India and Russia would make a joint proclamation against terrorism and finalise agreements to take their cooperation in various fields to a new level during the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin beginning on Tuesday.

Though no big defence deals, including that of aircraft carrier Admiral Gorshkov for the Indian Navy, are going to be signed during this visit, it is considered significant by the Indian establishment.

"Russia is more understanding of our situation regarding terrorism than ever in the past. It is also supportive of our strategic and security concerns," a senior Indian diplomat summed up.

Putin's recent statements regarding Pakistan, including his concern that Pakistan's nuclear arsenals could fall into the hands of terrorists, have come as a morale booster for the Indian establishment that has spread out the red carpet for Putin.

Putin arrives in New Delhi at 1900 IST from Beijing. An hour later, he would be calling on Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at his residence, and later the two will have a private dinner.

During Putin's visit, India and Russia would discuss various ways to improve their cooperation in defence, technology, science and in fighting terrorism. Besides, the two countries are also struggling to find their old strategic relation that suffered in the wake of the collapse of Soviet Union and rise of US interests in Asia.

The immediate present threat of Islamic terrorism is of equal concern to both Russia and India, say senior diplomats. "Russia and India are among the worst sufferers of terrorism today. We understand each other and appreciate each other's efforts on this issue," the diplomat said.

The mutual appreciation would be reflected in the Delhi Declaration that Vajpayee and Putin wound sign on Wednesday. "It would have specific references to cooperation in combating terrorism," diplomat said.

Overriding American military presence in Asia post September 9/11 is another issue of deep concern to Russia, China and India. Several Indian experts have been warning the government that the recent US military deployments have in them seeds of a future conflict over the rich oil fields of the region.

On Wednesday morning, Putin would be extended a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan forecourt. Later, he would visit Rajghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi.

Later, following delegation-level talks, the prime minister and the Russian president would address the media at Hyderabad House.

On Wednesday, Putin would also address a gathering of businessmen at the Maurya Sheraton Hotel.

The President is to host a state banquet for his Russian counterpart at the Rashtrapati Bhawan on Wednesday evening.

Deputy Prime Minister Lal Kishenchand Advani, Minister for External Affairs Yashwant Sinha, Defence Minister George Fernandes and opposition leader Sonia Gandhi are expected to call on Putin.

Putin is expected to leave for Moscow on Thursday morning.