Why did Prime Minister Narendra Modi choose Russia for his first bilateral visit after the start of NDA 3.0?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Moscow marks a pivotal moment in India-Russia relations, underscoring the enduring ties between the two nations amidst global geopolitical shifts. This bilateral visit, Modi’s first to Russia in nearly five years and the first since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, is emblematic of India’s strategic diplomacy under his leadership.
Historically, India and Russia have shared a robust relationship dating back to the Cold War era when the Soviet Union emerged as a crucial ally, particularly in defense cooperation. Today, despite global realignments, India remains committed to maintaining this relationship, refraining from condemning Russia’s actions in Ukraine and advocating instead for diplomatic resolutions—a stance that highlights India’s nuanced diplomatic approach amid complex international dynamics.
Historically, India’s relationship with Russia dates back to the Cold War era when the Soviet Union was a crucial ally, particularly in defense cooperation amid global geopolitical tensions. Even today, India’s reluctance to denounce Russia’s actions in Ukraine reflects its steadfast adherence to diplomatic channels for conflict resolution, illustrating its delicate diplomatic balancing act.
A notable facet of Modi’s visit is the personal rapport between him and President Putin, having met frequently over the past decade. Putin warmly welcomed Modi to his residence in Novo-Ogaryovo, emphasizing their longstanding friendship and mutual respect. This camaraderie has underpinned bilateral ties, with Putin acknowledging Modi’s leadership in safeguarding India’s national security interests—a sentiment reciprocated by Modi in praising Putin’s role in bolstering Indo-Russian relations over the years.
The decision to prioritize Russia for Modi’s first bilateral visit of his current term underscores the strategic depth India attaches to its relationship with Moscow. The elevation of their partnership to a “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership” during Putin’s 2020 visit to India underscores the strategic alignment between the two nations. This departure from Modi’s tradition of initial visits to neighboring countries highlights India’s intent to consolidate ties with a key global partner.
Strategically, Russia remains a pivotal supplier of defense equipment to India, fulfilling a substantial portion of its defense needs despite India’s expanding engagements with other countries like the United States, France, and Israel. Moreover, both nations collaborate closely in nuclear energy and space exploration, while India’s resistance to Western sanctions on Russian oil further solidifies economic cooperation, exemplified by bilateral trade volumes reaching $65.7 billion in the financial year 2023-24.
During the summit, Modi and Putin are expected to deliberate on a broad economic agenda encompassing energy, trade diversification, and agricultural cooperation. Notably, discussions will also focus on addressing the Ukraine conflict through diplomatic means, aligning with India’s consistent advocacy for peaceful resolutions on the global stage.
Looking ahead, India aims to strengthen bilateral trade ties, rectify trade imbalances, and explore new avenues in digital technology and scientific research collaboration with Russia. Initiatives such as the International North–South Transport Corridor and the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor underscore India’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and economic integration with Russia.
Furthermore, both leaders will deliberate on expanding cooperation in scientific research and technological innovation, aiming to yield tangible outcomes that benefit both nations. India’s engagement with Russia extends beyond bilateral ties to encompass multilateral forums such as BRICS, SCO, and the United Nations, underscoring their shared commitment to global stability and economic cooperation.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Russia reaffirms the depth and resilience of the Indo-Russian strategic partnership. As India navigates complex global dynamics, its engagement with Russia remains pivotal, driven by shared interests and a long-standing commitment to mutual growth and stability. The outcomes of this summit are expected to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across multiple domains, positioning India and Russia as indispensable partners in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
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