the summit centered on economic resilience and expansion. The “Vision 2030” agreement charts a roadmap for strategic economic cooperation, with both leaders committing to achieving a bilateral trade target of $100 billion. President Putin highlighted the success of efforts to shield trade from international pressure, noting that approximately 96% of commercial payments between India and Russia are now being settled in national currencies, the Rupee and the Ruble.
Furthermore, both leaders pushed for the “early conclusion” of a Free Trade Agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union, and pledged to accelerate work on key connectivity projects like the International North-South Transport Corridor.
On strategic matters, the two leaders confirmed continued robust defense and energy cooperation. President Putin assured India of “uninterrupted shipments of fuel for the growing Indian economy,” reaffirming Russia’s role as a reliable energy supplier. Defence consultations included progress on the long-term delivery of S-400 air defence systems and discussions on future co-production.
Both nations also reiterated their shared commitment to global security, with PM Modi stressing the need for collective action against extremism. “Whether it is the terror attack in Pahalgam or the cowardly attack on Crocus City Hall, all such acts have the same roots,” Modi said. “India believes that terrorism is a direct assault on the values of humanity, and global unity against it is our greatest strength.”
The summit highlighted New Delhi’s policy of strategic autonomy, balancing ties with Moscow while navigating current global conflicts.
Addressing the geopolitical tensions, PM Modi called for a return to diplomacy and dialogue, stating, “India is on the side of peace.” The exchange of agreements and the commitment to the 2030 roadmap demonstrate a firm resolve to deepen a relationship PM Modi described as one that has “remained steadfast like a pole star.”
