Prime Minister Narendra Modi's warm embrace with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin on Monday underscored India's continued engagement with Russia, despite global scrutiny over the conflict in Ukraine.
The meeting, captured in photos and social media posts, highlighted the enduring relationship between the two nations amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.
The Prime Minister himself underscored his sentiment, taking to X, formerly Twitter, to declare, "Always a delight to meet President Putin!" reinforcing the positive tone of the encounter.
The summit, held on August 31-September 1, brings together leaders from the SCO's ten member states, observer countries, and dialogue partners across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
The encounter took place before the formal opening of talks and followed a "family photo" session involving all the attending world leaders.
Prime Minister Modi's presence at the summit marks a significant visit to China, while President Putin's participation is particularly noteworthy given the international context.
The SCO, established in 2001, has grown to encompass a significant portion of the globe. This year's summit draws crucial global figures from the BRICS nations and prospective BRICS members, emphasizing the summit's importance in shaping discussions on global governance and economic cooperation.
Discussions are expected to address regional security, trade, and connectivity, along with the evolving role of the Global South in international affairs. The meeting between Modi and Putin adds another layer of complexity to these discussions, underscoring the strategic balancing act India navigates on the world stage.
Experts believe the interaction reaffirms India's independent foreign policy, emphasizing its commitment to multi-alignment and pursuing its national interests through engagement with diverse partners.
Despite pressure from Western nations to distance itself from Russia, India has maintained robust economic ties and continues to procure Russian energy resources.
This meeting signals that these strategic relationships are enduring, as both nations navigate the challenges of a changing world order, according to Viory Video News Agency.
