India-Russia Relations: Key Highlights
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Indian Prime Minister acknowledged Russian President's role in advancing the India-Russia relationship over the past 25 years. The collaboration spans energy and trade, with a forward-looking agenda reaching into 2030.
Historical Context
- The India-Russia relationship is likened to a "guiding star" or dhruva tara, symbolizing its consistency and significance over the decades despite global challenges.
- Foreign Secretary emphasized the "sustainability and certainty" of this bilateral relationship.
Global Attention and Challenges
- Russian President's visit is notable due to U.S. President's tariffs on India for purchasing Russian energy, viewed as leverage in the Ukraine conflict.
- India has consistently advocated for peace in the Ukraine conflict, with PM reiterating support for peaceful resolution efforts.
Energy and Trade Partnerships
- Energy security is a crucial pillar of the partnership, with ongoing cooperation in civil nuclear energy, exemplified by the Kudankulam power plant.
- The Chennai-Vladivostok transport corridor is a key joint project.
- India-Russia trade reached $64 billion in 2024-25, with a target of $100 billion by 2030. Discussions for a Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union are underway.
Economic and Cultural Cooperation
- A strategic cooperation program is planned till 2030, focusing on economic collaboration and people-to-people contacts.
- To boost tourism, India will offer 30-day e-tourist visas and group tourist visas to Russian nationals on a reciprocal basis.
- Sixteen MoUs were signed, covering areas like semi-skilled worker mobility, fertilizers, media, and academic collaboration.
Media Collaboration
Russian President attended the launch of the Indian edition of Russia Today, marking an expansion of media collaboration between the two countries.
