The Indian Prime Minister embarked on a journey to Russia, marking a significant visit in the history of Indian diplomacy. With participation in the 20th India-Russia annual summit and the 5th meeting of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok. For the first time ever, an Indian Prime Minister visited the Russian Far East Region (Vladivostok), paving way for a more comprehensive and strategic partnership between the two nations.
A Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership
Both India and Russia reiterated their commitment towards exploring the full potential of their strategic partnership, emphasizing its special and privileged nature. The scope for this partnership spans across various sectors from economic cooperation to defence collaboration.
Russian Backing on J & K
Russia extended support to India’s decision on Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the amendments made were within the framework of the Indian Constitution. Both nations stressed on the primacy of international law and affirmed their commitment to the UN Charter principles, including non-interference in internal matters of member states.
Development of Russian Far East
India announced its initiative to extend a 1 billion line of credit for the development of the Russian Far East. The exploration of hydrocarbon reserves along the coast of Russia’s Far East holds particular interest for India. Furthermore, this engagement aligns with India’s “Act East” policy goal.</p> <h4>Establishment of a Maritime Route</h4> <p>India proposed the establishment of a maritime route linking Chennai and Vladivostok. This sea route is projected to aid India’s collaboration with Russia in building nuclear power plants at Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu, and expand India’s presence in the Indo-Pacific, particularly the contentious South China Sea region.</p> <table> <tr> <th>Fact</th> <th>Detail</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Current Bilateral Trade</td> <td>11 billion
Collaboration in Space
India and Russia are contemplating collaboration in the space sector. Russia has pledged support for training Indian astronauts for the manned space mission – the Gaganyaan project. Both nations have expressed concerns over the potential of an arms race in outer space and advocate for peaceful uses.
Economic Cooperation and Military Collaboration
Both countries set ambitious goals to increase their bilateral trade from the current 11 billion to30 billion by 2025. The leaders aim to create new technological and investment partnerships, especially in advanced high-tech areas and to eliminate trade barriers. Simultaneously, both nations are progressing on their programme on military and technical cooperation, undeterred by the US sanctions on Russia.
Cooperation in International Issues
Russia supported India’s bid for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council. Both nations condemned terrorism in all forms, urging international communities to unite against this menace. They affirmed their commitment to global non-proliferation with Russia strongly backing India’s membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
Additional areas of cooperation include peace in Afghanistan, an equal security architecture in Asia and Pacific, and India’s role in the Arctic Council.
Exercise TSENTR 2019
Exercise TSENTR 2019 is part of the annual series of large-scale exercises that constitute the Russian Armed Forces’ annual training cycle. The exercise aims to evolve drills of the participating armies and practicing them in the fight against international terrorism, ensuring military security in the strategic Central Asian region.
Last Modified: February 6, 2024