• By Kamal Kumar
  • Tue, 09 Jul 2024 12:24 AM (IST)
  • Source:JND

Modi In Russia:  Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed at the Moscow airport on Monday as part of his two-day state visit to Russia. On his arrival, PM Modi was welcomed in the country by Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Denis Manturov as he stepped off on a red carpet from the Air India-One. The day began with a ceremonial welcome accorded to the Indian PM by the Russian Federation. The Prime Minister was presented with a 'Guard of Honour' by the soldiers of Russian forces and various artists performed cultural programmes at the airport.

In a first, the Russian Deputy PM Manturov also accompanied Prime Minister Modi to his hotel in Moscow, where the PM was welcomed by a huge crowd of members of the Indian diaspora. Excited children and thrilled elders, both alike were seen making their way to interact with the Prime Minister at The Carlton Hotel, the PM's stay in the Russian capital.

While the Prime Minister interacted with the enthusiastic Indian diaspora members amid a chant of "Modi-Modi", he also signed a few autographs on requests of children. Following his brief stay at the hotel, Prime Minister Modi left for, where he met Russian President Vladimir Putin.

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Modi-Putin Bonhomie

As PM Modi arrived at the Novo-Ogaryovo Presidential residence, he was warmly welcomed by President Putin. Both leaders shared a hug and strong handshakes, symbolising the strong ties between the two countries. In a special gesture, President Putin also hosted a private dinner event at Novo-Ogaryovo for Prime Minister Modi.

MEA Says 'Special Gesture' 

While sharing his thoughts with ANI, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal termed the dinner event, a 'special gesture' by the Russian President.

"PM Narendra Modi has arrived in Moscow for the 22nd Annual Summit. At the airport arrival, he was received by First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. He was also given a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour. The First Deputy PM accompanied him to the hotel...In the evening, he will be hosted by President Putin in a private meeting for a private dinner. This is a special gesture. Tomorrow, PM has a packed schedule. He will be attending the 22nd Annual Summit. He will have restricted and delegation-level talks, and he will address the Indian community members," he said.

Prime Minister will take part in the 22nd India-Russia summit on Tuesday in Moscow. At the end of his trip, the PM will embark on a visit to Austria.