Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed their strong ties at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, just days after the United States imposed new tariffs on Indian goods over its Russian oil imports. The meeting highlighted New Delhi’s balancing act between Moscow and Washington as global tensions intensify.
Warm Exchange Between Modi and Putin
Modi, Putin get cosy at SCO summit with a public display of warmth that underscored trust between the two nations. The two leaders greeted each other with smiles and a firm handshake before joining Chinese President Xi Jinping. Modi later posted a picture of himself alongside Putin inside the Kremlin chief’s Aurus limousine.
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“Even in the most difficult situations, India and Russia have always walked shoulder to shoulder,” Modi said during the summit. He stressed that the partnership extends beyond bilateral gains, calling it essential for “global peace, stability and prosperity.”
Putin responded warmly, addressing Modi as “dear friend” and stressing that decades of trust formed the foundation of future cooperation. The Russian leader reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with India on security, energy, and technology partnerships.
India Pushes for Ukraine Peace
Alongside reaffirming ties, Modi also touched on the ongoing Ukraine war. He urged efforts to find a resolution that could “end the conflict as soon as possible and establish permanent peace.” Analysts noted that Modi’s remarks reflected India’s strategy of maintaining neutrality while still calling for stability in Europe.
India has so far avoided joining Western sanctions on Moscow, continuing to purchase discounted Russian crude oil to secure its energy needs. The imports have drawn sharp criticism from Washington and European capitals, even as New Delhi insists that its decisions are guided by national interest.
US Tariffs Add Pressure on India
The summit came just days after the United States announced higher tariffs on Indian exports. Washington raised duties on products including textiles, jewellery, and consumer goods, pushing some levies as high as 50 percent. Officials linked the decision partly to India’s increased reliance on Russian crude.
Economists warn the move could shave up to 0.8 percentage points off India’s GDP growth if sustained for a year. Labour-intensive sectors are expected to face the brunt, with potential job losses adding pressure on an already strained economy.
Despite the sanctions and tariffs, Indian officials show no sign of curbing Russian oil imports. Energy security remains a top priority, with discounted crude helping India manage its import bill and inflation.
Balancing Act in a Divided World
The optics of Modi and Putin standing beside Xi Jinping highlighted India’s delicate foreign policy. While strengthening ties with Russia and China through forums like SCO, New Delhi also continues to deepen defence and technology cooperation with the United States and its Quad partners.
For India, the challenge lies in maintaining its independent stance without alienating either side. As Modi and Putin get cosy at SCO summit, the message was clear: India will continue engaging with Moscow despite US pressure, signalling a pragmatic approach to safeguard its strategic and economic interests.
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