External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has described the relationship between India and Russia as one of the "steadiest" major relationships in the world since World War II. This assessment came during his recent visit to Moscow, where he met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to discuss bilateral relations and prepare for the annual summit later this year.
During a joint press briefing, Jaishankar highlighted the geopolitical convergence, leadership contacts, and popular sentiments as key drivers of the India-Russia partnership. He noted that these factors have contributed to the enduring strength and stability of the relationship. Lavrov echoed this sentiment, characterizing the ties as a "special strategic partnership" shaped by the leaders of both countries.
Both ministers reaffirmed their shared ambition to expand bilateral trade in a balanced and sustainable manner, including increasing India's exports to Russia. Jaishankar emphasized that enhancing India's exports in sectors like agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and textiles would help correct the trade imbalance between the two countries. He also called for swiftly addressing non-tariff barriers and regulatory impediments to facilitate trade.
Discussions also covered connectivity initiatives such as the International North-South Transport Corridor, the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor, and cooperation in the Northern Sea Route. Jaishankar noted that these corridors promise to deepen economic linkages, reduce transit times, and expand trade access across Eurasia and beyond.
Defense and military-technical cooperation remains a robust pillar of the India-Russia partnership. Russia has expressed its support for India's "Make in India" goals, including joint production and technology transfer in the defense sector.
Jaishankar also raised the issue of Indians serving in the Russian army and expressed hope that the Russian side would expeditiously resolve these matters. In addition, he emphasized the need to fast-track the opening of two new Indian consulates in Kazan and Yekaterinburg.
On global and multilateral cooperation, both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to the reform of global governance. They underlined the imperative to expand and energize the UN Security Council to reflect contemporary realities. Discussions also touched on developments in Ukraine, West Asia, and Afghanistan, with India emphasizing dialogue and diplomacy as essential to resolving differences.
Amidst the ongoing discussions, Jaishankar clarified India's position on its energy purchases from Russia. Responding to media queries, he stressed that India is neither the biggest purchaser of Russian oil nor the biggest purchaser of Russian LNG. He also pointed out that India's oil purchases from the United States are increasing.
Furthermore, Jaishankar announced that the terms of reference for the India-Eurasian Economic Union FTA have been signed, expressing hope that negotiations would commence soon.
The External Affairs Minister's visit to Moscow also included a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which they discussed bilateral ties. Discussions with Foreign Minister Lavrov focused on strengthening cooperation in various sectors and preparing for the annual summit. The meeting's agenda included facilitating the emergence of transport, logistics, banking, and financial links and increasing the use of national currencies in mutual settlements. Expansion of cooperation in transport, energy, agriculture, science, and technology was also on the agenda.
