PM Narendra Modi's visit to Russia: Day 1 | IN PICS

Image Source : Reuters

Prime Minister Modi was greeted with a ceremonial welcome and a guard of honour as he arrived in Moscow to kick-start his first visit to Russia in nearly five years. Image Source : PTI

He was received by the First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, Denis Manturov, who later also accompanied PM Modi to the hotel from the airport in the same car. Image Source : PTI

The Prime Minister also interacted with the Indian diaspora in Russia upon his arrival amid chants of "Modi-Modi" and "Vande Mataram". Image Source : PTI

PM Modi was extended a warm welcome by Russian President Vladimir Putin, beginning with a bear hug. Putin called PM Modi a "dear friend" and said he was "very happy" to see him. Image Source : Reuters

The two leaders held unofficial talks over tea, berries and sweets as Putin congratulated the Indian leader for his re-election and praised his work for the country's progress. Image Source : Reuters

Putin highlighted PM Modi's energetic leadership, innovative ideas, and ability to deliver results beneficial to India and its people. He also acknowledged India's significant economic growth, ranking it third globally by economic volume. Image Source : Reuters

In a stellar display of bonhomie, Russian President Vladimir Putin drove PM Modi himself on an electric vehicle for a tour of his official residence in Novo-Ogaryovo. Image Source : Reuters

The two leaders later visited the residence's stable and watched a show with performing horses. Image Source : Reuters

Prime Minister Modi and Russian President Putin were seen enjoying themselves on the former's first day of arrival with the horse show. Image Source : Reuters

The two leaders will hold formal 'restricted-level' talks and delegation-level talks on Tuesday. Image Source : Reuters

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