- By Nidhi Giri
- Fri, 05 Dec 2025 10:45 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Last evening, the world’s attention was focused on Delhi’s Palam Airport, where a highly symbolic moment unfolded. Breaking long-standing protocol, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally arrived at the airport to receive Russian President Vladimir Putin. The warm, cordial greeting between the two leaders immediately set the tone for the visit.
After the welcome ceremony, PM Modi and President Putin left together in the same car for the Prime Minister’s residence, a gesture that highlighted the closeness of their relationship. Their friendship has been widely acknowledged over the years, but it was displayed even more vividly during this visit.
A particularly striking moment came when President Putin, who is known for rarely travelling in any vehicle other than his own, chose to ride in PM Modi’s car for the first time. This simple yet significant act showcased mutual respect shared between the two leaders. But did you know that the foundation of this friendship goes back many years?
(Photo: X/@modiarchive)
Modi-Putin Met 24 Years Ago
PM Modi and Putin first met 24 years ago. At that time, Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat and Putin was the President of Russia. This is Putin's fourth visit to India since PM Modi became Prime Minister in 2014.
In 2001, the then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee visited Moscow. During this visit, bilateral talks were held between India and Russia. This meeting is seen as a strong foundation for India-Russia relations. Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi also accompanied Atal Bihari Vajpayee during this visit.
(Photo: X/@modiarchive)
When Gujarat CM Modi Reached Moscow
At that time, PM Modi was part of the Vajpayee delegation. An archived photo of PM Modi shows his first meeting with Putin. During this period, PM Modi participated in various meetings with the Russian President. Several important agreements were signed between the two countries, including on defense, space, energy, science, and technology.
(Photo: X/@modiarchive)
Putin Visited India Four Times In Last 9 Years
Since PM Modi became Prime Minister, Putin has visited India in 2014, 2018, and 2021. However, PM Modi has never previously broken protocol to welcome Putin at the airport. This is the first time PM Modi personally went to the airport to receive his friend.
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Formal Talks With PM Modi Today
Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in India to participate in the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. Putin's two-day visit is scheduled for December 4-5. The leaders will be holding a bilateral meeting at Hyderabad House in Delhi today.