New Delhi, August 29, 2023 – Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in a productive phone call with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, conveying his regretful inability to attend the upcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi. During the conversation, the two leaders discussed a range of bilateral cooperation matters and shared perspectives on mutual regional and global concerns, including insights from the recent BRICS Summit in Johannesburg.
In his communication, President Putin expressed his regrets about not being able to personally attend the G20 Summit scheduled for September 9-10, 2023. Instead, he confirmed that Russia will be represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Prime Minister Modi responded with understanding and appreciation for Russia’s continued support of India’s initiatives as the host of the G20 Presidency.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing communication and collaboration. The telephone conversation took place in light of recent reports indicating President Putin’s decision not to personally participate in the G20 summit due to a “busy schedule” and a continued focus on Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine.
The G20 summit, anticipated to be one of India’s largest gatherings of world leaders, is set to take place in New Delhi on September 9 and 10. India assumed the G20 Presidency from Indonesia on December 1, 2022.
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed the president’s absence, stating that Putin’s participation format will be determined in due course. President Putin’s remote participation in this week’s BRICS summit in Johannesburg was noted, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov representing him at the event.
President Putin’s decision aligns with his prior non-participation in global summits due to international considerations. In light of the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in March, his absence from the G20 Summit in Bali last year and the recent BRICS summit in Johannesburg underscores his cautious approach.
As the G20 Summit approaches, global leaders will convene in New Delhi to address critical global issues and collaboratively chart a path forward.