New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Bishkek. In this meeting, PM Modi made India's stand clear on the Ukraine conflict and said that every day of war pushes humanity back. He stressed that there is a need to move from a never-ending war to ending the war.
Modi brought the message of peace
This bilateral meeting, which lasted for about 30 minutes, started with PM Modi going to Putin and shaking hands and hugging him. After the meeting, Modi shared the video of the conversation on X and wrote, "It is always a pleasure to meet President Putin."
Had extensive discussions with President Putin. Discussed the full range of the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. It is gladdening to see significant progress across various sectors in recent years.
Focus areas for the India-Russia friendship remain… pic.twitter.com/tclMVJ72KS
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 31, 2026
PM Modi said, "Excellency, my friend, it is a pleasure to meet you." He said that Putin's last visit to India was very successful and memorable, which took the economic relations between the two countries to a new level. Modi said that officials of both the countries are busy in implementing the decisions of the Delhi meeting.
Modi said India will continue to support peace and he has brought the message of peace from the land of Mahatma Gandhi and Gautam Buddha. Both countries can move forward keeping in mind their national interests.
Focus on trade, energy and defense
Bilateral talks focused on key aspects of India-Russia relations, including trade and investment, energy and defence. Putin said that Russia-India relations are strengthening because of PM Modi's personal attention. Tourist traffic between the two countries is expected to increase by 16 percent in 2025.
The meeting came a week before Putin's visit to India for the annual BRICS summit. PM Modi said Indians are eagerly waiting for Putin's visit and his presence will further strengthen relations between Moscow and New Delhi. Officials said traditional areas like defence, energy, trade and investment were discussed.
Car diplomacy seen again
Once again car diplomacy was seen. It started between PM Modi and Putin during the SCO Summit in Tianjin, China last year. Even when Putin came to India a few months later, this trend continued. Now in Bishkek also both the leaders traveled together by car to watch the World Nomad Games.