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In a unambiguous signal to Western nations, Leader Vladimir Putin informed PM Narendra Modi that Russia remains committed to guarantee “unbroken” shipments of energy resources to India. The announcement came as the two leaders met in New Delhi and asserted their partnership were “resistant to foreign coercion.”

A Signal For the Western Countries

Putin's comments, delivered Friday, appeared to be a pointed rebuke at Washington, that have sought to pressure New Delhi into curtailing its historical links with Moscow. This comes comes after previous US actions, such as the introduction of tariffs against Indian goods due to its buying of discounted Russian crude.

“Our nation is a reliable exporter of energy resources and anything required for the advancement of India’s industry,” Putin stated. “Russia is prepared to persist in guaranteeing the consistent delivery of resources for the fast-expanding Indian economy.”

Prime Minister Modi, though he did not naming energy specifically, echoed the theme by noting that “secure fuel supplies has been a strong and important pillar of the India-Russia partnership.”

Defying US Interference

In the lead-up to the meeting, via a TV appearance, Putin had criticized US interference regarding India's oil imports. Putin stated, “When Washington can claim the privilege to buy our uranium, why shouldn’t India claim the same privilege?”

Putin's arrival marked his maiden trip to India after the start of the situation in Ukraine, and Moscow and Delhi engaged in a clear effort to project that the bond between the heads of state remained intact.

An Unusual Reception

Employing an rare gesture, Modi personally greeted Putin right off the plane. Both leaders exchanged a hearty embrace akin to close allies before enjoying a one-on-one meal the night before the summit.

The Indian prime minister later described India's partnership with Russia as “a beacon” and added it was “founded on shared respect and deep trust.”

Strengthening Strategic Ties

The bilateral summit produced several significant pacts across defence and economic cooperation. A cornerstone agreement was the finalization of an strategic roadmap extending until 2030, which targets to double mutual trade to $100bn each year by the target year.

Additionally pledged to restructure their defence ties. While Russia continues to be India's biggest source of arms, this role has declined over the past decade as India works to diversify its procurement.

The official release highlighted cooperation in the co-development of sophisticated weapons platforms, although direct reference of deals for the Sukhoi Su-57 were omitted.

Overall, Russia and India restated that during the “present intricate, tense, and uncertain international environment, Russian-Indian ties remain strong to foreign influence.”