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India-Russia relations are a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy, characterised by strategic cooperation, mutual support, and deep historical ties. This enduring partnership encompasses strong strategic, economic, and defence collaborations. The 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit in 2024, the first India Russia meet since the Ukraine war, underscores the significance of their alliance. Additionally, Prime Minister Modi’s decision to visit Russia first in his third tenure, breaking the tradition of prioritising neighbouring countries, further highlights the importance of India-Russia relations.

India-Russia Relations and Evolving Global Geopolitics:

• Strategic Alignment: Despite global geopolitical shifts, India and Russia have maintained a strong strategic partnership.
  For example: Russia’s support for India’s bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council and its membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group underscores this alignment.
• Multilateral Cooperation: Both nations actively engage in multilateral forums such as the BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
  For example: Joint statements at BRICS summits addressing global economic and security issues reflect their collaborative efforts.
• Counterterrorism Efforts: Shared concerns about global terrorism have led to increased cooperation in counterterrorism initiatives.
  For example: The Joint Working Group on Counterterrorism between India and Russia facilitates regular dialogue and cooperation on counterterrorism strategies.
• Regional Stability: Collaboration in maintaining regional stability, particularly in Afghanistan and Central Asia, is a priority.
  For example: The Moscow Format Consultations on Afghanistan in which both India and Russia participate to promote peace and stability.
• Balancing Relations with Other Powers: India’s engagement with the US and Russia’s ties with China pose challenges, but both nations manage to balance these relations.
  For instance: Despite India’s growing strategic partnership with the US, the annual India-Russia Summit continues to bolster bilateral relations.

India-Russia Relations and Economic Partnership:

• Trade Targets: Ambitious targets for bilateral trade and investment highlight the economic partnership.
  For instance: The goal to increase bilateral trade to $30 billion and investment to $50 billion by 2025 reflects this commitment.
• Energy Cooperation: India-Russia relations thrive on a robust energy partnership, focusing on oil, gas, and nuclear energy collaboration, reinforcing strategic ties and mutual economic benefits.
  For example: Joint ventures in oil and gas exploration, and the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant project, exemplify this cooperation.
• Make in India Initiative: Encouraging Russian companies to invest in India’s manufacturing sector is a key focus.
  For example: The establishment of joint ventures under the Make in India initiative, such as the Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited for manufacturing AK-203 rifles in India.
• Bilateral Investment: Increasing bilateral investment in various sectors, including natural resources and technology, is crucial.
  For example: Indian companies are exploring investment opportunities in Russian coal, fertilisers, and minerals.
• Trade Agreements: Institutionalising mechanisms to facilitate trade and reduce barriers is essential.
  For instance: During the 2019 Annual summit, the India-Russia Business Dialogue was established to liberalise business travel and promote bilateral trade.

India-Russia Relations and Defence Cooperation:

• Strategic Defence Partnership: Long-standing defence ties have evolved into a strategic partnership.
  For example: The purchase of S-400 air defence systems despite US sanctions demonstrates this commitment.
• Joint Military Exercises: Regular joint military exercises enhance operational cooperation and readiness between the countries.
  For example: The Tri-Services exercise INDRA and joint naval exercises like Indra Navy illustrate this collaboration.
• Defence Technology and Production: Collaboration on joint research, development, and production of advanced defence systems is significant.
  For example: The BrahMos missile system and licensed production of SU-30 aircraft and T-90 tanks in India highlight this partnership.
• Counterterrorism Operations: Joint counterterrorism training and intelligence sharing are pivotal aspects of defence cooperation.
  For example: Participation in the biennial Joint Military Counter-Terrorist Command and Staff Exercise ‘Peace Mission’ showcases this effort.
• Defence Agreements: Agreements to strengthen defence cooperation and align with India’s “Make in India” program are crucial.
  For example: The manufacturing of Kamov 226 helicopters in India under the Make in India initiative exemplifies this strategy.

India-Russia relations remain robust and multifaceted, with significant developments in global geopolitics, economic partnerships, and defence cooperation. Despite challenges posed by global geopolitical shifts, both nations continue to deepen their strategic partnership, enhance economic ties, and strengthen defence collaboration. These efforts are crucial for maintaining regional stability, promoting mutual growth, and addressing emerging global challenges, ensuring that the India-Russia partnership remains a key pillar of India’s foreign policy.

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