On his two-day visit to Russia, Narendra Modi will look to strengthen economic ties, along with strengthening existing defence sector.
Ahead of his visit to Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed confidence that his trip would deepen cooperation in the economic, energy and security spheres and substantially take forward the already strong people-to-people ties with “one of India’s most valued friend”.
In his pre-departure statement, he said trade ties between India and Russia can increase even further, to benefit not only the two nations but also the world.
“Today I will commence my visit to Russia, my first bilateral visit after we formed the Government. I am very optimistic about the outcome of this visit,” Modi said.
PM Modi’s schedule in Russia:
23rd Dec:
- PM leaves for Russia at 1 PM lands at 06:30 PM IST
- Dinner Meeting with Putin at 09:30 PM IST
24th Dec:
- Visit to EMERICOM at 11:30 AM
- Visit to Tomb of the unknown soldier for wreath laying at 04:10 PM
- Delegation level Meet with Putin 04:30 PM
- PM Meets with India Russia CEO Forum at 07:20 PM
- Modi-Putin joint statement at 8 PM
- Modi Addresses Diaspora at 08:55 PM at Expo Centre where 3000 Indians are expected to attend.
He said he will have extensive deliberations with President Vladimir Putin and have an interaction with Russian businesspersons to invite them to invest in India. He will also attend a ‘Friends of India’ programme.
“Am very optimistic about outcomes of my Russia visit. It will deepen economic and security ties with a valued friend,” Modi said.
He said history is witness to the close ties India and Russia have had over the decades.
“Russia remains one of India’s most valued friends in the world,” he said.
ALSO READ: Nod For Russian S-400 Missile System Ahead Of PM Modi’s Visit
He recalled that in 2001, when he had just assumed charge as Gujarat CM and had accompanied then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to Russia. “That was, perhaps, one of the first India-Russia annual Summits, a practice that goes on till date,” Modi said.
“My visit will deepen the cooperation between India and Russia in the economic, energy and security spheres. We also want to increase cooperation in science and technology, mining
among other sectors,” he said.
“I am certain that this visit will substantially take forward the already strong people to people ties between our nations,” the Prime Minister said.
During the visit major agreements in defence, economy and nuclear sector are expected be inked, riding high on success of last year’s summit held in New Delhi.
A big boost to Modi’s ‘Make In India’ in defence is expected as a deal on the joint-production of 200 Kamov-226T helicopters may be the highlight. India is also likely to buy five S-400 Defence Missile Systems.
A free trade agreement is also expected to be signed between the two sides.
An 18-member business delegation will take part in an interactive session in Russia during Modi’s visit to Moscow.
A 34-member strong delegation from Russia and President Vladimir Putin are expected to take part in the session.
(With PTI inputs)