Key Update: Modi and Putin Share a Ride to Their Bilateral Meeting
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin made headlines by traveling together in the same car from the SCO summit venue to their bilateral meeting location—an unusual gesture that spotlighted their close diplomatic rapport.
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Modi confirmed on X (formerly Twitter), “After the proceedings at the SCO Summit venue, President Putin and I travelled together to the venue of our bilateral meeting. Conversations with him are always insightful.” The Economic TimesThe Times of India
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According to NDTV (via PTI), Putin waited around 10 minutes for Modi before they departed together. Their conversation continued during the ride and extended for around 45 minutes inside the car even after reaching the venue. Their formal bilateral meeting then lasted over an hour. www.ndtv.commint
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Reports from Times of India and The Tribune echo this, stating the ride was offered by Putin and the tete-à-tete lasted close to an hour, possibly involving “discussions not for the ears of others.” The Times of IndiaThe Tribune
What It Signifies
This shared ride wasn’t just transportation—it was a diplomatic statement:
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Strategic symbolism: In light of U.S. tariffs (up to 50%) targeting India over its oil imports from Russia, this act served as a nuanced response and reaffirmation of India–Russia ties. AP Newswww.ndtv.comIndia Today
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Personal camaraderie: The extended private conversation and subsequent bilateral meeting underscored the “special and privileged” strategic partnership between the two nations. AP Newsmint
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Visual diplomacy: The images and narratives highlighted growing alignment among India, Russia, and China amidst shifting global geopolitics.
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