Jaishankar reaffirms strong India-Russia ties, highlights growing partnership

New Delhi

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed the strong and strategic partnership between India and Russia, emphasizing that both nations prioritize strengthening their ties. Speaking at the Russia and India: Towards a New Bilateral Agenda conference via video message, he highlighted the deep historical bonds and mutual trust that continue to shape their relationship amid a changing global order.

Jaishankar noted that despite global shifts, India and Russia have consistently adapted, finding new avenues for cooperation that benefit both countries and contribute to regional and global stability. He stressed the importance of high-level exchanges and institutional mechanisms that reinforce their diplomatic engagement and commitment to each other’s core interests.

While traditional sectors such as energy, defense, and civil nuclear cooperation remain key pillars, Jaishankar pointed to emerging areas of collaboration, including trade, technology, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, connectivity, and the digital economy. He reiterated the ambitious target of increasing bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030.

The conference, co-hosted by the Indian Embassy in Russia and the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC), also featured remarks from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Lavrov confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin has accepted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation to visit India and preparations for the visit are underway.