India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, currently on a diplomatic mission to Russia, highlighted the enduring strength of the Indo-Russian relationship. Emphasizing the foundation of "strategic convergence and geopolitical interests," Jaishankar expressed satisfaction with the robust and steady nature of the ties between the two nations.
During his five-day visit, discussions centered on various aspects of political cooperation, covering international organizations such as BRICS and the upcoming Russian presidency in the SCO. The minister underscored the importance of the bilateral relationship, especially in economic terms, citing the remarkable milestone of surpassing a $50 billion turnover last year, a figure expected to increase this year.
Addressing the balance in trade, Jaishankar stressed the sustainability and fairness of market access. Notably, he mentioned the successful talks with Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, co-chair of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission, highlighting the significance of the trade being more balanced.
The minister shed light on their discussions about cooperation in the Russian Far East, anticipating the participation of a Far East delegation in a forthcoming conference in India. Long-term arrangements for trade, particularly in energy, fertilizers, and cooking coal, were a focal point, with an emphasis on the need for a bilateral investment treaty.
Jaishankar mentioned the strides in the energy sector, including substantial Indian investments in Russian oil and gas, along with advancements in the Kudankulam nuclear power project. The International North-South Transport Corridor and various connectivity initiatives, such as the polar route and the Chennai to Vladivostok link, were also part of the talks.
On the tourism front, the minister expressed a desire to see more Russian tourists in India, highlighting the increase in weekly flights and openness to further expansion. The discussions weren't confined to bilateral matters, extending to global strategic concerns like the situations in Ukraine and Gaza, Indo-Pacific dynamics, ASEAN, Afghanistan, and UN-related matters. The comprehensive nature of the talks reflected the depth and breadth of the enduring Indo-Russian partnership.
(With Agency Inputs)
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