The Prime Minister of India co-chaired the 22nd Annual Summit with the President of Russia in Moscow. This summit yielded several important outcomes and reaffirmed the strong partnership between the two nations.
Trade and Economic Partnership
One of the key outcomes of the summit was setting a bilateral trade target of USD 100 billion by 2030. Both countries agreed to promote bilateral settlements using their national currencies. Additionally, they decided to expand their cooperation in the nuclear, oil, and petrochemical sectors.
Transport and Connectivity
To enhance transport and connectivity, the summit emphasized increasing cargo turnover through projects like the North-South International Transport Corridor and the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor.
United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Reform
India and Russia called for comprehensive reform of the UNSC to make it more representative and effective. Both nations are committed to this cause and believe it is crucial for global stability.
Counter-Terrorism Efforts
Both countries urged the finalization and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. They also emphasized the need to implement UNGA and UNSC resolutions on countering terrorism and violent extremism.
Ukraine Crisis
India and Russia expressed support for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine crisis through dialogue and diplomacy. This stance reflects their commitment to maintaining global peace and stability.
Military Cooperation
The summit highlighted the importance of military cooperation, particularly joint manufacturing in India for the maintenance of Russian-origin arms and defense equipment. This is part of India’s Make-in-India program, which aims to boost domestic production capabilities.
Important Dimensions of India-Russia Relations
The Annual Summit between the Prime Minister of India and the President of Russia is the highest institutionalized dialogue mechanism in their strategic partnership. In 2010, their partnership was elevated to the level of “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”
International Organizations and Connectivity Projects
India and Russia collaborate in various international and multilateral organizations, including BRICS, SCO, G20, and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
Defence and Security Cooperation
India-Russia military-technical cooperation has evolved from a buyer-seller framework to joint research, development, and production of advanced defense technologies. Russia remains India’s top military supplier, accounting for 45% of total defense imports. Notable collaborations include the BrahMos Missile System, licensed production of SU-30 aircraft, and T-90 tanks.
Trade and Economic Relations
The summit revised targets for bilateral investment to USD 50 billion and bilateral trade to USD 30 billion by 2025. Bilateral investments had already surpassed the previous target of USD 30 billion in 2018, prompting this revision.
Nuclear Energy
India and Russia have a strong partnership in nuclear energy, as outlined in the 2014 Strategic Vision for strengthening cooperation in the peaceful uses of atomic energy. The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) in India is being built with Russian assistance.
Space Cooperation
The two countries cooperate in the peaceful uses of outer space. There is a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ISRO and ROSCOSMOS on Joint Activities in the field of Human Spaceflight Programme (Gaganyaan).
Science and Technology
India and Russia collaborate extensively in science and technology. Institutional mechanisms like the Integrated Long Term Programme (ILTP) and the Basic Science Cooperation Programme facilitate this cooperation.
Cultural Cooperation
There is a strong tradition of Indian studies in Russia, and Russian interest in Indian dance, music, yoga, and Ayurveda remains robust.
Challenges in India-Russia Relations
Defence Issues: India has gradually diversified its defense imports, reducing its dependence on Russia. This has led to a decline in orders from Russia.
Russia’s Apprehensions Over India’s Foreign Policy: Russian officials have criticized India’s participation in the Indo-Pacific and the Quad, viewing it as a move to contain China.
The USA Factor: Tensions between Russia and the USA affect India-Russia relations. Russia’s growing alliance with China in response to US policies poses challenges.
The China Factor: Russia’s closer ties with China, including military cooperation, strain its relations with India.
Way Forward
To strengthen their partnership, India and Russia should focus on common concerns and joint projects in third countries, like the Rooppur nuclear plant project in Bangladesh. Deepening scientific and technological relations is also essential. Additionally, India should strive to balance its relationships with Russia, China, and the USA to navigate the complex international landscape.
Conclusion
India and Russia must learn to navigate their relationship amidst bilateral, regional, and global challenges. Both nations seek to strengthen their positions in a rapidly changing international order.
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