Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval at the Kremlin on Thursday, Russia's state-run RIA news agency reported, citing the Kremlin press service.

Putin’s visit is significant given several ongoing global developments. While India has moved closer to the United States in recent years through initiatives like the Quad, New Delhi maintains that its relationship with Moscow remains steady and time-tested.

NSA Ajit Doval's Moscow visit indicates India and Russia are nearing finalization of President Putin's India visit for the annual summit. Despite conflicting reports about the timing, discussions covered energy and defense cooperation.