Vladimir Putin says India-Russia ties are a "special and privileged partnership" at Bishkek summit

At a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin for talks covering trade, energy, defence, and the war in Ukraine. Modi reiterated India’s longstanding call for dialogue and peaceful resolution, saying conflict sets humanity backward. Putin, in turn, described India-Russia relations as a special and privileged partnership, noting bilateral trade rose 2.6% in the first half of 2026. He also cited growing student exchanges and tourism. The meeting preceded Putin’s expected visit to India for the BRICS summit, underscoring continued cooperation between the two nations despite Western pressure over Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. India has consistently urged an end to hostilities without condemning Russia.