New Delhi, December 5: Russian President Vladimir Putin was accorded a formal ceremonial reception at India’s Presidential residence, Rashtrapati Bhavan, early Friday morning as part of his two-day state visit to the country. The arrival ceremony featured a full tri-services Guard of Honour, the playing of both national anthems, and an inspection of the guard by the visiting dignitary.
The welcoming delegation included Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who received President Putin at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Senior ministers, the Chief of Defence Staff and other dignitaries were also present underscoring the high-protocol nature of the visit.
Following the ceremonial reception, President Putin is scheduled to pay homage at Rajghat the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi and later engage in high-level bilateral talks with Indian leadership under the framework of the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit.
The state-visit, which comes four years after Putin’s last trip to India, is widely seen as a reaffirmation of long-standing strategic ties between the two nations. Observers note that the warm protocol from handshake and guard salute to ceremonial honours reflects New Delhi’s willingness to maintain and strengthen the bilateral relationship despite shifting global dynamics.
Also Read | PM Modi Welcomes President Putin as Russian Leader Arrives in Delhi for Two-Day Summit
