Bonhomie on display as Modi and Putin share car ride in Tianjin

Tianjin: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday travelled together in the same car on their way to the venue of their bilateral meeting after the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit proceedings in Tianjin.

The two leaders are scheduled to hold talks focusing on strengthening India-Russia relations and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Sharing the moment on X, Modi posted: “After the proceedings at the SCO Summit venue, President Putin and I travelled together to the venue of our bilateral meeting. Conversations with him are always insightful.”

Earlier in the day, images of Modi’s informal interaction with Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping drew attention online, showing the three leaders smiling and chatting on the sidelines of the summit. The photos evoked memories of a similar scene during the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia.

One widely shared picture captured Putin on the left, Modi at the center, and Xi on the right, walking together in a relaxed manner towards the traditional family photograph. Modi captioned the image: “Interactions in Tianjin continue! Exchanging perspectives with President Putin and President Xi during the SCO Summit.”

The Prime Minister also posted another image with Putin featuring a handshake and hug, writing: “Always a delight to meet President Putin!”

In another striking moment, Modi and Putin were seen walking past Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif while engaged in conversation. Sharif appeared isolated, standing with a stern expression as the two leaders walked by during the SCO family photo session.