Overview of India-Russia Bilateral Talks

The recent meeting between Indian Prime Minister and Russian President marked a significant deepening of ties between India and Russia. Key outcomes of the bilateral talks included the signing of a labour mobility pact, agreements on economic cooperation until 2030, and a 30-day free tourist visa for Russian nationals. Both countries also pledged to work towards concluding a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union.

Key Agreements and Areas of Cooperation

• Labour Mobility Pact: This agreement aims to enhance manpower mobility, fostering new opportunities through vocational education, skilling, and training. 
• Economic Cooperation:
  • A programme for economic cooperation until 2030 was agreed upon to diversify and balance trade, with a goal of reaching a trade volume of USD 100 billion.
  • The use of national currencies in bilateral trade stands at 96%.
• Defence and Nuclear Energy:
  • Discussions focused on joint manufacturing in India under the "Make-in-India" program for Russian-origin arms and defence equipment.
  • Collaboration in nuclear energy will include life cycle support for the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) and the exploration of a second site for a nuclear power plant in India.
• Tourism and Visas: India announced a 30-day free e-tourist and group tourist visa for Russian citizens.
• Connectivity Initiatives:
  • Expanding connectivity through the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), the Northern Sea Route, and the Chennai-Vladivostok Corridors.
  • Collaboration on training Indian seafarers for operations in polar waters.
• Technology and Terrorism Concerns: Addressed the potential misuse of technologies like drones and social media in terrorism. 

Statements from Leaders

Both leaders emphasized the strength and historical steadiness of the India-Russia partnership, with India highlighting economic ties as a major takeaway and Russia emphasizing expanded economic cooperation and the high volume of bilateral trade.

Strategic and Global Context

The talks were closely watched globally amid efforts by the US to end the Ukraine conflict, and despite India's penalization for importing Russian oil. The Ukraine war was not directly mentioned in the joint statement, showcasing a focus on bilateral and strategic partnership.