8 Historic Visits by Indian PMs to Russia

Here's an overview of some historic visits of Indian Prime Ministers to Russia, highlighting key events and agreements that shaped Indo-Russian relations. 

Nehru's visit in 1955 was the first by an Indian PM to the Soviet Union. The visit established the foundation of Indo-Soviet friendship and strengthened bilateral ties and promoted economic cooperation.

Indira Gandhi visited the USSR in 1971. This visit took place during the Bangladesh Liberation War. Both nations signed the Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and Cooperation, a significant strategic and diplomatic milestone.

Rao visited Russia in 1994, the post-Soviet Union era. His visit marked a new phase in Indo-Russian relations after the USSR's dissolution. Both nations promoted trade and economic reforms, and cooperation in defence.

Vajpayee visited Russia in 2001 and his visit strengthened strategic partnership post the Cold War. Both nations signed agreements on energy cooperation, defence, and space technology.

Manmohan Singh visited Russia multiple times, notably in 2005 for enhanced economic, nuclear, and defence ties. Both parties signed agreements on nuclear energy cooperation and defence technology.

Modi visited Russia in 2015 and focused on broadening strategic partnership. Several agreements on defence, nuclear energy, and economic cooperation were signed between the two nations.

Another significant visit by Modi in 2017 marked the 70 years of diplomatic relations. The visit stressed upon improving connectivity, trade, and investment.

Modi visited Russia in 2019 for the Eastern Economic Forum and became the first Indian PM to attend the forum, highlighting India's interest in the Russian Far East.