New Delhi: The Russian House in New Delhi hosted a grand photo exhibition celebrating the 25th anniversary of Russia’s Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation and state arms exporter Rosoboronexport, ahead of President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India on Thursday.

The exhibition showcased images of Putin with Indian Prime Ministers over the last 25 years, including Narendra Modi, emphasising the deep defence cooperation between Russia and India. It also displayed models of key defence arsenals like India’s Brahmos missiles, Russia’s S-400 missile system, and Su-57E fifth-generation stealth fighter jets.

Established by a presidential decree on December 1, 2000, the Committee of the Russian Federation for Military-Technical Cooperation evolved into the Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation in 2004. Rosobornexport, responsible for the export and import of weapons and military technology, was also created in 2000.

Meanwhile, people in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, held a welcome march and performed Aarti to mark the significance of Putin's visit. Vishal Bharat Sansthan Chairman Rajeev Srivastav said the friendship between India and Russia brings peace and stability, recalling Russia's steadfast support for India during Operation Sindoor and highlighting the long-term cultural ties.

During Putin's December 4-5 visit, India and Russia are expected to sign an economic cooperation programme to develop strategic areas through 2030. Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov described the visit as an opportunity to discuss broad bilateral ties and adopt numerous agreement documents, including the strategic development programme.

The visit, occurring after four years, was extended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.

With inputs from ANI