Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Russia today for talks with President Vladimir Putin. In honor of his visit, Moscow’s Ostankino Tower, the tallest free-standing structure in Europe, was lit up in the colors of the Indian flag. This is Modi’s first trip to Russia since the beginning of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.
The Ostankino TV Tower, standing at 1,771 feet (540 meters), is the world’s fourth tallest structure and Europe’s highest. It was constructed in 1967 by the notable Soviet engineer, Nikolai Nikitin.
During his two-day visit, Prime Minister Modi aims to strengthen bilateral ties in key sectors such as energy, trade, and defence. Upon his arrival at Vnukovo-II airport, he was welcomed by Russia’s First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. Manturov, who previously welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping, accompanied PM Modi to his hotel.
“Landed in Moscow. Looking forward to further deepening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between our nations, especially in futuristic areas of cooperation. Stronger ties between our nations will greatly benefit our people,” PM Modi posted on X.
This visit is Modi’s first trip to Russia since 2019 and his first since the Ukraine conflict began in February 2022.
At the airport, the Indian Prime Minister received a ceremonial guard of honor and a warm welcome from members of the Indian community and Russian artists outside The Carlton Hotel in Moscow.
“PM is set to hold substantive discussions with President Vladimir Putin to take forward the special partnership between the two countries. He will also interact with the Indian community in Russia,” said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the External Affairs Ministry, on X.
The primary focus of PM Modi’s summit with President Putin is expected to be on enhancing bilateral cooperation in trade, defence, and energy.