The United Nations (UN), the hub of international cooperation, has recently been a platform for crucial bilateral consultations between India and Russia. Held in New Delhi, these discussions were spurred by Russia’s upcoming presidency of the UN Security Council (UNSC) in February 2022.
Tensions Between Russia and Ukraine
These bilateral talks took place against the backdrop of escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. The potential eastward expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is primarily responsible for these strained relations. This geopolitical climate was further aggravated by the 21st India-Russia annual summit that also included a first-of-its-kind 2+2 ministerial dialogue between the foreign and defence ministers of both nations.
The Importance of Multilateralism
Both countries emphasized the urgent need to rejuvenate multilateralism, highlighting the central role played by the UN in global affairs. Russia warmly welcomed India’s election as a non-permanent member of the UNSC for a two-year term, owing to an overwhelming majority vote.
Reform in the United Nations Security Council
Russia also endorsed India’s bid for permanent membership at a reformed UNSC along with the Nuclear Suppliers Group. Supporting a comprehensive reform of the UNSC, both nations seek to reflect current global realities and enhance its representation, effectiveness, and efficiency in handling international peace and security issues.
BRICS Cooperation
Furthermore, both sides are committed to bolstering cooperation within the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) group. Russia commended India for its successful chairing of the BRICS in 2021, which included hosting the XIII BRICS Summit and adopting the New Delhi Declaration.
Role of New Development Bank
Both nations acknowledged the crucial role of the New Development Bank (NDB), particularly in addressing the development challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. They encouraged the NDB to finance more social infrastructure projects, especially those harnessing digital technologies.
Shanghai Cooperation Organization and G20 Format
India and Russia appreciated the accomplishments of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) over its two-decade operation and foresaw its potential for further interaction among its member states. The duo are also keen to cooperate within the G20 format, especially considering India’s upcoming presidency in 2023.
Protecting Global Commons
Both nations concur that the protection of global commons, including oceans, outer space, and information space, should be governed by principles of transparency, accessibility, and adherence to international law.
India’s Stand on Russia-Ukraine Tensions
At the UNSC meeting discussing Ukraine, India urged immediate de-escalation of the situation, consideration of all security interests, and peaceful resolution via ‘quiet diplomacy.’ India, along with Kenya and Gabon, abstained from voting on whether Ukraine’s situation would be debated. It reiterated support for the July 2020 ceasefire, the 2014 Minsk Agreement, and the Normandy Process.
Concerns over Indian Nationals in Ukraine
India expressed concerns over the safety of more than 20,000 Indian nationals residing in Ukraine amidst escalating tensions. While public talks led by the US and Russia have been tough, India has advocated for quiet diplomacy.
Reviving India-Russia Ties
Despite geopolitical constraints, India and Russia seek to revive their ties through renewed economic cooperation and mutual understanding of each other’s Indo-Pacific imperatives. The path to this revival, however, remains to be clearly outlined.