During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Moscow, he and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to discuss a range of issues, including the early discharge of Indian nationals who were reportedly misled into fighting for Russia in the conflict with Ukraine.
This topic, along with discussions on regional and global interests, bilateral ties encompassing defense, investment, education, culture, and people-to-people connections, will feature prominently during their meeting on Monday and Tuesday.
The summit holds significant importance, marking Modi’s first visit to Russia in five years since his attendance at an economic conclave in Vladivostok back in 2019.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s itinerary following his visit to Russia includes traveling to Austria on July 9 and 10. This visit holds historical significance as it marks the first trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Austria in 41 years.
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra highlighted that both India and Russia are preparing various outcome documents ahead of the India-Russia Summit.
Recently, India has been addressing concerns regarding several cases where Indian nationals were deceived into going to Russia under false pretenses, only to end up participating in the conflict in Ukraine.
This issue has resulted in arrests related to human trafficking networks earlier this year.
Tragically, at least four Indian nationals have lost their lives in the conflict, with estimates suggesting that between 30 to 40 Indians could still be involved.
Efforts are underway to repatriate these individuals swiftly, with 10 already returned to India.