Modi and Putin's 'Car Diplomacy' Strengthens India-Russia Ties

Sep 11, 2026

70 min

Sep 11, 2026 13:32

Modi-Putin ‘car diplomacy’: Four shared rides in a year

## A Unique Diplomatic Gesture

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have developed a unique diplomatic tradition by sharing car rides during their meetings. This practice, which began in September 2025, has become a symbol of their growing camaraderie and the strengthening ties between India and Russia.

## Four Shared Rides

The latest instance occurred on September 11, 2026, following bilateral talks in New Delhi. Modi and Putin traveled together to the INNOPROM industrial exhibition, marking their fourth shared ride in a year. Previous rides took place in Tianjin, New Delhi, and Bishkek, each offering an opportunity for private discussions away from formal settings.

## Conversations on the Move

Their first shared journey was in Tianjin during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. Putin invited Modi to join him in his Aurus limousine, allowing them to continue their conversation en route to a bilateral meeting. This gesture was repeated in December 2025 when Modi welcomed Putin at New Delhi's airport, and they traveled together in a Toyota Fortuner.

## Strengthening Bilateral Relations

The shared rides are not just symbolic; they reflect the deepening relationship between the two nations. During their recent meeting, discussions included expanding industrial cooperation and increasing bilateral trade, with a target of $100 billion by 2030. Modi also gifted Putin a Russian translation of the Thirukkural, highlighting cultural exchange as a means to strengthen ties.

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